Woodworm damage repair

[rxh]

I have been given an old oak chest with some localised woodworm damage. I have injected treatment liquid into the holes but the edge has crumbled in the area shown in the photo. I intend to fill the holes with coloured wax but I would be grateful for any suggestions for making an inconspicuous repair to the crumbled area.

 

[AJB Temple]

I think from personal experience that the only real course of action is to pare it away and let a new piece in. Old hardwood furniture often has small repairs and if done well, adds to the character.

 

[Cabinetman]

I think from personal experience that the only real course of action is to pare it away and let a new piece in. Old hardwood furniture often has small repairs and if done well, adds to the character.

I agree, it’s the accumulated grunge in the edges and hollows that is the difficult bit to replicate. Ian

 

[Trevanion]

I would poke it with something sharp and thin first, like a scalpel or a stanley knife blade to see if it's really spongy in that area, if it is it may need further stabilising before you do anything rash to it as if you start cutting into it you may open a can of (wood) worms that will be more difficult to repair.

 

[rxh]

Thanks for your replies. After probing, I decided to let in a piece of wood, slightly dovetailing the ends. I'll pare it down to size when the glue has set.