Chipped piano repair

I have a piano (dark cherry color) that has been chipped pretty thinly about 1.5 X 0.5 sq. inches in the corner. I was able to recover about 80% of the chipped off pieces that I can utilize to make the repair.

What's the best way to repair this chip? I was thinking maybe I can use a glue to attach the recovered piece and use a wood filler for the rest and smooth it out somehow.

Any advice would greatly be appreciated. I don't expect this repair to be perfect, but I don't want to hack it, either.

Thank you.

 

I have noticed that quite a few folks have read your question and NO answers. It is difficult to see in my mind exactly the scope of the problem, and just how PERFECT you want the repair. I would suggest seeking out a QUAITY SMALL FURNITURE maker or cabnet shop for advise. You might even call a piano store and ask who they use for their repairs.

If this is a quality piano I would not suggest trying to piece the pieces back together and using wood filler. GET A PRO'S ADVISE FIRST.

You probably have already thought of this, but just in case that's what I would recommend.

Without seeing the chip I can only suggest the above.

I wish you well,


Dale
Indy

 

Thank you for your suggestion. I'll try to seek a professional's advice.

I realize that it's difficult to picture how bad the chip is from my description. It's actually not too bad. Basically, a thin layer(?) of wood about 1.5 inches by 0.5 inches in size came off in the corner. I was able to salvage one piece that will cover about 80% of the damage.

I guess what I would like suggestions on is
1) How do I attach the salvaged piece back on? Glue or wood filler?
2) Is there a better way than to use a wood filler for the rest of the damaged area?
3) How do I sand and finish the repair without damaging the surrounding areas?

 

I do a lot of furniture making and have found GOOD OLD ELMER'S WHITE GLUE very good. I use their YELLOW GLUE if around water.

Why not try a test, take some clear tape and tape the piece you have in place to get a good idea how it is going to look. Stand back a few feet and check it out. If you do decide to glue the piece or pieces back onto the piano be sure to wipe off with a DAMP cloth, NOT dripping wet cloth any glue that seeps out. You will need to clamp or hold the pieces in place for a few minutes too. Personally I would NOT try some of the super glues, but then again some may find it works good for them. Maybe you can take some stain and color the spot remaining and find that you can live with such. I am NOT a fan of wood putty in a repair like yours, now if you are ARTY you might be able to play around with some paints and do a good job of making the spot disappear. As far as sanding, well THAT'S A TOUGH ONE. This is where a pro needs to give you advise after they have viewed the piano.

Dale
Indy