So you have a piece you value and want to make it brand new and functional. It’s time to call the refinisher. What are you going to ask and what should you know? Well first of all you should know that the refinisher will be happy to answer your questions and educate the client. Let’s take a dining room set as this seems to be what I have been doing most recently as well as re-purposing. The first thing that comes to mind when asked about a dining room set is the amount of time it will take, the second thought is the type of wood and the age. Next the refinisher is going to want to hear that it has been past down in the family and will be passed down again. The truth is, for me anyways, if I don’t detect there is some value in the piece, and like I said before value isn’t always monetary, the likely hood of me wanting to do the piece is slim. I’m going to ask you how many chairs there are and the condition of the same. I’m going to want to know how many leafs there are. Is it solid wood or veneer? Have you noticed any detectible repairs? How big is the set? Is there a side board or china cabinet? What is it you want to have done? Is there a custom colour? What is your timeline? Can you deliver or do you want it picked up? The answers to these questions will help determine the price. Having the answers to these questions needs some thought prior to calling the refinisher simply because these questions will always be asked of you.
When I do a dining room set I price according to how I do the work. I never compare myself to the work or price of someone else. The first thing I do is dismantle everything. The chairs all come apart as does the table and all cabinets. Each piece is stripped by hand, sanded and repaired by hand. When it goes back together every inch has been detailed and better than new. Everything is refitted, re-glued and the structure is solid. I say it all the time "this came out better than new" and I live by that standard. The finish coats I use are proven and usually picked for the environment the piece will serve. Protecting the work is important.
So this should give you some idea of the things you should consider before having the work done. Don’t be afraid to ask the questions or getting a quote. It doesn’t mean you have to have the work done today, but it is important to educate yourself as custom work of any sort is an investment.
Marco
www.marco43.ca
When I do a dining room set I price according to how I do the work. I never compare myself to the work or price of someone else. The first thing I do is dismantle everything. The chairs all come apart as does the table and all cabinets. Each piece is stripped by hand, sanded and repaired by hand. When it goes back together every inch has been detailed and better than new. Everything is refitted, re-glued and the structure is solid. I say it all the time "this came out better than new" and I live by that standard. The finish coats I use are proven and usually picked for the environment the piece will serve. Protecting the work is important.
So this should give you some idea of the things you should consider before having the work done. Don’t be afraid to ask the questions or getting a quote. It doesn’t mean you have to have the work done today, but it is important to educate yourself as custom work of any sort is an investment.
Marco
www.marco43.ca
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