Learn to repair and restore timber furniture in this hands-on, beginner-friendly course!

Revive your beloved timber furniture and learn the art of restoration with The Bower’s practical Furniture Repair & Restoration Workshop. This one-day course is perfect for beginners, up-cyclists, and DIY enthusiasts looking to bring new life to worn or damaged timber furniture.

Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll learn essential techniques for repairing joints, replacing missing parts, cleaning surfaces, and restoring finishes. You’ll use a range of tools—from hand tools and clamps to power sanders and heat guns—on real furniture brought from home or sourced second-hand.

Participants are encouraged to bring 1 small timber item (like a chair or coffee table) to work on. While a fully finished piece is not guaranteed, you’ll leave equipped with the skills and confidence to continue your project at home—and with a huge sense of accomplishment.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will:

Repair loose or damaged timber joints
Replace missing or worn components
Use woodworking tools confidently and safely
Restore surfaces using glue, wax, polish, and more
Apply learned techniques to other upcycling projects
Understand workshop procedures and how to work safely

Course Content

Workshop safety and housekeeping
Introduction to tools: clamps, hand tools, power tools
Timber glues, waxing and polishing
Repairing joints and timber
Ethical vs financial considerations in restoration
Practical demonstration on disassembling and reassembling a standard chair

Who Should Attend

This course is ideal for:

DIYers and beginners (18+)
Anyone wanting to restore furniture
Up-cyclists and sustainability enthusiasts
Anyone curious about hands-on furniture repair—no experience necessary

Need ideas for projects? Check out furniture at our stores in Marrickville & Summer Hill. Alternatively, garage sales, Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, or weekend markets!

What to Bring

Encouraged to bring small timber furniture item or work on one of our example pieces.
PPE: face mask, safety goggles, earmuffs. Alternatively use ours which will be supplied.
Lunch (or purchase from nearby cafes)
Wear old clothes, closed-in shoes, and tie back long hair
Avoid jewellery and loose accessories

Accessibility

Some of our instructors are experienced in working with individuals living with disability. Please advise us of any accessibility needs prior to enrolment so we can accommodate your requirements.

Tools & Materials

All major tools and materials are provided by The Bower. You’ll gain hands-on experience using both hand and power tools in a safe and supportive environment.

Location

REDFERN The Bower Reuse & Repair Centre

107 Redfern St, Redfern NSW 2016 (entry via Turner Street, opposite of 23 Turner Street, from the rear of building)

Entrance to workshop
Workshop entrance is via Turner Street at the rear of 107 Redfern St. If the doorway is locked and/or unattended pls ring the doorbell on the left of the roller door.

Transportation and parking
Bower Woodworks is located within 5-minute walking distance of Redfern Train Station. Both metred and unmetered parking are available nearby.

📅 Workshop Details

Date: Saturday 26th July

Time: Full-day session 10am - 3 or 4pm (Depending on class size)