New York Magazine, November 22, 1993

HIGH-QUALITY METAL REPAIRS ON ALL MANNER of objects is performed at Restoration & Design Studio
(249 East 77th Street; 212-517-9742). Paul Karner declares that he is "not cheap, but I'm the best," and many Madison Avenue dealers and a host of private clients agree. Karner is known for his expertise in reproducing hardware for antique furniture as well as soldering (silver) and brazing (bronze and brass). He is quick to point out that he uses only lead-free solder for the inside of drinking vessels and that many metalworkers are not so scrupulous. This is the place to have carved to order the ivory insulators for the handles of silver coffee pots or antique finials. Karner can hammer even the largest dents out of silver ewers, restore fireplace tools to their former glory, and rewire complex lighting fixtures (starts at $25). He warns prospective clients not to attempt glue repairs to metal; it only adds to the time and cost when he must first remove the old glue. And he cautions against removing the finish from objects, because you may take off the valuable patina. "Warn the maid, too." No house calls or pickup and delivery.