This antique parlor table was a cheap driveway sale find.
I loved its beautiful lines and great condition — until I realized one leg was barely attached. The table wobbled precariously. Time to rescue this wonder.
Step One: Disassembly
Once the table was flipped, the problem was obvious. One of the legs was missing a brace, leaving it floppy.
It was just a matter of a few screws to break this table down into what we’d call modern day flatpack. It’s like antique IKEA!
It even came with instructions like flatpack furniture! (I can assure you the first builder did NOT use glue as advised!) The label also told me about the Ohio furniture maker and, based on research, the possible period (around 1900).
Step Two: Repairs
First, I had to reglue some of the wood alongside where the loose leg inserts. Over time, the wobble had cracked the nearby wood. Here it is, clamped and braced to set correctly.
Next, I used wood filler to build up the part of the leg that inserts into the slot. Since the wiggle had worn down the edges over time, a repair was necessary to get a snug fit.
Step Three: The Brace
Most importantly, I had to create a replacement brace for the missing one. Using the existing brace as a pattern, I traced it onto a new piece of wood. Then I cut the board down to size with a jigsaw.
The slot in which to insert the leg is meant to be slanted a bit. So I trimmed it at an angle using chisels.
Voilà!
Repaired leg back in place with a new brace! Now I just need to stain the brace to match and secure it with screws. Check back next week to see how this table gets “back on its feet.”
Follow me on Instagram (@serendipitysequelsmn) and view available items on my Artisan Markets Furniture online storefront: https://theartisanmarketsfurniture.com/seller-collection/serendipity-sequels/
