Re: ADVICE NEEDED IN REPAIR

["Paul A. Lehman" <palehman@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Sam wrote:
snip
> Only
> one problem: There is a large crack running dead center on the base plate
> due to shrinkage. I don't want to fill it, and since the piece is laminated
> several ways I can't clamp it back together. I could cut a strip out of the
> middle and replace it with a new piece I guess, but would need it to match
> the surroundings as close as possible. I don't want to strip and refinish
> this, as the original finish is preferred.

Now that is a problem, particularly since you don't want to strip
and refinish. When I have encountered similar situations in the
past I have done a variety of fixes, but all ended with
refinishing. You don't mention if this is just a cosmetic problem
or a structural failure problem.

Here are two quick thoughts that come to mind toward fixing.

If you have a very good router and a very steady hand, route a
thin band down the crack just to the depth of a strip of veneer.
Fill the crack, pre-finish the veneer and glue it into place. 

A second option: get a long bit and drill a hole (or two or
three) through the full width of the baseboard, from one side
edge, through the crack, to the other side edge. Install a long
bolt with an end-capped nut (maybe even counter-sink head and
nut). Tighten until crack is closed. If you can find the nut and
bolt in brass, it may end up looking as if it were always there.
If counter-sunk, plug the holes with pre-finished wood plugs.

A third option would be to sell it to me for $50 since its
damaged goods.
;>) :>)

I'll ponder this some more for other ideas.
Maybe other list members have other options?

Paul A. Lehman