The Veneer Press Conservation Project

Posted on 13th November 2024

Over summer, students and tutors from the metalwork and furniture conservation programs undertook the conservation of a Schubert's Veneer Press. The press had spent the last 15 years exposed to the elements in a field. Prior to this, it served for decades at the renowned Barnsley workshops, where it helped train generations of skilled furniture makers. Despite significant rust and corrosion, the team set out to restore the press to working condition so it could once again serve as an educational tool for future furniture makers.

The project was completed over three phases, each one requiring technical skill, specialist materials and teamwork:

Phase 1: Cleaning and De-corroding

The restoration began with an intense de-corrosion process led by metalwork conservation students. Due to years of exposure, the metal elements were heavily rusted and required deep cleaning. Using a grit-blast pot with a 1.5-bag capacity, the students carefully removed rust and corrosion while preserving the integrity of the original metal. The goal was to achieve a clean surface that would bond well with the new coating and enhance its durability.

To ensure a thorough job, the team followed ISO SA 2½ standards, a level of cleanliness typically used for heavy-duty applications. This high standard provided a solid foundation for the coating to adhere properly, extending the press's lifespan and preparing it for regular use in the Furniture Department.

Phase 2: Choosing and Applying the Coating

With the surface prepared, the next step was selecting and applying a new paint system. After consulting both departments, the team chose an epoxy-based system known for its strength and longevity. This system included a primer and topcoat but decided against a mid-layer since the press wouldn't be used in extreme conditions. In a nod to Edward James the team chose a bold shade of purple in true West Dean style. Applying the paint was a collaborative effort, with students from both furniture and metalwork departments pitching in to ensure an even, professional finish.

Phase 3: Assembly and Training

Once painted, it was time to reassemble the press. Using a hydraulic pallet lift, the team carefully moved and pieced together the press’s heavy components. Now fully operational, the veneer press is already being used in the Furniture Department. Furniture students are now trained in using the press and FdA first year students are already using the press for their first project of designing and making a table. The hands-on experience with this historic tool provides students with a unique opportunity to learn different techniques and appreciate traditional furniture-making equipment.

The veneer press conservation project was about more than restoring an old tool. This press has been a part of many projects over the years, helping to build skills for countless furniture makers and thanks to the hard work of today’s students and faculty, it’s ready to keep serving new generations. This project highlights the role of conservation in education and the lasting value of craftsmanship. Through this effort, the furniture and metalwork department have given a historic tool a fresh purpose, allowing students to work with a piece of the past as they build their own skills.

Credit to Kate Jennings, Daniel Pateman, Joe Orchard and furniture & metalwork students who worked on the press.