Refinishing your furniture - how it works
Restoring and refinishing your furniture might seem a bit daunting but I assure you it's a really enjoyable and satisfying process. When you are ready to bring a new twist to your old or vintage piece, we start by taking a look at the condition of your item, the space and style of the room it'll occupy and your vision for the colour and finish. We also look at the hardware and decorative features and finishes like stains and glazes etc. It's a lot of fun and clients are usually surprised at just how many possibilities are 'hatched' at the ideas stage.
When the plan is agreed, I take a 50% deposit before transporting and starting work at my studio in Almancil. I love to keep clients up to date on how the project is going with photos etc and you're always welcome to drop by if you'd like to see how it's progressing.
Pricing is based on the time required to refinish your furniture and the products/finishes you chose. It's a transparent process and all pricing is agreed ahead of time.
Preparation
Prep is as unglamorous as it gets. It's physically demanding, it's messy and slow but every piece gets this meticulous preparation before a paint can is opened. I pay close attention throughout this stage to ensure the surfaces are free of any old finish. It's the secret to a flawless, durable finish that won't scratch or chip down the road.
After a thorough vacuum and deep cleaning (furniture with history is grimy!) I remove all the hardware and strip/sand the entire piece back (often to raw wood). I take care of any necessary repairs before a final clean before priming each piece. This ensures a perfect base for paint application and adhesion.
Premium Products
Furniture refinishing is a thriving business around which an enormous industry has grown. Paints and finishing products take centre stage, but not all are created equal! My preference is the brilliant range from Fusion Mineral Paint which is the gold standard for professional furniture refinishers.
Unlike traditional chalk and 'hybrid' paints, Fusion is an acrylic-based product which means it has a smooth-to-the-touch finish that's as durable as it is beautiful. No waxing, no touching-up. Once fully cured (after 30 days), Fusion surfaces are water and stain-proof, will not chip or scratch and unlike chalk paint, don't require any further waxing or maintenance. Having used other popular brands over the years like Annie Sloan, Frenchic etc., I believe there is simply no better professional paint when it comes to quality, choice and sustainability.
The Wow Factor
Furniture from The Statement Piece stands out, it captures your attention when you enter a room, it's a conversation piece. I'm always looking to bring an element of surprise....a unique drawer pull, maybe some stunning fabric or an exquisite glaze.
I adore using techniques like gilding and decoupage - a French 17th-century style of permanently applying wallpaper or fabrics to furniture. IOD and Prima Furniture Transfers can also be stunning.
I love finding the balance between colours and textures without overshadowing the beauty of the furniture itself. Bringing plenty of creative and product choices to clients is a big part of the fun, whether the result is subtle or more bold (see Projects for examples)
If you are thinking of updating a vintage piece of furniture, I would be delighted to discuss ideas with you. Drop on enquiry here.