Woodworking Techniques Restoring an Antique Rocking Chair

Bring new life to a tired antique. Here are my steps to restoring an old rocking chair

- Willie Sandry

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, I suppose. Some people see a forlorn rocker and put it out on the curb with a “Free” sign on it. That’s how we came upon this antique Kingcraft rocking chair, although I could instantly see past a few surface blemishes. Underneath the tattered original leather upholstery c. 1910, was a surprisingly sturdy chair frame. Sure, the corbels popped loose as they often do, but a quick inspection revealed good bones and a nice original finish. You’d be amazed by how many barn finds are out there if you just keep your eyes open.

Kingcraft was produced by the Oregon Chair Company and was a Northwest competitor of Gustav Stickley and Charles Limbert. Many of their chairs in particular were heavily influenced by the L&LG Stickley designs (if not a direct copy). The Portland, OR based company imported quartersawn white oak largely from Japan to build a full line of Arts & Crafts style furniture. I’ve restored three Kingcraft rockers identical to this one, and each had the original spring deck in excellent condition. Here’s my restoration process:

1 Repair & Wax