The work of a furniture restorer is varied - sometimes a piece of furniture only needs to be re-glued, or the wood needs to be refinished. Other times a piece of furniture needs to be completely rebuilt. A furniture restorer needs the skills of re-upholstery, refinishing, French polishing, as well as woodturning, gilding and marquetry.
If working with antiques, a furniture restorer requires a good understanding of furniture history. The furniture restorer should carefully assess the current state of the piece and research furniture from the same time period. It is also important to consider the best ways to preserve the furniture's original qualities and to protect it in the long term. A furniture restorer often has to think creatively and artistically when planning arduous restoration jobs.
The best way to start a career in furniture restoration is get an apprenticeship in furniture restoration. It would also be helpful to gain experience in furniture design, furniture making, cabinet making, carpentry, and interior design. Ask your employer if you can learn specific techniques such as upholstery and French polishing. There are also many vocational colleges that offer courses in furniture restoration.
