Lesson 1Filling chips and edge losses: reversible fillers, grain filling for open-grain species, colour-matching techniquesLearn to fill chips, edge damage, and open grain with reversible fillers and matching materials, then adjust colour and texture via precise grain filling and matching so repairs merge unseen with the wood.
Choosing reversible versus permanent fillersBuilding fills for edges and corner lossesGrain filling open-pore species evenlyShaping and sanding fills flush to surfacesColor-matching fills with stains and pigmentsLesson 2Finishing details: rubbing out, satin vs. gloss levels, burnishing, waxing and buffingExplore refining cured finishes by rubbing out, managing sheen from satin to gloss, and perfecting burnishing, waxing, and buffing to boost clarity, depth, and feel without penetrating the finish.
Leveling cured finishes before rub-outAbrasives and lubricants for rubbing outManaging satin, semi-gloss, and gloss levelsBurnishing techniques for edges and high spotsWax selection, application, and buffing methodsLesson 3Hardware reinstallation and stabilising moving parts, final alignment and drawer fit adjustmentsRefit hardware and secure moving components by aligning hinges, handles, and locks, adjusting drawer and door fits, and fixing distortion or sticking for smooth, safe daily operation.
Cleaning and lubricating original hardwarePositioning and piloting for new screwsAligning doors, hinges, and catchesAdjusting drawer runners and slidesStabilizing wobbly legs and moving partsLesson 4Finish removal options: chemical strippers (types, dwell time), heat gun methods, solvent sanding — techniques to avoid veneer damageCompare finish removal approaches like chemical strippers, heat guns, and solvent sanding, stressing dwell times, neutralisation, and scraper handling to prevent veneer harm, raised grain, or base softening.
Evaluating existing finish and substrate risksChoosing between solvent and caustic strippersControlling dwell time and safe scrapingHeat gun use without scorching veneerNeutralizing residues before refinishingLesson 5Client handover: long-term care, humidity recommendations, cleaning products to avoidEquip clients for ongoing care by outlining realistic wear, humidity and light advice, safe cleaning habits, and items to avoid, plus documenting finishes with straightforward written instructions.
Explaining realistic wear and maintenanceHumidity, temperature, and light guidelinesApproved cleaners and products to avoidWritten care sheets and finish documentationScheduling follow-up checks and touch-upsLesson 6Repairing structural issues: regluing joints with hide glue, reinforcing weakened substrates, re-screwing and doweling protocolsLearn to identify and fix loose or broken joints using hot hide glue, strengthen weak bases, and follow proper re-screwing and dowelling methods that respect original build while restoring full strength.
Assessing loose joints and failed adhesivesPreparing and heating traditional hide glueRegluing mortise-and-tenon and dowel jointsReinforcing weakened substrates and railsRe-screwing, plugging, and redrilling protocolsLesson 7Coating application: number of coats, dry times, sanding between coats, humidity and temperature controlMaster coating by planning layers, build-up, and drying, sanding inter-coats, and controlling workshop humidity and temp for proper curing, defect-free results, and target sheen.
Planning number of coats and target film buildBrushing, wiping, and spraying techniquesFlash, recoat, and full cure time managementSanding between coats for adhesion and levelHumidity, temperature, and dust controlLesson 8Preparation: cleaning methods for greasy grime, protein stains, and surface dirt; masking and protecting non-wood partsExcel in safe, complete cleaning pre-refinishing by spotting greasy grime, protein marks, and dirt, choosing solvents or cleaners, and masking or shielding non-wood areas from moisture and chemicals.
Identifying grime, wax, and protein residuesDetergent, solvent, and emulsifier selectionStepwise cleaning workflow and dwell timesRinsing, drying, and preventing water damageMasking metal, upholstery, and glass partsLesson 9Applying a period-appropriate finish: choosing between shellac, oil/varnish blend, or wiping oils with rationaleLearn to select and apply era-suitable finishes like shellac, oil-varnish mixes, or wiping oils, considering looks, repair ease, and history to align with the item's period and client wishes.
Reading style and era to guide finish choiceShellac cuts, padding, and brushing methodsOil and varnish blend mixing and wipingUsing wiping oils for subtle, low-build looksBalancing authenticity with durability needsLesson 10Surface preparation and sanding sequences: grit progression, feathering around veneer edges, avoiding over-sandingCreate a rigorous sanding process that honours veneers and shapes, using proper grit steps, feathering thin zones, and avoiding excess sanding that causes waves, burns, or lost details.
Planning grit progression by wood and finishHand vs. machine sanding and pad selectionFeathering near veneer edges and inlaysMaintaining profiles, beads, and carvingsSpot repairs without telegraphing patches
