Furniture varnisher

What does a furniture painter do? – Tasks and work environment

A furniture painter is responsible for surface finishing and lacquering furniture and interior details to create a durable and aesthetically pleasing surface. The work includes everything from preparation such as sanding, cleaning, and priming to applying various types of lacquer and paint. Typically, manual and machine methods are used depending on the type of furniture and desired results. The work environment can vary and include small carpentry shops as well as larger industrial settings, where precision, patience, and good material knowledge are crucial for the quality of the final product. Furniture painters often work in ventilated facilities to minimize exposure to chemicals and dust particles.

Salary development over time

The salary for furniture painters has shown some variation in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 32,600 SEK per month, but decreased slightly to 31 800 SEK in 2023. Subsequently, a clear increase to 33 400 SEK was noted in 2024, representing a growth of about 5% between 2023 and 2024. This trend can be explained by an increased demand for skilled craftsmen in the trade and industry, where specialized skills such as lacquering are becoming more valued. Salary development is also influenced by regional demand, automation, and the availability of trained workforce. The recovery after a temporary dip indicates that the profession maintains a stable position in the job market, especially within the private sector and specialized furniture workshops.

Furniture painter salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,700 SEK/month (woman)
• Highest salary: 35,600 SEK/month (man, private employee)
• Hourly wage: 201 SEK
• Men's average salary: 33 700 SEK
• Women's average salary: 31,700 SEK (94% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Limited available data

Education and qualifications

To work as a furniture painter, a vocational high school education in crafts, industry, or wood technology is usually required. Practical experience and specialized knowledge in lacquering, paint, and material selection are highly valuable and can be acquired through education and work. Many employers also require certifications or proof of completed courses in occupational health and safety, as the profession involves handling chemicals.

• High school education: Crafts program or Industrial technology program (3 years)
• Internships: Workplace-based learning during education provides valuable experience
• Courses/certifications: Specialized courses in lacquering, color theory, and occupational safety are recommended
• Prerequisites: Basic education and interest in craftsmanship
• Further education: Opportunities for specialization in advanced lacquering or restoration

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, furniture painters are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, protective equipment, and sometimes bonuses or piecework systems for larger projects. Opportunities for further training and skill development are available, along with collective agreement-based insurances and pension contributions. In some cases, flexible working hours or the ability to influence working times are offered depending on the workplace.

Competition and challenges

Competition within the profession of furniture painters is influenced by factors such as the availability of trained workers, demand for specialized craftsmanship, and technological changes within the industry. Since the profession requires high precision and material knowledge, it can be difficult to find the right expertise, and some regions may have limited job opportunities. Automation and machine-based lacquering have also changed the job market, but there remains a strong demand for manual expertise in restoration and specialized assignments. Staying updated with new techniques and environmental requirements is an ongoing challenge for professionals in the field.

Tips for those who want to become furniture painters

To succeed as a furniture painter, it is beneficial to have an eye for detail and a genuine interest in color and form. Precision is crucial during preparation and application of lacquer, while patience and perseverance help manage longer projects and multiple tasks. Practical experience, such as through internships or summer jobs, provides valuable insights into the profession and enhances your skills. Initiative and willingness to learn new techniques are important qualities, especially as materials and methods constantly evolve. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues and understanding customer wishes. Being flexible and solution-oriented helps handle unexpected challenges and vary work tasks efficiently. Finally, attention to work environment and safety is an advantage, as the profession often involves handling chemicals and machinery.

Key facts about Furniture Painters

• Education level: Vocational high school (3 years)
• Work environment: Ventilated workshops and industrial settings
• Typical employment form: Full-time, but project employment also occurs
• Demand: 1,437 job openings in 2024
• Special skills: Lacquering techniques, color theory, material knowledge

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years of experience, a furniture painter can take on more advanced tasks, such as specializing in antique restoration or leading larger projects. Opportunities also exist to work as a consultant, start your own business, or further your education in related fields such as industrial lacquering or surface design. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for the "painters and industrial painters" profession, it is difficult to give an exact outlook due to limited data, but the current demand with 1,437 available jobs indicates good prospects for qualified individuals. The industry’s development is influenced by economic cycles and technological advances, but specialized craftsmen are expected to remain in demand.

Common questions about Furniture Painters

• What does a Furniture Painter earn?
  - The average salary for a furniture painter is 33 400 SEK per month, but this can vary depending on experience and workplace.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 31,700 SEK and men 33 700 SEK, which means women earn approximately 94% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a furniture painter?
  - Usually, a vocational high school education in crafts or industry, along with internships or specialized lacquering courses, is required.
• What is the job market like for furniture painters?
  - Currently, there are 1,437 job openings within the profession, but forecasts are uncertain due to limited data.
• What occupational health and safety risks exist?
  - The profession involves handling chemicals and dust, which requires good ventilation and protective gear.
• Can one specialize within the profession?
  - Yes, opportunities exist to become a specialist in areas such as antique restoration, industrial lacquering, or project management.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Accuracy, patience, material knowledge, and good communication skills are highly valued qualities for a furniture painter.