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This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was retired in August 2007. It is being provided by “Sew What’s Up,” which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: MaryW
Date: 05-19-2003, 07:35 AM (1 of 12)
Hi everyone. Does anyone know anything about antiques?

I bought an old coffee grinder and it is rusty and dirty. Anyone know how I can clean it up and make it look nice? The paint is peeling and it's rusty.

I also have an old doll I would like to dress. How can I tell how old she is?
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
From: Magot
Date: 05-19-2003, 09:56 AM (2 of 12)
Are you plannng on using the coffee grinder or is it just for decoration?
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us
Cells a Speciality
DNA to order.
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002
Total posts: 3626
From: MaryW
Date: 05-19-2003, 11:45 AM (3 of 12)
Just for decoration. :bluesmile
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
From: Magot
Date: 05-19-2003, 11:52 AM (4 of 12)
I assume if it is rusty it is the old cast iron and painted variety - doesn't that kinda imply wire wool, elbow grease, rust inhibitor and gloss paint? Much the same as doing cast iron garden furniture? Don't quote me as an expert, I've never done this you understand:bluewink:
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us
Cells a Speciality
DNA to order.
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002
Total posts: 3626
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 05-19-2003, 08:02 PM (5 of 12)
Mary,
Sears used to carry a paint guaranteed to cover rust.. in brush on and spray..:bg: :bg:
Sew With Love
Libby
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002
Total posts: 2022
From: craftyboi
Date: 05-19-2003, 08:23 PM (6 of 12)
hi mary........when i found my old treadle it was rusted and locked up..........i used liquid wrench(that's the name).......and wd40........the liquid wrench really took off the rust and helped unlock the movement..........now this little machine is the best i have............it is 112 years old and yes it is the best little quilting machine i've ever used.........good luck with the coffee grinder.......donny
User: craftyboi
Member since: 10-04-2002
Total posts: 26
From: MissMinx
Date: 05-20-2003, 08:33 AM (7 of 12)
Magot, what you said is right, I’ve done it years ago and it’s the only way to go. I would never cover rust with paint, as I’ve never heard of anything that can resist rust over time… even with all the current progress. And yes, I swear by WD40, I use it for everything – sticky hinges, stiff locks, squeaks, creaks and many more other applications… :bluewink:
User: MissMinx
Member since: 02-14-2003
Total posts: 140
From: Magot
Date: 05-20-2003, 10:56 AM (8 of 12)
There is always the added advantage of spraying a little WB40 behinds the ears before hubby comes home...If I had "new car smell" perfume I'd be irristable!:bg: :bg:
love and kisses, Jan
Guts-R-Us
Cells a Speciality
DNA to order.
User: Magot
Member since: 12-22-2002
Total posts: 3626
From: MaryW
Date: 05-20-2003, 11:02 AM (9 of 12)
ROFLMAO!!!
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
From: MaryW
Date: 05-20-2003, 11:03 AM (10 of 12)
Thanks craftyboi, I'll try that.

As for you other two, hmmmm. :bluewink:
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
From: Reta J
Date: 05-20-2003, 08:25 PM (11 of 12)
a woman needs 2 things: WD40 and duct tape....WD40 for things that don't move but should and duct tape for things that are moving and shouldn't.

As for the rust problem, if you are keeping it, and don't care about reducing the value of the item, then clean it. However, some antiques that are cleaned or refinished will lose value. You have to make that decision. We have a collectibles and antique store on line and we do not clean or refinish any thing, we knock the dust off but leave tarnish, patina and rust on. We let the buyer make that decision.

There is a product at the hardware store called Marine Gel (i think) It will remove rust from most surfaces. Check with a hardware store, then check lable to see if you want to use it. Some rust removers are very caustic. However, if you want a safer, but uses more elbow grease... buy some CocaCola, not pepsi or off brands, Coke has more acids. Use a fine, very fine, steel wool pad dipped in the coke and rub til rust is off, keep re-dipping often. Do this only on the metal part, don't let the coke get on the wood. If it does, wipe immediatley.

As for the doll, is the doll marked? There might be a mark on back of head just above neck or on neck or on back. There might be letters with the number, just letters or just numbers. There are some great books on antique dolls at the library. I can't promise anything but if you would like to send us a pic, hubby and I might be able to research it. You have my e-mail addy.

Hope this helps,
Sewing Forever
Housework Whenever
Reta J
User: Reta J
Member since: 01-30-2002
Total posts: 136
From: MissMinx
Date: 05-21-2003, 06:16 AM (12 of 12)
Absolutely perfect, Reta J!
As for coke, I've heard you have to soak things in it, but watch carefully, as it may eat it all away!

And people drink that stuff??? :shock: :sick: :bluesad:
User: MissMinx
Member since: 02-14-2003
Total posts: 140
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