How to become a french polisher
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- training with a professional body
University
Doing a higher national diploma or degree in furniture design, decorative arts or furniture restoration can be useful if you want to start your own business.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- between 1 and 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma or degree
More Information
College
You can learn polishing and finishing skills on some furniture making and restoration courses like:
- Level 2 Furniture Finishing Methods
- Level 3 Diploma in Furniture Restoration
- City and Guilds Level 3 Furniture Design and Making
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
More Information
Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships that may give you some of the skills needed for this role include:
- Level 2 Furniture manufacturer
- Level 2 Wood product manufacturing operative
- Level 3 Bespoke furniture maker
- Level 3 Carpentry and Joinery
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More Information
Other Routes
You could do a specialist training course in french polishing with a professional body like the The British Antique Furniture Restorers' Association.
More Information
Professional and industry bodies
You could join The Guild of Master Craftsmen for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a french polisher from The Guild of Master Craftsmen.