From Furniture to Cabinets: Chrissy Rollison’s Journey in Finishing

Summary: In this episode of The Bearded Finisher podcast, Zach Shrum interviews Chrissy Rollison from Winegardener Fine Finishing and Coatings. Chrissy shares her journey from painting furniture to kitchen cabinets. She discusses her experience with different products and tools, such as Renner coatings, the Titan ED655 pump, and the Harbor Freight Black Widow gun. They explore the importance of continuous learning, attending workshops, and staying updated with the latest industry trends. Chrissy and Zach also talk about the role of sharing knowledge in the finishing industry, emphasizing how industry leaders like Nick Slavik and Dennis Rodriguez promote transparency and community. They delve into the challenges and rewards of running a finishing business, stressing the value of education, research, and testing to find the best products and practices. Additionally, they discuss the need for better communication and support in online communities and the importance of getting professional-grade products into local paint stores. Outside of work, Chrissy has a passion for plants. Keywords: painting business, furniture painting, kitchen cabinets, industrial coatings, Renner, Titan ED655, Harbor Freight Black Widow, Fine Paints of Europe, classes, continuous learning, finishing industry, transparency, industry leaders, challenges, adapting, education, research, communication, support, professional-grade products, local paint stores, plants Takeaways: Chrissy started by painting furniture and eventually moved into kitchen cabinets. She has experience with products like Renner coatings, the Titan ED655, and the Black Widow gun. Continuous learning, attending workshops, and testing products are key to professional growth in the painting industry. Chrissy highlights the importance of finding the right tools and products for each individual’s needs. Sharing knowledge is essential in the finishing industry, with leaders like Nick Slavik and Dennis Rodriguez promoting transparency. Running a finishing business requires constant learning and adapting to new trends. Research and education are crucial for finding what works best for each business. Better communication and support in online communities can enhance the experience for industry professionals. Access to professional-grade products in local stores would benefit more finishers. Chrissy’s hobby outside of finishing is taking care of plants. Titles: Passion and Dedication: Insights from a Professional Painter The Importance of Continuous Learning in the Painting Business Chrissy Rollison's Passion for Plants Continuous Learning and Adapting to New Trends Sound Bites: “I started young, in high school. We moved into a house, and I found a dresser and acetone in the basement. I stripped it with acetone.” “I found PBG Breakthrough.” “I saw a video of you spraying, I think it was circa out of a 3M HVLP.” “Nick Slavik sent me his SOPs for his entire business. I couldn’t believe it.” “Dennis Rodriguez is another one.” “I miss the control, but I walked out of here at 4:30 yesterday. I was home by seven.” Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Location 02:48 - Chrissy’s Journey in the Painting Business 09:24 - Transition to Winegardener Fine Finishing and Coatings 18:38 - Working with Winegardener and Product Preferences 26:21 - Favorite Guns and Continuous Learning 29:32 - Attending Classes and Workshops 31:05 - Sharing Information and Transparency in the Industry 33:43 - Industry Leaders and Changing the Industry 36:08 - Challenges and Rewards of Running a Business 38:26 - Continuous Learning and Adapting to Trends 45:15 - Professional-Grade Products in Local Paint Stores 53:17 - Improving Communication and Online Communities 59:23 - Chrissy’s Passion for Plants