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Furniture Finisher

Furniture finishers prepare the final surface of items of furniture and apply stain, lacquer, paint, oil or wax.

 

Tasks & duties

Furniture finishers may do some or all of the following:

  • identify whether a surface is veneer or solid wood, and whether the wood is soft or hard
  • remove the old surface from furniture
  • fill in holes in the wood where necessary
  • remove marks and imperfections from wood
  • sand and rub wood to smooth its surface
  • apply wood stain and polish
  • apply a paint, oil or wax finish
  • re-polish restored furniture
  • finish the surface of repaired furniture
  • provide quotations for work and insurance purposes

 

Specialisations

Antique Furniture Restorer

Antique furniture restorers specialise in refinishing and restoring antique furniture.

 

Skills & knowledge

Furniture finishers need to have:

  • knowledge of different kinds of wood and furniture styles
  • knowledge of furniture stains and polishes
  • knowledge of polishing and painting techniques
  • practical skills and the ability to follow instructions
  • up-to-date knowledge of new methods and equipment

 

Entry requirements

There are no specific entry requirements to become a furniture finisher, but you can work as a trainee and gain a National Certificate in Furniture Finishing from FITEC Furniture through on and off-the-job training.

 

Secondary education

Three years of secondary education in English, maths and woodwork is recommended.

 

Useful experience

Useful experience includes woodwork and work in the furniture industry.

 

Related courses

Carpentry and Joinery
Furniture Polishing
Furniture Upholstery and Renovation

 

For more information, please refer to Career Services.

 

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