Simple DRESSER restoration that got way too complicated 😬

This dresser was made around 1905-1920. It is made of birch and pine. Not very rare, but still valuable, because of its nice neoclassic design.
In this video I will show how to tackle unexpected problems, while restoring the dresser.
My favorite tools:
Makita plunge saw and guide rail: amzn.to/3fmTaoI
Makita router: amzn.to/3BMRDzQ
Makita router guide adapter: amzn.to/3SeGONS
Kärcher steam cleaner: amzn.to/3jltvLf
Bessey edge clamps: amzn.to/3A6i7K3
Dovetail jig: amzn.to/2VeM7Vw
Workshop vacuum: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
Random orbital sander: amzn.to/3A925PK
Oscillating Spindle Sander amzn.to/3lq9t4X
Camera: amzn.to/3e5CG0V
Led goggles: amzn.to/3we7mq1
Protective shield: amzn.to/3Pnthmj
T-shirts and other stuff:
at-store-25.creator-spring.com/
My music channel:
/ totucool
AT Restoration Plus channel: / @atrestorationplus
Title: Simple DRESSER restoration that got way too complicated
#howto #howtorestore

[@Jaijay35]

Being a woodworker myself I am very glad you have an intern, you need to pass on your knowledge and skill onto the younger generation so it doesn't get lost because you are an outstanding craftsman. Well done.

[@lameesahmad9166]

I agree wholeheartedly with you. When researching my family tree I discovered the system put in place in England during the 16th to the 19th century for the nurturing of future generations of craftsmen. From the age of 14 teenagers were taken as apprentices for a craft. Each craft had a guild and the guild strictly controlled how many apprentices were trained for each craft and the quality of the teaching for each apprentice. There were tests and examinations throughout the period of training which lasted 7 years. At the end of that time period if the apprentice was considered fully qualified in his trade the municipal council of the city gave them a certificate which showed that they had earned the keys to the city. By this time the newly qualified craftsman was 21 years old. This is the origin of the tradition of getting a key when you are 21. But unlike the very well publicized giving the keys to the city as a token to a prominent and auspicious person the giving of the keys to a craftsman had a far more important and valuable meaning. When a craftsman received the keys to the city it meant that they would be able to open their own business for their trade. I t also meant that before that time they were not considered a citizen of the city but the certificate that they were awarded with meant that not only were they able to own their own business but that they were also for the first time able to legally purchase their own property. When researching my family history this was very important because at this time the new craftsman would also be able to approach the parents of a girl they wished to marry for permission to wed. With dignity they could show her parents that they had the means to not only support their daughter but also any children who came from the marriage. I was interested to know that in England every type of business no matter how small or great was controlled by a guild. This was true from fish sellers and even mat makers to gold smiths the guilds controlled the local economy. What I found intimidating about this system though was that for the everyday worker this meant that if they qualified in a specific town they had to stay there. If they moved to another city no matter how skilled they were they would not be considered qualified in their trade at all and they would once again have to start another 7 years apprenticeship until they could have a legal business in the town. They also would not be allowed to purchase their own property either and would have to rent. But what is extremely worrying today is it is very difficult for young people to get apprenticeships which means that in the future skilled artisans will become less and less. This means that the skills of AT will become rarer and rarer. Thank you Sir for taking care to nurture the next generations to eventually continue this wonderful craftsman"s journey.

[@neilchisholm8376]

An intern suggests that they are not paid, I hope that they are more of an apprentice so that they do get paid some thing even if it is a proportion of the profits of the item they worked on. That will provide both incentive and encouragement.

[@jilly314]

@@lameesahmad9166 thanks for that history 🙂

[@venetianstudios5171]

@@lameesahmad9166 An excellent history lesson. I was unaware of some of these details, but as a trades person myself (in Canada) in a very specialized field, unfortunately it's rare that I see excellent work from other trades. Partly because they seem to just not care as part of a union doing the same thing day after day and making an hourly wage that lets them survive but not much more, and partly because apprenticeships now only exist in the electrician and plumbing field. BUT, those apprenticeships are no longer adequately supported by help from the city to pay their wages so most cannot afford to pay them and therefore go without. There is no qualified training for painters, drywall and plaster trades or carpentry. Most learn on the job. Some take pride in their work and do it brilliantly. Most others do not. Unless you are self employed, there is no incentive! Bring back the guilds and certifications! The young people of today need to learn that great pride and satisfaction can come from a career in the trades, and if you do your work well, you will make a good living!

