My dad was an antique collector of modest means, and began giving his kids some of his favorites a few years ago, after being diagnosed with Alzheimer's. He gave me this captain's desk, which I grew up with, and which he now doesn't recognize or remember anymore, so I don't know many details about it. I believe it's 19th century, and is probably worth a little money, but I mostly appreciate it for sentimental value.However, the leather writing surface is in bad shape (see photos) and I don't know how to even begin fixing it. I can't afford to get an antique restoration expert, and although I don't want to damage it, I'm not too concerned about whether it winds up looking exactly as it would have when it was made, I just want it to look decent.Questions I have include:Do I need to remove the existing (old, thin, hardened) leather, or is it possible to restore it?If the former, how do I get the old stuff off without damaging anything?Is there anything I should do to the wood after getting off the old leather but before putting on new leather?How would I get appropriate leather to match this piece, and how would I stick it on there? I'm particularly concerned with the edge of any new leather creating a non-flush surface that will look bad and invite more peeling.Any suggestions would be appreciated. via /r/DIY http://ift.tt/2nRjXJq
