What will I be doing?

If you have the skills to restore antiques to their former beauty, you can make a good full-time income with an antique restoration service. There are more than 6,000 full-time antique restoration services in the U.S. These services find, repair, restore and refinish furniture, automobiles and other collectibles from the past.

What will I need to start?

Restoring antiques requires a variety of related and highly developed skills. If you decide to restore antique furniture you’ll need to have a working knowledge of woods, old and new finishes and finishing techniques. You’ll also need woodworking and wood finishing tools. If you’re restoring cars, you’ll need an even wider variety of skills, tools, techniques and knowledge. Many people start this business as a hobby until they have gained enough experience to attract paying customers.

Who will my customers be?

Your antique restoration knowledge and skills will be sold to individuals, antique dealers, resellers, estates, investors, galleries, museums and others. Your specific customers will depend on what types of antiques you restore, your experience and the interest and opportunities available in your area.