Many new kid's furniture manufacturers, because of shipping and design considerations , do not have spindles or legs that are glued into the seat of a chair or rocker. But, kids rockers and chairs from previous generations often used this construction. Through the years, the legs or spindles may become loose and your kids rocker becomes wobbly. If left unrepaired, the rocker will not last long.
The repair is more permanent and stronger when the two pieces can be fully separated. If other spindles/legs keep you from removing the loose leg, you may have to separate those that are still tight. By using a mallet and a block of wood and/or with a rocking and twisting motion, you will be able to loosen the tight leg. A further aid in this process would be to use a chemical solution to soften the old glue. Equally mix distilled white vinegar and hot water. Inject the solution using some kind of syringe into the joint. Doing this several times during a few hour period will work. If that solution doesn't soften the joint, a stronger solution of lacquer thinner (acetone) can be tried. Be aware, however, that lacquer thinner will almost always damage furniture finishes and should be used only as a last resort.
Once the pieces to be repaired and reglued are separated, you must remove all the old dried glue. New glue applied to a joint without removing the old glue will not result in a strong repair. Scrape and sand the dowel end and clear the socket by removing all the old glue. If you have a drum sanding bit (Dremel style) you can use it with your drill to sand the inside of the socket. Another way is to wrap sandpaper around a dowel rod and use that to sand the insides. Be sure to carefully remove the lump of glue often found in the bottom of the socket with a drill and/or chisel. That glue is sometimes the result of the dowel end not fully inserted into the socket which may be why the joint became loose.
Check the pieces for fit. Next apply white glue to both pieces and reassemble. You will want to clamp and glue the joint. Be sure it is fully together. Do not over tighten the clamps as this will squeeze too much glue from the joint and weaken your repair. Wipe any any excess glue or runs from your repair.
Clamping chairs can be tricky. You may need to employ a rope or cords to mate with the uneven surfaces and angles.
If you have questions, contact us through our website: http://www.kidspaintedfurnitureshop.com/ and we will be glad to help. We also have some wonderful new kid's furniture pieces that will inspire and delight your child or grandchild.
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