We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. How do you decide if refinishing a piece of furniture is worth the effort? As a professional woodworker, I get asked these questions ...

Consider the much more affordable alternative of refinishing your metal furniture. Using the right tools and easily mastered techniques, you can restore those rusty eyesores to near-new beauty.

Reupholstering might be needed as well. Refinishing furniture -- depending on how far you take it -- Hobbyist? Skilled craftsperson? -- will bring you steady work once you establish a reputation.