Welcome to Craft & Revive – Our Story
Hello everyone, and welcome to Craft & Revive! My wife, Alli, and I started this painting and refinishing business from the ground up, pouring our passion into every project we take on.
We’ve always been drawn to the arts—painting is something we both love. What makes this journey even better is how we balance each other’s strengths. While I focus on refinishing cabinets, doors, and furniture, Alli brings her creative touch through photography, editing, and social media. She has an incredible eye for aesthetics and even designed our company logo—simple yet meaningful.
How It All Started
Like many people, my life took an unexpected turn during COVID-19 when I was laid off from my job as a bartender. One of my closest friends, Ronnie, had just started working at a local furniture shop that specialized in selling and refinishing pieces. When they needed an extra hand, I jumped at the opportunity—it felt like fate.
Before working there, I had zero experience in refinishing. In fact, I once tried to refinish a coffee table on my own without any knowledge of the process... and let’s just say it didn’t turn out great! (I’ll be sharing some pictures soon so you can see what I mean!)
But everything changed when I started working at the furniture shop. I fell in love with the finishing process—it was so artistic and satisfying. My manager, Dave, took the time to teach me everything he knew. I’ll always be grateful for him because that’s when I knew: this is what I want to do for my career.
From Side Jobs to Craft & Revive
As I learned more, I started picking up small refinishing jobs on the side. My first-ever side job was refinishing two beautiful nightstands—a project that pushed me to invest in my first real tool: a small HVLP turbine sprayer. It was the perfect starting sprayer—easy to control and gave me an amazing finish.
Around the same time, my mother-in-law, Linda (@ bel_finito on Instagram ) an incredible faux finisher, was refinishing kitchen cabinets. I was really interested in learning that skill, so she had me help her on multiple projects. She taught me all the tricks, best products, and step-by-step techniques for refinishing kitchen cabinets. I’m so grateful for her guidance!
That was just the beginning. Every project I took on helped me improve my skills and build confidence. Eventually, Alli and I decided to take the leap and turn our passion into a business of our own. And that’s how Craft & Revive was born.
What’s Next?
Now, we’re here, doing what we love—helping homeowners bring new life to their cabinets, doors, and furniture. We’re excited to share more about our journey, projects, and refinishing tips with you!
Interested in cabinet refinishing or furniture restoration in Dayton, Ohio? Follow our blog for expert tips, dramatic before-and-after transformations, and behind-the-scenes looks at our latest refinishing projects.
Ready to start your own transformation? Get in touch with us for a free quote today!
My first attempt at refinishing - my coffee table