[@heather2493]

I have an issue with you blaming your intern for oversanding… because that wood was clearly damaged by wormholes… and that is not your interns fault eh? ✌️anyway cheers for passing on knowledge to the new generation, but please be fair with your criticisms…

[@Belzediel]

"This leg is not original" might just be the funniest thing I've seen on YT this year. Bravo.

[@jeankipper6954]

I really like, not only the craftsmanship and artistry, which are excellent. But equally as much, the stable camera views, not bobbling around, and the quiet, not babbling constantly. Your videos are peaceful. THANK you!

[@ATRestoration]

Yes, I try to hold certain quality and respect my viewer.

[@charleenwright4336]

From the cleanliness of your shop to the Oh My Goodness meticulous nature of your work, you never fail to amaze me!

[@svetlaeva5400]

И😅😊

[@mytot69]

You are insanely good at what you do. Respect!

[@DBKING04020]

I love the way “old” stuff is made. I have many pieces of furniture that are solid wood and they need your help but unfortunately they will probably only get my “help”. Thanks for all the helpful tips!

[@gonecywers]

As much as this project threw roadblocks in front of you throughout, the finished product is absolutely beautiful. Such nice work and great result. I thoroughly enjoyed this video.

[@wendellmacscience3633]

Your work is simply amazing! It is so satisfying to see yet another worn out and broken down piece of someone’s history restored to its former glory. Your skill, patience, perseverance and attention to detail are humbling. Thank you for sharing your master skills with the rest of the world! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼‼

[@badgerservices9665]

35 minutes!!!??? My, my, you are spoiling us this week!

[@brotherandrew3393]

I am glad that you didn´t paint it or tried to make it look "modern". Good restoration!

[@josephinehogg3629]

Took my breath away! so beautiful. Wishing that old people like me, could be restored too 😂😍

[@marcusott2973]

Saturday evening treat, I've just poured myself an e excellent drink. Great craftsmanship as always!

[@dianebeckner884]

You, Sir, are an artist! I've always been impressed with the woodworking my dad did, but I think I had no idea what all he actually did. Watching you work is like seeing him in action. He was an artist too. I wish I had spent more time in the work shop learning from him.

[@Kreativ-na-nolik]

Я не имею никакого отношения к реставрации мебели, но с большим удовольствием смотрю именно этот канал. Помимо безупречной техники исполнения и владения множеством инструментов, этот мастер обладает эстетическим вкусом, умением вовремя останавливаться, не полируя до блеска каждую деталь, а оставляет энергетику вещи. Это определенно талант! Спасибо большое!

[@lrdisco2005]

17.35 The skill required to free hand that diameter so consistently. Respect sir.

[@donnawoods3588]

Love your work but what I love the most is your sense of humour. You always put a smile on my face.

[@RissaFirecat]

Every time I watch one of your restorations I am amazed again at how much of an artist you are. You truly are a master. Thank you again for the quality of your restorations. You are the best I have ever seen. I am 73 years old and I've watched quite a few craftsmen build and repair furniture. None hold a candle to you. This chest of drawers turned out magnificent!

[@williamdoyle649]

This has to look better than the original.For me,the key takeaway is fixing a mistake in the finishing with ,basically ,starting over with a new method .Inspiring.

[@agistan7764]

That drawer went from near trash to a museum-quality piece. Like I always said before, you are a magician.

[@alinabenoit3124]

good work despite the difficulties 👏👏👏

[@glossaria2]

I love how you go back and forth between power tools and, like, a hand plane. ☺

[@arlentaylor8024]

I have to say, I like your videos the best. I like to see wood repaired and not just filled with epoxy.

[@lquannel3214]

I've seen other wood restoration videos, they don't come close to you. You work carefully with wood to restore it others don't. You are by far the best I've seen.

