I have a Heywood-Wakefield vanity that needs to be refinished. I have made too many moves with bad movers -- so I've got scratches and gashes. The piece is in his trademark champagne finish which appears difficult to replicate. Does anyone have any suggestions regarding a good, reputable dealer in the Washington metropolitan area? Also, I want to replace the mirror. Will it matter if I replace or resilver and does that devalue the piece? I'd love for the vanity to be better functioning so my reflection is less blurred.

-- Gabrielle Cassell Lange (Glange@nea.org), May 22, 2000

Answers

My brother is a very good refinisher, but he lives here in Phoenix arizona, he can do amazing work, and yes, I'm pretty sure if you re- do the mirror it will devalue the piece. Also, if someone sands the thing down to a new piece it will devalue it, his number is (602)569- 0811, he will give you any info you want, he's honest, and does beatiful work, but in Az, he might be able to help you at least know where to look. Tell him Barbara, (his sister) gave you this number.

-- Barb e. (Suesuesbeo@aol.com), July 09, 2000.

I would recommend City Barn Antiques in New York. They are absolutely the best if you want a perfect finish and to have it look as authentic as possible. They are usually at the Deco Show here in DC.

-- k rinne (kwrinne@yahoo.com), May 10, 2004.