Can the height mechanism be oiled safely?

You can lubricate the central spindle to stop grinding noises. A light application of machine oil or graphite powder works well on cast iron threads. Wipe away any excess immediately. Old iron attracts dust, and a sticky residue will bind the thread further.

My grandfather gave me his old wooden swivel chair and the leather is cracked right through, so should I get it reupholstered or leave it alone?

A completely split seat provides no support and will eventually damage the horsehair stuffing beneath. Having a professional replace the leather keeps the chair functional. Keep the original brass studs if they are salvageable. A good restorer can colour-match new hide to suit the aged timber frame, preserving the overall character of the piece.

What wood is an antique captain's chair?

Most provincial examples use a mixture of native timbers. Elm provides a strong, wide plank for the saddle seat, while beech or ash works better for the turned legs and spindles. High-end models for wealthy studies sometimes feature solid mahogany or oak throughout. The mixed-wood versions were usually stained or polished to give a uniform appearance.

I have an old library chair with wheels that keep falling off the bottom of the legs every time I try to roll it backwards, how are they meant to stay in?

Traditional brass castors fit onto the leg via a cup or a central screw peg. If the timber shrinks over time, the fitting becomes loose and drops out when lifted. A brass cup castor needs its lateral securing screws tightened. If the screw holes are worn smooth, a restorer will plug the holes with small timber dowels and drill fresh pilot holes. Don't glue the metal directly to the wood. The joint needs to allow for seasonal movement.

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Arts & Crafts Desk Chairs

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Designed to provide support during long hours of writing or reading, an antique desk chair typically features a shaped wooden seat or padded upholstery set on a robust frame, often incorporating a swivel or tilt mechanism in later models.