This project involved a complete refinish of an antique chest of drawers in the Federal/Hepplewhite tradition. The piece features solid hardwood construction in a 2-over-3 drawer configuration, bracket feet with a shaped apron, original cast brass oval bail pulls, and crossbanded stringing inlay in a contrasting light wood framing each drawer face, with a diamond inlay accent centered on each drawer. The client brought the piece to our Fort Collins shop for a full refinish. The existing finish had degraded to the point where it was obscuring the natural figure and warmth of the wood rather than enhancing it. The process involved complete stripping of the existing finish down to bare wood, thorough surface preparation to ensure full penetration of subsequent coats, careful color development to match the natural warmth of the wood's underlying tone, and a multi-step topcoat application to achieve the depth and clarity appropriate to a period antique. Particular care was given to the stringing inlay during stripping and surface preparation to preserve the integrity of the light-wood contrast lines, which are a defining decorative element of Federal-period cabinetwork. The original brass hardware was cleaned and polished, retaining its antique character throughout. The completed piece demonstrates the depth of figure available in well-seasoned hardwood when the finish is built correctly from bare wood - a result not achievable through surface application alone. G. Michaels Restoration has provided furniture restoration, refinishing, and repair services in Fort Collins and the greater Northern Colorado region since 1985. We work with private clients, interior designers, estate clients, and historic preservation projects across Fort Collins and Denver metro. Check us here: https://gmrestores.com/antique-furniture-restoration-projects-fort-collins