Refinishing suggestions

[John Scane]

Hi All,

Does anyone do refinishing? I was asked if I could refinish some tables for a restaurant and I have no idea what to charge for this kind of work. I've found a person that does professional stripping ( not that kind ) and he charges about 200 for a large table top 30"x72". I would do the sanding, staining and top coat as well as all the leg work. When I added all the expenses involved and the minimum of what I want to make I come up with a number that seems like a lot to me.
I figure to make about $40.00 an hour I will have to charge $800 a piece.

Any thoughts?

Thanks!

[Joe Unni]

John,

Last year I brokered a refinish deal for one of my customers. I think he charged me around $475 for the dining table top and two leaves with pickup and delivery. I charged her $550 - she didn't even blink. I think you're on the right track for sure. Maybe offer your customer two prices - the works for $800 or just the tops for...you fill in the number.

Good luck.
-joe