In this workshop, you’ll learn the basics of turning an outdated small piece of furniture into one that you’re happy to see in your home!
We’ll go over: Stripping old paint and varnish, sanding properly while respecting the wood, assessing quality of wood and deciding on re-staining or re-painting, steps to proper staining and/or painting, finishing and protecting for everyday use. We will also learn how to use some basic power tools like a sander, and safety precautions around chemicals.
You’ll bring a small piece of furniture of your choice to work on:
Pick one from your own home that you’ve always wanted to update!
Thrift one (Facebook marketplace always has plenty of cheap offerings like side tables, chairs, mirrors, little shelves, that just need a little TLC (happy to help you source a great piece, but with a little research it’s very easy to find something good in the $20-50 range)
I’ll bring a couple of pieces I have thrifted to the workshop that will be available at cost as a plan B (but it’s really much more fun if you bring one you’re really excited about).
Please note that if your piece is covered in multiple coats of the old finish to strip, it will leave less time for the refinishing part of the workshop.
We won’t have the time to work on damages (like big dents, or structural/stability issues). We’ll be focusing more on updating wood color and uplifting damaged surfaces with paint.
Things can get a little messy so wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes, that you don’t mind staining (and/or an apron), wear your nails somewhat short if possible (as we’ll be wearing protective gloves for some steps), your hair up, and remove jewelry before getting started!
