A woman removes old, discoloured varnish from an antique painted table top with a cotton bud.

Furniture Polishers and French Polishing

Standard polishing and French polishing are traditional techniques used to enhance the beauty and longevity of wooden furniture. Our polishers combine traditional and French polishing with the latest technology to restore furniture to its original condition and protect it from wear. This way, we can restore and maintain both vintage pieces and modern woodwork. Would you like to know more about polishing techniques and how these can enhance your antiques? Please contact us for more information.


A pair of colour matched walnut bedside tables after polishing.

Furniture polishing

Standard polishing involves applying high-quality waxes or finishes to protect the wood and bring out its natural grain. This adds depth and warmth to the surface. A.J. Brett combines traditional polishing with the latest technology, using heat and water resistant polishes for tables and other wooden surfaces. We can refinish all types of wooden furniture and restore them to their original condition. For example, our furniture polishers will repair scratches and watermarks on tables, desks, sideboards, cabinets and chairs.

French polishing

French polishing is a traditional wood finishing technique, which polishers use on wooden furniture that has worn or faded over time. It consists of applying many thin coats of shellac dissolved in alcohol using a rubbing pad lubricated with oil. French polishing is a highly skilled and labour-intensive process. However, the finish is considered to be one of the most beautiful ways to treat antique furniture. The deep, glossy sheen enhances the richness and character of the wood, while preserving the authenticity of the piece.

Polished antique wooden bookcases in an ornate room with stained glass windows and parquet flooring.

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