Flipping furniture is not just about creativity and a good eye for style—it’s about having the right tools for the job! Whether you’re a seasoned flipper or just starting out, having the right equipment can make all the difference in transforming pieces from tired to terrific. In this list, I’ll break down 25 must-have tools that will make your furniture flipping projects easier and more successful.
1. A Good Sander
A good sander is required for prepping your furniture for paint or stain. You can choose to buy an expensive sanding kit like the popular SurfPrep Sander Kit, which is great for flipping but can be costly initially.
Instead of a kit, choose a good random orbital sander and mouse detail sander. These together will do all you need when flipping furniture. I have been using the Bosch Random Orbital Sander for 5+ years and its still working great for me. I also have a Black+Decker Mouse Detail Sander that helps out too.
Don’t forget to stock up on high-quality sandpaper, from 80 grit for heavy sanding to 220+ for finishing.
2. Paint Sprayer
If you want a smooth, professional finish, a paint sprayer is a game-changer. Wagner sprayers and the HomeRight Super Finish Max are excellent options for beginners. For more advanced projects, consider Graco or airless sprayers. You can even go for HVLP sprayers that connect to a compressor. A spray tent will help keep the mess contained!
3. Power Drill/Driver Set
A cordless drill is perfect for drilling holes and driving screws, making assembly and disassembly a breeze. I recommend starting with an affordable wired drill if you’re on a budget. For more delicate tasks like installing furniture hardware, an electric screwdriver is great because it provides less power, helping prevent screws from stripping. If you can, a cordless drill is always nice to have around! I use mine regularly.
4. Carbide Scraper/Scraper Tools
Scrapers are amazing for removing old paint and varnish. The Bahco carbide scraper is my favorite—it makes stripping surfaces so much easier. Hyde contour scrapers are excellent for detailed areas, while card scrapers are great at times too. These tools can save you hours of work!
5. Good Quality Paint Brushes
Sometimes a sprayer isn’t the best option, and that’s where quality paint brushes come in. The Zibra line of brushes is specifically designed for furniture painting, they are high quality and produce a great smooth finish. The Wooster Shortcut brush is my go-to at nearby hardware stores or a quick Amazon order.
6. Measuring Tape
Accuracy is everything when it comes to furniture flipping. Whether you’re cutting wood, placing new hardware, or simply checking the size of a piece, a good measuring tape will help you avoid costly mistakes. Keep it handy for every project! Remember when selling you need to measure the piece and add the dimensions to your listing.
7. Respirator/Dust Masks
Safety first! When you’re sanding, painting, or using harsh chemicals, you need to protect your lungs. I recommend 3M respirators for when you’re using strong products, and good dust masks for everyday sanding. It’s one of those tools you’ll be glad you had.
8. Utility Knife
A sharp utility knife is perfect for cutting through old upholstery, wood veneer, trimming painter’s tape, or even opening your supply boxes. This is a small but essential tool that can save you time and effort during your furniture flips.
9. Good Scissors
Good high-quality scissors are a must for tasks like cutting rags, trimming tape, or even opening packages. You’ll use these more than you think! Invest in a sharp, reliable pair so you’re not struggling with dull blades in the middle of a project.
10. Clamps
Clamps hold things in place while you work—whether you’re gluing, sanding, or waiting for something to dry. They’re especially useful for repairing loose joints or holding glued veneer patches together. You don’t need a huge set, but having a few good clamps will definitely come in handy.
11. Putty Knife
A good putty knife is great for applying wood filler to cover up dents, holes, or scratches. It can be great for other fillers like Bondo, too. You can also use it to scrape away old paint or other materials along with your heat gun.
12. Shop Vacuum
I use a shop vacuum daily, whether it’s connected to my tools directly or to clean up things on the floor. Investing in a good shop vacuum will help keep your space much cleaner, plus it eliminates dangerous dust particles in the air when you connect it to your sander/other tools.
13. Protective Gloves
Keeping your hands safe is important, especially when working with chemical strippers, stains, paints, or even splinters from old wood. A good pair of protective gloves will shield your skin and make cleanup easier. Disposable nitrile gloves are perfect for messy jobs, while heavier work gloves can protect against sharp edges.
14. Safety Glasses/Goggles
Your eyes are priceless, so don’t take risks when sanding, cutting, or using power tools. Safety glasses or goggles keep dust, debris, and chemicals from getting into your eyes. They’re lightweight and comfortable, and an absolute must for every project. I wear mine every project, do your best not to forget to throw them on.
15. Furniture Dolly
A furniture dolly is a lifesaver when it comes to moving heavy pieces around your workspace or transporting finished pieces. Save your back and make the process easier by investing in a good dolly. Even better, you can often find them secondhand! I also have little feet dollies that go on each leg of furniture, making it easy to roll around my workspace.
16. Saws (Hand or Power)
Having a saw on hand allows you to make custom cuts, repair broken pieces, or modify furniture. Whether you start with a simple hand saw or go for a power tool like a jigsaw or miter saw, this tool opens up a whole new level of creativity in your flips. Please make sure to properly learn to use these tools as improper use can lead to serious injuries.
17. Level
There’s nothing worse than finishing a project, only to realize it’s off-balance! A level ensures your furniture is perfectly straight, especially when you’re reassembling or adding new pieces like legs/feet. It’s a simple tool, but it can prevent crooked disasters. Also, long levels are great for making straight lines if you don’t have a square.
18. Heat Gun
A heat gun is an excellent tool for paint removal, especially when you’re dealing with multiple layers of old tough paint. Wagner heat guns are a great option, they heat up quickly and making the stripping process a lot easier. It can also help with bending or shaping certain materials. I wish I used a heat gun on a couple of projects looking back, could have saved me hours.
19. Moving Blankets
Moving blankets are perfect for protecting your furniture when you’re shipping it to its new home or even just moving it around yourself. They help prevent scratches and dings, keeping your refinished pieces in pristine condition. A simple but effective way to avoid unnecessary damages.
20. Cabinet Hardware Jig
Installing hardware can be tricky, but a cabinet hardware jig takes the guesswork out of it. This tool helps you accurately place knobs and pulls, making sure everything is perfectly lined up. It’s a small tool, but it makes a big difference when adding the finishing touches to your flips.
21. Cleaning Tools
Before you can start flipping, you need to clean your furniture thoroughly. Scrub brushes, buckets, and cleaning solutions are essential for removing dirt, grime, or old residue. Proper cleaning sets the foundation for a great refinish and makes sure your paint or stain adheres properly. I like to use Krud Kutter as my degreaser!
22. Pick Tool Set
Pick tools are a lifesaver when it comes to detailed paint removal. These small tools help you reach into tight corners or decorative carvings where a sander or scraper can’t go. They’re perfect for those hard-to-reach spots that need a little extra attention during a restoration.
23.Workbench/Worktable
Having a dedicated space to work is a game-changer. A sturdy workbench or worktable gives you a flat surface for sanding, cutting, and painting. Plus, it helps keep your tools organized and within reach, making your workspace more efficient and comfortable.
24. Hammer/Rubber Mallet
Whether you’re assembling furniture or gently tapping parts back into place, a hammer and rubber mallet are essential tools. The hammer is perfect for driving nails or dismantling old pieces, while the mallet is great for applying force without damaging delicate surfaces. I use both regularly.
25. Carpenter Pencils
Simple yet effective, carpenter pencils are perfect for marking measurements or making notes directly on your furniture. They’re easy to use and won’t break as easily as standard pencils, making them a must-have for every project. I use one almost every project!