The Furniture Bible

October 15, 2014

Everyone has that one piece of furniture that needs help, and this book delivers. Pourny is something of a furniture superstar, having some very famous clients and appearing on Martha Stewart's TV shows. Renzi has authored many books on interior design and architecture. The knowledge and skill of the authors shines through, with every part of the work coming together well. Encyclopedic in coverage, the volume addresses furniture history, purchase, restoration, and repair. Organization is logical and topics are deftly illustrated and defined. A particularly compelling chapter evaluates how best to locate antique furniture. Resurfacing and restoring finish is highly detailed, with spot repairs included. The section on how to make your own polishes, cleaners, and pigments is invaluable. Reupholstery, however, is not well covered, so readers will want to look at Amanda Brown's Spruce for that specialization. VERDICT This fantastic go-to source for furniture care belongs in any public library and will be of help to anyone looking to refinish an antique or elevate a modern piece of furniture to new elegance.

Copyright 2014 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from October 6, 2014
Furniture restoration artisan Pourny, who restored George Washington’s desk, has written a thorough and practical guide for the furniture expert as well as for the novice restorer. Beginning his handbook with a short and richly illustrated discussion of furniture evolution and history, Pourny explains finishes, construction techniques, and the types of hardware used in each period. His description of finishes and finishing techniques is especially comprehensive. If you ever want to make your own shellac, the recipe is here. Other techniques—gilding, waxing, oiling, and painting—are also explained clearly and in detail. Pourny particularly recommends ceruse, a wax technique that is easy to do and offers beautiful results. He guides readers from professional to DIYers with tips on finding pieces worth restoration, suggesting sources from flea markets to high-end galleries depending on budget. Once a piece of furniture is acquired, Pourny explains how to assess damage, make repairs, and complete a final finish. A strong section on furniture care and cleaning argues that using the right methods will prolong the life of furniture. This guide will find a wide audience among those who simply want to learn about and appreciate good furniture, as well as those who are more hands-on.