Wood Work

I've started cleaning the cabinet and underbelly portion of the treadle machine.  I started with the drawers since I was afraid I'd forget them otherwise.  (I pulled them out to air them when I took the whole thing apart.)  I'm starting with Murphy's Oil Soap because it's safe for wood and it's been around long enough, it should be fine for the old finish on the cabinet.  See the picture above?  The drawer on the left is washed and the drawer on the right isn't.

I'll be oiling the wood a couple of times and then rubbing in some Wood Beams - I use this on my drop spindles and spinning wheels.  There is a very faint smell of smoke to the cabinet when it's open (it had been used as a table for years and was just closed up), so I figure years and years ago, someone smoked around it.  Of course, years ago, everyone smoked apparently, so that makes sense.  I'm hoping that with the airing out of the entire cabinet, the washing, the oiling, and the Wood Beams (which has a scent to it), I can pretty much get rid of the smoky smell.  It is a mellow, soft smoky scent - not at all the harsh gross smell of recent smoking - so I think it will go away soon.

I'm hoping to get the rest of the wood cabinet washed this weekend and then get everything oiled and treated.  I can't wait to start on the machine head and I hope I get to next week!

Have a great weekend!