Furniture Restoration Course in Florence
Where time is preserved through craftsmanship
A course dedicated to the art of restoring furniture — where history, material, and technique come together.
Guided by expert restorers, you will learn how to preserve, repair, and revive wooden pieces, respecting their origin while restoring their function and beauty.
The Course
Preserving the Past, Restoring Function.
Furniture restoration is both a technical and cultural practice.
This course introduces you to two complementary approaches: conservative restoration, which preserves the original state and patina of historical pieces, and antique restoration, which restores furniture to its original function and aesthetic.
You will learn how to analyse each piece, understand its history, and choose the most appropriate intervention — working with respect for materials, techniques, and time.
The art behind the technique
Italian furniture restoration is rooted in a deep respect for craftsmanship and authenticity.
Each piece of furniture carries traces of its time — in the wood, the structure, and the techniques used to create it. The role of the restorer is not to erase these traces, but to understand and preserve them.
In conservative restoration, the original patina is maintained, missing elements are carefully integrated, and damaged areas are consolidated using traditional methods and compatible materials.
In antique restoration, the goal is to recover both the function and aesthetic integrity of the piece — always respecting the techniques and materials of its original period.
This discipline requires observation, knowledge of historical carpentry, and a sensitive approach to intervention — where every decision balances preservation and transformation.
Course modules & skills
Each course is adapted to the participant’s level and the selected duration, allowing for both introductory and advanced practice. A Hands-On Restoration Journey.
M1 — Materials & Tools
- Understanding different types of wood and their characteristics
- Familiarity with restoration tools and their care
- Introduction to traditional and modern materials
M2 — Analysis & Preparation
- Reading the structure and history of a piece
- Identifying damage, fractures, and missing elements
- Preparing surfaces and planning interventions
M3 — Repair & Reconstruction
- Reconstructing missing parts using appropriate wood essences
- Organic adhesives and gluing techniques
- Reinforcing and stabilizing structures
M4 — Finishing & Polishing
- Polishing and varnishing techniques
- Surface treatment and protection
- Completing the restoration of a wooden piece
Beyond technique: the artisan mindset
Restoration is an act of respect.
Working on an object means understanding its history, its function, and the hands that created it. Each intervention requires patience, precision, and sensitivity.
You learn to observe before acting, to preserve rather than replace, and to work in harmony with the material.
It is not only about repairing an object, but about giving continuity to its story and reuse.
Who is this course for?
The Aspiring Artisan
For those curious about traditional crafts and eager to learn restoration techniques
The Maker
For creatives interested in working with wood beyond surface aesthetics
The Cultural Traveller
For those seeking an authentic, hands-on experience connected to Italian craftsmanship
What you will achieve
- A foundational understanding of furniture restoration techniques
- Hands-on experience with tools, materials, and processes
- Skills to repair and restore wooden furniture
- Greater confidence working with wood
- A deeper appreciation of craftsmanship and material culture
Practical Information
- Location: Florence, Italy
- Language: Italian / English
- Format: One-to-one or small group sessions
- Materials: Provided on site (not included in course cost)
- Level: Suitable for beginners and experienced participants
- Duration: Minimum 5 days (flexible, extended options available)
- Dates: On request
- Price: On request
Start Your Journey as a 21st Century Artisan
Turn your creative passion into a tangible skills.
Immerse yourself in a unique learning mentored by master artisans.