[@Quaker521]

Too much sanding, not enough sanding and all of the other problems but after the Ahti treatment - what a transformation! Brilliant work as usual.

[@ellenfoster9764]

It would probably be cheaper to build a whole new piece of furniture, but your meticulous reclamations are so much more beautiful!

[@loverestoration9045]

You can’t beat that feeling when you know it’s going to carry on being loved and used for many years😊

[@gaslitworldf.melissab2897]

Well, I'm so impressed. I have far fewer cracks and blemishes, so send me directions to the shop. I see you're a craftsmen who really caress for old furniture like no one else.

[@anniel3305]

This restoration was amazing! You basically rebuilt the entire beautiful dresser! The amount of detail and the time spent, just wow. I don’t think there is anything that you can’t do, seriously, that was so much work. You truly are a master artist and craftsman. I so love watching your videos, watching you work is a pleasure and your solutions to issues that come up are always perfect. Any one lucky enough to apprentice with you is unbelievably fortunate. Thank you for your excellent videos!

[@imlistening1949]

Well said - thank you Annie L

[@barbaramentzer9079]

You have restored this wonderful dresser for another generation. Thank you so very much.

[@rnp497]

oh that Dresser had a hard life, good thing Dr A T is at hand to do his magic

[@nancyring8104]

I like the way you disassemble a piece before making repairs!!❤️

[@sarathecat7163]

Хорошо, что есть на свете не только болтуны, но и Люди Дела. Большое вам спасибо. Труд объединяет людей. И вы тут впереди многих!)

[@normafollet7156]

How happy the chest of draws will be after mr AT, s profesinal work is finished. 🙌😊

[@russellwall1964]

It’s always so clear that you not only know your craft like a master, but love it like only a true master could. And that shows every single time in the results of your work. It is always a pleasure to watch you work and learn new ways to make old things look beautiful again. Thanks so much for taking the time to make these videos!

[@channelsixtysix066]

Despite the annoying rework along the way, this dresser became yet another piece restored to perfection. I imagine a very satisfying result in the end, Ahti.

[@tonyaclaxton9169]

100% redone to its former glory. Awesome Job as always

[@TheJcs555]

Your attention to even the smallest detail sets your work apart from other restoration artists! Beautiful as always! Bless you! 🙂

[@comienengelbrecht2287]

I love to see that you always make a plan to fix a problem.

[@ransomdaniels8395]

Once again, you managed to turn a prior silk purse back INTO a lovely silk purse from the ripped paper bag it had become. Excellent work, and I learned something new, once again, as I always do when watching a master craftsman at work. But you're not really a mere master craftsman....you're an artist and wood is your medium...you're a chemist in mixing up solutions to take care of woodworm and in choosing just the right combination of dyes and waxes and paint sticks to bring wood to life....and an engineer to figure out structure and angles and surfaces. And I am once again impressed right down to my toes. Applause, Applause!!! And thanks for sharing!😊❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@LYNX2418]

Another great restoration! Thank you. I enjoy the down time I get from watching your channel. See you on the next one. 👍✌🖖

[@deborahdanhauer8525]

I would have never thought it would be that much work to restore that piece just by looking at it. And it fought you every step of the way too! But it turned out beautifully…. As always🐝🤗❤️

[@loisbruce]

Hello Ahti, I watch KZbin for the quilting, cooking and crafting tutorials but somehow the algorhitms linked me into gardening and woodwork! I've been watching your channel and others like you, and can honestly say as someone with no skills in woodwork, but who enjoys crafting, that your restoration work is by far the best I've seen. Everything that you do - from assessing the damage, repairing or replacing, to patiently bringing a piece back to life is an artform in itself and shows how much you respect the work of the previous designer. Thank you for passing your knowledge onto the next generation and I hope they'll be as skilled and professional as you one day. Watching from the UK ❤

[@williamcurwen7428]

I really enjoy watching you operate workshop machinery as if they are hand tools fitted with electric motors. 👍🏻

[@jennylawson1980]

From all that you have to do, to the excellent clean and wonderful shop. You are a true master of your craft. Yet again another beautiful job.

