Riverside Refinishing

10/09/2026

As a tradesperson, I love a challenge, and this project certainly proved to be just that!

I was recently asked by repeat clients to help finish a beautiful new staircase installed by the very talented craftsman, Dave Crispin. I always love working on Dave’s staircases. The attention to detail, exceptional sanding, and careful use of glue are hallmarks of his craftsmanship. It makes a world of difference when you’re the one responsible for bringing the finished product to life!

Funny enough, I helped these same clients refinish their previous staircase nine years ago (minus the treads and spindles). It was a pleasure to be asked back to help with another stage of their home renovation.

This time, the goal was to match the staircase to the new engineered flooring throughout the home. And if you’ve ever worked with engineered flooring, you know that matching its colour can be tricky (8 hours worth of tricky)! These floors can contain upwards of seven different hues, all contributing to the overall look.

Challenge accepted!

I put on my mad scientist hat and got to work experimenting. Five stains and one pigment later, I finally landed on the colour I was after!

My clients are thrilled with the result, and although I’m feeling a little sore, I’m just as thrilled. These stairs are absolutely glorious!

Now, the wrought iron spindles can be installed, bringing them one step closer to checking another big item off their renovation list.

It’s always a pleasure to work for wonderful repeat clients, and I truly appreciate the trust they place in me to get the job done right. After all, this is where 25 years of experience really comes into play. Sometimes, getting the perfect colour takes a little patience, a lot of experimenting, and knowing how to make all those hues work together.

Another challenging project completed, and one beautiful staircase ready for its finishing touches!

Client’s vision is my motivation.

09/14/2026

A huge thank you to all of my wonderful clients who have taken time out of their day to reach out and wish me a Happy Birthday! ❤️

It truly means so much that you would think of me and take a moment to send a birthday wish. I appreciate each and every one of you more than you know!

So, at 55, I think I’ve found my new mantra:

Age is just the number of years the world has been enjoying me! 😉🎂🥂

Here’s to 55—and to making every year count! ❤️

07/17/2026

West Grey residents! Be advised that there is a total ban on outdoor fires! This includes people with backyard burn bins that are restricted in urban areas, but sadly still get used.

Media Advisory – Temporary Total Fire Ban in Effect in West Grey

To view the full media advisory: https://www.westgrey.com/news/posts/temporary-total-fire-ban-in-effect-in-west-grey/

07/09/2026

One of the most rewarding facets of my business is the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people. My clients place their trust in my skills and craftsmanship to transform their furniture into the vision they have for it, and I never take that responsibility for granted.

One of the most important parts of that journey is communication. Taking the time to understand exactly what my clients are hoping to achieve helps ensure their vision becomes a reality. More often than not, that trust leads to repeat clients—and sometimes, lasting friendships.

The owners of these beautiful solid oak pieces are exactly that. Not only have they become repeat clients, but they've also become friends. As an added surprise, we even discovered that we're distantly related!

The goal for these exceptionally well-made pieces was to move away from the dated golden oak finish and create a warmer, more contemporary tone that would complement the other furnishings in their home. I couldn't be happier with the transformation, and I think we achieved exactly what they envisioned.

06/27/2026

ATTENTION

For anyone wishing to sign the petition holding the Municipality of West Grey accountable to the order they placed on the door of the former New Life Mills Feed Mill (not the sawmill), please feel free to stop by Riversong Gallery and speak with Gary or Pat.

Unfortunately, there has been a great deal of misinformation circulating regarding this situation by individuals who have not experienced the effects of living in close proximity to this structurally unsafe building.

This petition is about ensuring that the concerns of neighbouring residents are heard and that accountability and public safety remain the priority.

06/20/2026

It's been insanely busy lately, so my posts have definitely dwindled. I tend to step away from social media when things get overly hectic, as it's better to focus solely on the task at hand—getting each project refinished and returned to my clients in a reasonable timeframe.

A special thank you to those clients who have so kindly said, "No rush!" lately. Your patience and understanding truly make a difference, and it is so greatly appreciated.

I received this beautiful bench a few weeks ago, but with the major humidity we've been experiencing, the finishing process took a little longer than anticipated. I met with my clients after hours for pickup last night, and it was so nice to chat with them. This morning, I received an email from them. What a wonderful way to start my day—opening that email to find a kind message and a photo of the bench in its new home.

There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a piece you've poured your heart into being enjoyed once again.

Thank you for making the trip and trusting Riverside Refinishing with your bench refinishing project. Your support means the world to my small business!

Before and after photos show the transformation!! Enjoy!

05/14/2026

This great hall tree got updated from golden oak to a custom lighter colour. It completely changed the ferl of the piece!

05/14/2026

Was asked to assist with a refinishing project in a rental unit. My client was trying to achieve a different look but decided Pinterest didn't have any idea how to properly achieve it! I came in and took golden oak into a hue and tone that would complement the engineered flooring.

05/14/2026

This was a special Christmas present for my client's Granddaughter. It just turned out so well, and I was told that the little one just loves her Horsey!!! ❤️