Art Deco Vanity

1920s-30s maple vanity. Don't know much else about it. Any ideas? Do you think I should get it refinished?

 

I think you should get it refinished if you want it to look really nice
If you are asking about selling As Is or getting it refinished to sell...I do not know the best answer.

 

Also, I was cleaning it and noticed that it looked like finish was coming off with soapy water. I may have to do it myself is that a terrible idea?

 

Again, it's only me here...I would say it is not a bad idea IF you know what you're doing.

 

I have no idea what I am doing, and yes, probably a terrible idea, but still might do it.

 

If it is your desire to see this through, I am sure you will be successful. Therefore, it is still not a BAD idea to do it yourself, you just have to be realistic about your expectations. GO FOR IT! You obviously have a bunch of cheerleaders around here, wishing you nothing but the best...regardless.

 

What are you cleaning with?
You should be using a damp rag to wipe dirt off, not a soaking wet rag.
Or an orange oil of some kind. Again with a damp rag.

When you say finish, what do you mean?
It looks like it might be painted - is that what is coming off?

If you have never refinished something, you should probably start with something like a small table.
This is going to be a project if you intend to strip, re-stain and then wax/clear coat/? what ever you decide to seal with.

@verybrad @Ghopper1924 @Jeff Drum

 

Those tagged should chime in soon!!!

 

Yeah I think that might be paint or stain I can’t tell

 

Maybe English? The form looks 30s but the color makes me think later. Probably not worth refinishing. Would be tempted to do something that utilizes paint with the natural finish of the wood as contrast. Maybe paint the top surfaces, drawer handles, and feet black. Would also need some black accents on the mirror frame somewhere.

 

A lot of it was just dirt. I know this piece is at least 40 years old, not sure of origin though.

 

Thinking of making it usable for my daughter

 

a capital idea...

 

I'm thinking this might be a good canidate for painting.


Other ideas
https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=Painted+art+deco+vanity&FORM=HDRSC2

 

A flat white would go with her room

 

Do you have any examples?

 

It's pretty typical of English ones. The shape is very nice, but I don't think youi'd get any decent wood finish on it. Again, it's one I'd paint.

 

Thinking 1940s on this. Great advice from Cluttered and Verybrad. Since the $ value of the dresser is so low, this might be a good "learning piece" for you, especially if you decide to go for the wood restoration + paint or even complete paint route like in Cluttered's photo (above). A handsome example. I have to believe your daughter would love it.

 

Updated, started removing varnish