I have been restoring an English solid oak desk (circa 1910 - 1920). I have
fixed up a couple of structural problems and broken struts.
Looking for advice on fixing up the finish (mainly scratches), mainly on the
legs and the front of the drawers. I assumed it was shellac but when I
rubbed it with methylated spirit nothing happened. I thought it would start
to dissolve. Is it just that it's too hard after all this time? Could it be
some sort of varnish? Should I be fine sanding it?
Grateful for any suggestions.
TIA
OzSawdust