[@user-ei6os1uk7x]

Божественная работа.У вас просто золотые руки.Получился очередной ШЕДЕВР.Вы супер реставратор.❤❤❤❤

[@chrish1657]

That new varnish has definitely put a shine in his life.

[@user-rs6sd6je7e]

Как всегда: в начале видео-проще новый сделать, и, как всегда, в конце видео - красота! Мастер, у Вас золотые руки!

[@annettemalaski1967]

You certainly had to fabricate more pieces than intended. Your repairs were marvelous. I wish the handle bases were a little less dark. But you certainly gave this piece a whole new lease on life!

[@pofrof4910]

Knowledge, skills and tools. You have all. Nice work with the front feet. 👍

[@TheEdub123]

I believe those little wood pieces you made for securing the shelves are called cleats! 🇺🇸 awesome job! 👍

[@michaeldowdle6123]

Just WOW!!!, loving your sense of humour. Cheers Michael🇨🇦

[@gregbellinger5765]

Some of the custom repair pieces he makes by hand are pretty cool to watch. To make things by eyeballing it is an art form.

[@lagunabay51]

Every thing you touch turns into a magnificent piece of art. You are a true master at your craft.

[@ruthfedrau5546]

You can obviously handle complicated. It just takes more time and patience. Beautiful job!

[@megabit101]

the ending was the best of all. Great job as usual. Such detail and workmanshop!

[@Grandmotherof3]

Fantastic job restoring this dresser!

[@cecoya]

You are the restoration WHISPERER!!! You take the time to do things right even though there are problems. That is one beautiful dresser now with ALL the repairs. I certainly hope that the client is very pleased with the end result. You have a tea and relax and have a great day

[@renevanderberg3964]

Gee wiss you almost rebuild the whole cabinet. You are truly talented

[@texascanadian]

Always sad when your video ends. As always excellent work and great content.

[@consolw]

There are two things that I love about your videos. Firstly the obvious one is the pleasure of watching you work, the attention to detail and the end result of a beautiful piece of furniture ready for it’s new life. The second is the idea of saving a piece of furniture from the scrap heap and renewing it’s life. There is far too much throwaway furniture today. Such a waste!

[@Joe1935429]

Your mind's eye is amazing! You obviously saw what we all saw in this poor dresser; old, worn, damaged, and of no use to anyone. You also saw what it could be, what you could make it. I celebrate with the rest of us your singular art and the many skills that complement it. Bravo!! and thanks!

[@lynnjasen9727]

That was just a ridiculous amount of work, but the result is spectacular! There must be something you cannot do, but I can’t think what it could be. It’s always an event here when you put up a new video. Thank you so much!🇨🇦💕

[@DonaTellaVers]

Мое Вам восхищение, Ахти! Это была грандиозная реставрация. На процесс Вашего труда можно смотреть часами. Спасибо за очередное видео-релакс.

[@Y2Ksurvivor276]

Loved "this leg is not original" 😍

[@167curly]

Another amazing restoration of a fine item of furniture with your skills and care.

[@tracymclaughlinholmes677]

I love that deep red original color we saw as soon as you took the side trim (chair rail height) and first knob/key plate off. The finished product is absolutely gorgeous!!!!

[@writerlisakaye]

My father referred to these are beaver projects... one 'dam' thing after another. Excellent work though. I love your videos.

[@innaeizvertina2359]

Привет из Риги!Когда везде творится полный пипец Ваши видео настоящий релакс!Большое спасибо!😊

[@Flippingdrawers]

That was a lot of work! You are so good 👌🏻

[@yufrrr]

i could watch this for hours. thank you

[@ritacollins8666]

Beautiful as always. You are so much fun to watch.

[@user-mx9bf6dp3n]

Браво мастеру!!! 👏Золотые руки 💪Ваши видео просто релакс какой-то, супер!!! 👍👍👍👍👍

[@user-bf3qy6xu4e]

Поддерживаю ваш восторг! Не могу пропустить ни одного нового видео!

