Hello MMDers,  This is for Jerry Kenny's question about matching new
wood to existing old wood finish, which in this case the old finish has
turned to a crackle, common for very old varnish or shellacs finishes.

What I've used for years is a product made just for that application.
"Crackle Lacquer" by Mohawk Finishing Inc., tel. 1-800-545-0047.

To achieve the crackle in the finish you first spray regular clear
gloss lacquer, and then on top of that you spray the crackle lacquer.
The time in between the two finishes and the amount of crackle finish
lacquer on top will determine the size of the crackle.  The less time
between finishes and wetter the coats the bigger the crackle.  The more
time between finishes and less finish applied the smaller the crackle.

Then factor in the color of the stain and the shading color if needed,
which should be done and sealed before crackle steps are started.
After you have finished you can select a top coat to match the original
finish (flat, satin, semi-gloss or high gloss).

Very important is to test all the above on a sample wood first --
it takes practice to achieve the correct size crackle to match the
original finish.  I have been doing custom finishes for about 17 years
and am very good at it, but I still run across a few pieces that are
difficult to match.

Good luck

Ricky Diggs
Custom Woodworking
http://www.myfreeoffice.com/woodworking/