Lesson 1Filling chips and edge losses: reversible fillers, grain filling for open-grain species, colour-matching techniquesUnderstand how to fill chips, edge losses, and open grain using reversible fillers and compatible materials, then refine colour and texture with careful grain filling and colour-matching so repairs blend invisibly with surrounding wood.
Choosing reversible versus permanent fillersBuilding fills for edges and corner lossesGrain filling open-pore species evenlyShaping and sanding fills flush to surfacesColour-matching fills with stains and pigmentsLesson 2Finishing details: rubbing out, satin vs. gloss levels, burnishing, waxing and buffingExplore how to refine cured finishes through rubbing out, control sheen from satin to gloss, and master burnishing, waxing, and buffing techniques that enhance clarity, depth, and tactile feel without cutting through the finish.
Levelling 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 adjustmentsReinstall hardware and stabilise moving parts by aligning hinges, pulls, and locks, tuning drawer and door fit, and addressing racking or binding so the restored piece functions smoothly and safely in everyday use.
Cleaning and lubricating original hardwarePositioning and piloting for new screwsAligning doors, hinges, and catchesAdjusting drawer runners and slidesStabilising 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 methods, including chemical strippers, heat guns, and solvent-assisted sanding, with emphasis on dwell times, neutralisation, and scraper control to avoid veneer damage, raised grain, or substrate softening.
Evaluating existing finish and substrate risksChoosing between solvent and caustic strippersControlling dwell time and safe scrapingHeat gun use without scorching veneerNeutralising residues before refinishingLesson 5Client handover: long-term care, humidity recommendations, cleaning products to avoidPrepare clients for long-term success by explaining realistic wear expectations, humidity and light recommendations, safe cleaning routines, and products to avoid, while documenting finishes and providing clear written care 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 how to diagnose and repair loose or failed joints using hot hide glue, reinforce weakened substrates, and apply correct re-screwing and doweling protocols that respect original construction while restoring full structural integrity.
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 controlGain control over coating application by planning coat counts, film build, and dry times, sanding between coats, and managing shop humidity and temperature so finishes cure properly, remain defect-free, and achieve the desired 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 partsMaster safe, thorough cleaning before refinishing by identifying greasy grime, protein stains, and embedded dirt, selecting appropriate solvents or detergents, and masking or protecting non-wood parts from moisture and chemical damage.
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 choose and apply period-appropriate finishes such as shellac, oil and varnish blends, or wiping oils, understanding their appearance, repairability, and historical context to match the piece’s era and client expectations.
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-sandingDevelop a disciplined sanding workflow that respects veneers and profiles, using correct grit progression, feathering around thin areas, and avoiding over-sanding that can cause waves, burn-through, or loss of crisp design 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
