Grips, handles and knots

This piece of furniture was made by Johann's dad just after the second World War.

About eight years ago we had all of our wooden furniture scraped and cleaned of all the accumulated polish that had been applied for over 30 years.

What was amazing is how the wooden furniture stood the test of time with four small kids growing up. Despite a few chips here and there, it looked rather well.

This drawer cabinet was made of Kiaat and we were surprised to see the beautiful light wood after it was cleaned and sealed. New handles and grips were fitted, and today its drawers are filled with all the old photo albums of yesteryear ... pre digital era.

About Kiaat:

Name: Kiaat (Pterocarpus angolensis)

Type: Hardwood

Other Names: Muninga, mninga, umbila, mukwa, kajat

Sources: East Africa to Northern South Africa

Appearance: A high-quality timber of handsome appearance, closely allied to Andaman. The heartwood is basically a light to medium yellowish brown with darker streaks, toning down to a pleasing, golden brown shade.

Working Props: Can be worked readily with all hand and machine tools, with only a moderate blunting effect. Wood turns well and takes nails, screws and glues readily.

Uses : Suitable for high-class furniture, cabinet work, exterior doors and decorative flooring.