Restorers & Craftsmen
I am looking for someone to re-gild my mirror.
There are two types of gilding used on mirrors: oil gilding using a type of glue based on linseed oil with gold leaf laid on with a gilder's knife, tip and cushion; or water gilding, a more intricate process which consists of applying a series of coats of gesso, layers of bole ( a refined clay in a variety of colours), on top of which gold leaf is applied, then a protective coat of ormolu. You might wish to see samples of each type before you decide how you would like your mirror to be refinished. Specialists in gilding include the following companies: E & A Wates, Bourlet, Titian Studios.
I live in a flat within a listed building in central London. The path to the front entrance to the building has original tiling leading to the front door. Most of the tiles are starting to chip away or fall apart and I would like to replace them. Can you point me in the right direction of a specialist?
Craven Dunnill Jackfield are specialists in geometric Victorian tiles, which are part of Britain's heritage. They were used originally to adorn medieval churches and monasteries, but can also be found on front paths all over the country. Craven Dunnill Jackfield are expert at manufacturing hand made encaustic and geometric floor tiles and can match existing or create new patterns.
I am renovating an oak needlework cabinet. It’s covered in the original silk fabric with a braid trim. The trim is still in good shape on the lid but missing round the edge of the box. Where can I source new braid?
If you are looking for a small amount of braid it might be best to visit either John Lewis or Peter Jones; both have good curtain departments with a huge selection of trimmings. If you are after a specialist manufacturer, we suggest you try either Brian Turner Trimmings (manufacturers of furnishing trimmings to Her Majesty the Queen), Henry Newbery & Co or Wendy Cushing Passementerie .
I am looking to replace broken Art Deco tiles on a fireplace. Can you suggest any suppliers ?
Craven Dunnill Jackfield are specialists in restoration projects, working closely with architects, conservators and companies such as the National Trust and English Heritage. Their heritage range includes a wide choice of Victorian, Art Nouveau and striking geometric Art Deco wall tiles, as well as encaustic and geometric floor tiles. They offer a colour matching service for customers wishing to restore an original feature, but will also reproduce other designs to match originals. Just contact them for a quotation - all they need is an image of the pattern. An actual sample would be needed for manufacture.
Where can I get hold of cane to repair my old dining chairs?
J A Milton Upholstery Supplies has a very comprehensive range of DIY upholstery materials for sale by mail order or online. They stock four sizes of weaving cane for chairs, as well as natural and artificial rush, and useful handbooks. Visit their website.