[@darilynkrupp6309]

Watching the beginning of your videos is a bit like the start of a mystery movie. With my untrained eye I'm not sure what all needs fixing or how to do it, unsure how to & how much needs dismantling & unschooled in what steps & techniques will work best to create a beautiful piece of furniture that I would be proud to have in my home. Watching you complete the task & meet both obvious & unforeseen challenges by having experience, skill, an artist's vision, proper tools & good common sense is entertaining & instructive. Each video is like taking a master class in furniture restoration. Thank you.

[@karencox3235]

I am so impressed. You are true craftsman. The kiss at the end was the perfect touch. ;)

[@JustSayin916]

Hey. Despite the challenges, you always figure out how to resolve them! How satisfying it must be to achieve such perfection. If I were 16 again, I'd ask if I could come and be your apprentice! An apprentice to a True Master

[@helen9073]

BEAUTIFUL restoration! Thank you for sharing the journey of repairing this wonderful chest of drawers.

[@user-xd5ip1rc3l]

It's a hard work, but it looks like a million dollars!😊

[@DiamondDustAndVerdigris]

Gorgeous piece, Ahti! Those pulls and back plates are just amazing! You certainly had your work cut out for you on this one. Hope you weren't too hard on your intern, though- it turned out wonderfully. BTWv I also love the way you love your new varnish! LOL

[@MrsMorrisReads]

i know you probably hate that she over sanded, but it gives the rest of us the opportunity to see what to do when that happens.

[@ATRestoration]

Yes, it is common problem.

[@Sjels17]

I caught Corona so am in bed a lot. Perfect timing for this new video! Wonderfull skils everytime. U never dissspoint

[@brucegoatly]

Beautiful workmanship!

[@Vickie-Bligh]

Wow that fought you every step of the way. What a magnificent end, however. It's gorgeous. Thanks for sharing.

[@dorothydishman4664]

A very nice workshop with the latest of every tool rvet needed, how fortunate fir you. Your attention to detail is rewarding to you, the project and observers. Thoroughly enjoying to watch. Thank you.

[@reneemitchell1650]

I really like watching your channel.

[@lindamurphy1439]

WOW!!! You have the patience of a saint!

[@tatjanaherrmann4053]

Habe jetzt schon ein paar Ihrer Videos gesehen und finde Ihre Arbeit einfach toll! Sie machen -zum Glück- nie zuviel! Es gibt hier fürchterliche Kanäle...dort wird durch Überrestaurierung den Antiquitäten völlig der Charme genommen! Abo!!

[@deniseloper4002]

I love that your shop is so clean. Beautiful work!

[@joesony5196]

you gave it a second life, remarkable work ,really i like it.

[@Pureimagination200]

Your camera person and editing are great

[@luckytahlula6515]

I never tire of watching you work. Beautiful, as always. Stay well and safe. God bless you.

[@markshafer9452]

This is what perfection looks like! You are an Artist!

[@schoensangalli6972]

With many interruptions while watching, it took me 2 days to finish but I couldn't miss a second of your work. Your patience paid off with a stunning piece!

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

A minor miracle every time! Just beautiful!

[@aminakishk6571]

I love the drawer handles….my favourite , the out come is magnificent ! Bravo !

[@ahujeffrey]

Wonderful craftsmanship. You offer both creative and useful tips and methods for woodworkers. Although my family has been in woodworking for generations, I'm the first to leave the trade. Gives me a sense of connection to watch your videos. Thanks for sharing so much!

[@mjkay8660]

beautiful. i cry when i see painted wood & i tell them to paint plastic & leave the wood for 1 that appreciates it

[@drfred1203]

Fantastic Work! Talk about bumps in the road. Nothing stopped you though. You brought a beautiful dresser back to life. Cheers!🖖🙂

[@tomt2187]

Love your work! And I am very happy to hear you have an intern who is learning the skills (including the look and feel of sanding) you have and keep doing restoration of old furniture so those pieces don't just get thrown away. Thank you!

[@christinebrady6842]

OMGosh! Your skill set is endlessly amazing. Whew! This piece turned out beautiful.

[@karozans]

Maybe you could do a video that explains the differences between shellac, varnish, dye, and all the other types of ways to finish an item, and why you use one as opposed to another?