There are several advantages to starting a furniture refinishing business
You can earn a home-based income working with your hands. You can build a client base working with people who love antiques and are willing to pay for custom refinishing. Set your own hours, whether it's late at night, around your existing job, or part-time as a side hustle. By having a home workshop, you save on the overhead of having to rent a storefront or workshop. If you already have space and equipment to refinish furniture, your startup expenses can be relatively low.
Modern furniture pieces are not of the same quality as the old furniture pieces. The quality has deteriorated over the past several decades, and the highest quality wood is not used anymore except for very specific (and expensive) applications.The inexpensive plywood used today does not last for many years, thus warranting the need to refinish old furniture, which helps furniture lasts longer. Consider restoring antique, high-quality pieces for resale as a cottage business.