Ep 15. One Horse Open Sleigh

In the season 3 episode 15 of American Restoration titled "One Horse Open Sleigh," the crew at Rick's Restorations takes on an exciting challenge as they work to restore a vintage horse-drawn sleigh.

The episode begins with Rick Dale, the owner of Rick's Restorations, receiving a call from a local collector who has brought in the dilapidated sleigh for restoration. The collector explains that the sleigh has been in his family for generations and holds a sentimental value, but over time, neglect and exposure to the elements have left it in a sorry state.

As the sleigh is wheeled into the workshop, the team of skilled craftsmen at Rick's Restorations examines it closely to assess the extent of the damage. They discover that the wooden body panels are cracked, the metal runners are rusted, and the intricate decorative features have deteriorated significantly.

Rick sees great potential in restoring the sleigh to its former glory and immediately gets to work. He assigns his team members specific tasks, leveraging their respective expertise to tackle the various components of the restoration project. The team is excited about the challenge ahead and starts researching the sleigh's history to ensure their restoration efforts are accurate and true to the original design.

The first step of the restoration process is to address the damaged wooden body panels of the sleigh. One of Rick's top woodworkers carefully removes the cracked panels and replaces them with sturdy new ones. The craftsmanship and attention to detail that go into this painstaking process is truly impressive, as they replicate the original design and ensure a perfect fit.

While the woodwork is underway, another team member takes on the task of restoring the metal runners. He skillfully removes the rust and corrosion, meticulously sanding and polishing them until they shine like new. The team understands that the runners are not only functional but also play a vital role in preserving the historical integrity of the sleigh.

Simultaneously, a talented artist at the shop begins the delicate process of recreating the sleigh's decorative elements. Using reference images and historical research, the artist skillfully stencils and paints intricate patterns on the body panels. Each stroke of the brush brings the sleigh a step closer to its original beauty, highlighting the incredible skill of the restoration team.

As the restoration progresses, the team encounters various challenges along the way, from sourcing authentic materials to addressing unexpected structural issues. However, their creativity and resourcefulness allow them to overcome each obstacle with precision and finesse. They even enlist the help of specialists outside the shop when necessary, showcasing their commitment to delivering the best results possible.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to glimpses of the restoration process, witnessing the evolution of the sleigh from a dilapidated artifact to a meticulously restored masterpiece. The episode captures not only the technical aspects of the restoration but also the emotional connection that both the collector and the team have with the sleigh.

In the grand finale, the restored sleigh is unveiled, and the collector is overwhelmed with joy and gratitude for the exceptional work done by Rick's Restorations. The sleigh stands as a stunning testament to the skills and passion of the team, showcasing their ability to breathe new life into forgotten treasures.

"One Horse Open Sleigh" is a captivating episode of American Restoration that celebrates the art of restoration and the preservation of history. Through meticulous craftsmanship and unwavering dedication, Rick's team takes on the challenge of restoring a beloved family heirloom, ensuring its legacy for many years to come.