Assembly, Hardware Restoration, and Detailing

 

In order to replicate what the maker intended, the detailing that went into the making of a piano originally, needs to be reproduced.  On Steinways, for example, leather buttons were used where boards contacted each other.  Under the lid, there are leather pads that prevent the finished surfaces from getting scarred when the lid is closed.  These details are just part of what is applied to the piano as it is re-assembled.  

On many traditional pianos the brass hardware was polished to a satin or brushed sheen.  This look goes well with the qualities of a formal rubbed finish.  The brass hardware is cleaned and polished to this satin sheen before having a tarnish resistant lacquer applied. 

The felts are replaced on the fallboard, lid lock board and anywhere wood parts are attached to each other.   The music desk guide is lined with bushing cloth which will wear well for many years.  Bellymen felt is replaced where the plate contacts the stretcher.

Finally, the underside of the piano is cleaned and sealed before delivery.  When the piano is delivered from my shop, the restoration is completely done. The back and undersides of all parts are cleaned and finished. The finish is cured, the plate, action, strings, and soundboard have all been protected to ensure the piano not only looks wonderful, it will sound and play well too. There is not a detail that is forgotten.

Leather Buttons

Polish Hardware

Lyre Detailing, new bushings and felts.

Pedal Assembly

Bellyman Felt


Go see pictures of the final results: The Before and After Page

Or Jump to any Step:

Preparation   Proper Protection Finish Removal  Cabinet and Veneer Repair
  Wood Colorants Pore Filler Sealer & Topcoats

Color Balancing

Building the Finish

Drying & Curing

Rubbing Process

Hardware, Assembly, & Detailing

 

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