35 years experience has put a high gloss on Earthwood’s furniture restoration skills. “But,” as craftsman, Mark Biggelaar says, “there is absolutely no point in having skills if you don’t love what you do; and I love what I do.”

Mark works with all types of timber surfaces; from bar-tops to dining suites, household furniture to marine interiors and antiques to pianos. He laughs merrily as he says, “lately I’ve been having a run on baby grand pianos, each one different in age and finish, one a gloss, another satin.

As a specialist, his expertise with a complex and ever increasing range of products and processes in the surface coating industry is unique. He understands the strengths and weaknesses of various surface coatings; the susceptibility of each to heat and moisture and their general durability.

Having developed a reputation in the timber surfacing industry for working on projects that are left well alone by others, Mark thrives on the challenge of finishes that are difficult to achieve. ”There is so much fulfillment in the end result of a high quality job,” he says.

It takes years to develop the expertise that allows perfect matching of any stain effect or colour and this kind of expertise is rare. Mark is currently investigating options for training apprentices so that the skills aren’t lost.  Some of these skills include French polishing, layering for multiple colours, veneer restoration, marine interiors, and modern surfaces.

With a genuine passion for his work, Mark Biggelaar says, “a fantastic job is important, but old fashioned good quality service is also important. I’ll ask my clients about their finishing preferences, show them the options for their treasured wood surface, and make recommendations.  I offer a pick-up and delivery service and make a point of supplying the job on time.  It adds up to customer satisfaction and in today’s world, it’s where you need to be.  Top notch personal service, top notch work.”