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 five 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 44 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 valued member of our team since 2015, progressing from college work experience to a fully qualified French Polisher and Cabinet Maker. He is a key figure within our workshop, consistently delivering exceptional work with an outstanding eye for detail.

    Highly passionate about his craft, Caine sets a high standard through his dedication and professionalism. He also demonstrates strong leadership, mentoring apprentices and sharing his knowledge to support the development of others. His passion and dedication show no sign of waning.

  • Aysha Queale

    Apprentice Cabinet Maker, Third Year.

    Aysha started with us in 2023 and has been undertaking an apprenticeship as a cabinetmaker. She is always eager to learn new skills and take on challenges to push her abilities to the next level. Aysha competed in the WorldSkills competition in Canberra in 2024 as a first-year apprentice. She was awarded the CE Industries Scholarship at a Women’s Trades event in December 2025. We look forward to seeing her hone her skills and become a highly skilled tradeswoman.

  • Callum Whitta

    Apprentice French Polisher, Second Year.

    Callum is the newest member of our team, having joined us in 2025. From the moment he walked through the doors of the polish shop for his job interview and said, “I want to learn how to do that,” we knew we had to give him the opportunity. He has embraced the role with great enthusiasm and has been learning and developing his skills with Caine by his side every step of the way. We look forward to watching him continue to grow and learn over the next three years.