French Polishing is what we love, let us bring your favourite furniture back to life.

French Polishing, what is it?

French Polishing is the process of applying finish to a timber surface. Traditionally ‘French Polished’ furniture was completed by hand, applying shellac with polishing rubbers to achieve a full gloss mirror finish. The finish brings out the grain and natural beauty of the timber. A French polished surface gives the appearance of a finish being integrated into the timber resulting in a crystal-clear glow.

The Trade previously known as ‘French Polishing’ is now known as ‘Furniture Finishing’. Furniture finishing consists of traditional antique finishing all the way through to modern furniture finishes. A trade-qualified French Polisher can hand-apply finishes, complete decorative and faux finishes; touch-up and grain-in timber imperfection, all the way through to finishes applied via a spray gun.

History of our business

The Traditional Furniture Restorer and French Polishing opened in 2002 by Garry McLaughlin. The original workshop was in Garry’s two garages at home in Waramanga. Garry has always had a passion for traditional French polishing skills and techniques.

The Traditional Furniture Restorer and French Polishing moved Queanbeyan in 2016. Our new workshop has been purpose-fitted for complete furniture restoration and repairs. We pride ourselves on training apprentices, passing on rare skills to the next generation of Furniture Finishers.

In 2006, Garry employed his first apprentice Anthony, who completed two trades in Cabinet Making and French Polishing. Since then, Garry has trained four trade-qualified French Polishers, and four Cabinet Makers, he currently has an apprentice French Polisher and an apprentice Cabinet Maker in the workshop.

Employee profiles

  • Garry McLaughlin

    French Polisher, 1988 Leading Apprentice of the year.

    Garry is a qualified craftsman, awarded the 1988 Leading Apprentice of the year. Commencing his trade over 40 years ago, he has vast experience in the furniture construction and restoration industry. Working in all facets of the industry, Garry has experience with office furniture on a modern production line, quality antique reproduction, to practising the true craft of hand polishing in antique restoration. Garry’s true passion is to pass on his traditional hand skills and knowledge to the next generation of craftsmen. He is a passionate supporter and believer in the apprenticeship system and tertiary training.

  • Tara McLaughlin

    French Polisher, 2020 Leading Apprentice of the Year. Bachelor of Heritage, Museums and Conservation. Cabinet Maker.

    Tara has been assisting Garry in the workshop since the age of 8. She successfully completed her trade qualifications in French Polishing and was awarded the 2020 Leading Apprentice of the Year. Tara undertook studies at the University of Canberra, completing a Bachelor of Conservation, Heritage, and Museums in 2020. Tara has a passion for antique furniture, especially pieces with finer details.

  • Caine Gough

    French Polisher, Cabinet Maker.

    Caine has been a part of the team since 2015. He undertook college work experience with us and quickly proved that he has the interest, keenness and ability to become a craftsman. He commenced his apprenticeship in 2016 and his ability grows daily, his keenness shows no sign of waning.

  • Charlie Lawlis

    French Polisher.

    Charlie commenced his French Polishing Apprenticeship with us in 2018. He has always been an enthusiastic learner in the workplace. We have enjoyed watching Charlie hone his skills throughout his apprenticeship and we are sure that he will continue to grow and learn throughout his journey as a Polisher.

  • Adam Barnett

    Restorer.

    Adam has been working with the furniture restoration and finishing industries in New Zealand and Australia. He brings a wealth of knowledge to our team here in Queanbeyan. Adam has a great eye for detail and is an essential part of our cabinetmaking team.

  • Ariel Carver

    Apprentice French Polisher.

    Ariel has a keen interest in antiques and collectables. She has shown eagerness to learn and build her skills in polishing, always wanting to know more about the finer skills required within the French Polishing trade.