Furniture Refurbishing Business: Starting Your Workshop

Did you know many people throw out good furniture because they feel it’s old or unattractive? Sometimes this is something minor or subjective but many people would instead hold on to old furniture or accessories. Most of the time it’s because these are still functional. Yet, some individuals would rather hold on due to a sentimental attachment.

Most furnishings and accessories at high-end retailers can be costly, especially if you’re replacing many items at once. Then discount stores often sell furniture that uses lower-quality materials that fall apart. For a lot of consumers, getting the most for the money means everything. Making furnishings last for years is one way of getting the most for the money.

Whatever the reason, a furniture restoration business is a good idea if you consider yourself handy with an eye for detail. People who succeed have visions of repairing or restoring everyday furnishings and accessories. This includes sculptures or smaller functional pieces found in the home, like antique clocks.

Getting Started

If a person already has some carpentry or craftsperson skills and tools, getting started in a furniture refurbishing business is easy. Those who want to learn about using tools can look up many live and online tutorials. These are good for ensuring you know how to use specific tools in a safe environment.

Identifying Target Markets

The types of people to market include antique collectors, busy working adults, and anyone who wants to save money. Typical scenarios include repairing and restoring precious heirlooms or locating rare parts. The good news is that some people are willing to pay good money to get items back in good or working condition.

Collaborating with Junk Dealers

Another good place to market services is with junk dealers who may have limited repair or restoration knowledge. Sometimes, they are pieces that are difficult to sell and need advice about what makes an item sell. A set of expert eyes with realistic ideas for repairs or restoration may be critical to a dealer making a future sale.

Catering to Frugal Consumers

Although some individuals cut corners out of necessity, this isn’t the only group to consider. Some people enjoy a frugal life and are always looking for new ways to save money and time spent shopping. These individuals shop at thrift stores and other places that sell old furniture or home decor. Small shop owners sometimes act as referrals for your furniture restoration business. 

Networking and Advertising

Advertising online is also a good idea, and social media can be especially hot for online sales or building a customer base. Blogs and social media pages are also great for showing off your skills, along with making sales. Joining social media groups is also an excellent way to promote your services.

Taking a workshop on running a furniture refurbishing business is essential to success. While running a small operation is a challenge, learning about insider resources and shortcuts helps. Making money doing something you love is likely to pay off one way or another.