AFURA | American furniture upcycling & restoration assoc

What is AFURA?

At AFURA, we envision a future where furniture is no longer disposable, but valued, restored, and reborn. We believe that upcycling and restoration are powerful acts of creativity and environmental stewardship — essential tools for reducing waste, preserving craftsmanship, and telling new stories through old materials.

Our mission is to elevate the art and business of furniture transformation by supporting skilled artisans, setting professional standards, and advocating for sustainable practices in the design and home industries. We aim to bridge tradition and innovation, ensuring that every piece saved from a landfill becomes part of a more conscious and connected future.

AFURA will be a hub for education, certification, community, and advocacy — a place where artists, makers, refinishers, and eco-conscious brands unite to shape a more beautiful and sustainable built environment, one piece of furniture at a time.

AFURA's MISSION

AFURA champions sustainable craftsmanship by uniting and uplifting professional furniture upcyclers and restorers across America.

AFURA's FUTURE

AFURA’s future is to become the national voice and standard-bearer for sustainable furniture artistry — offering certification, education, and advocacy that elevates upcycling and restoration into respected, professional trades

AFURA's Membership Platform

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MEMBERSHIP LEVELS

1. Artisan Member

For working upcyclers, refinishers, and restorers

✅ Use of “AFURA Member” badge
✅ Personal profile in member directory
✅ Access to workshops + webinars
✅ Discounts on tools/supplies from partners
✅ Member forum + peer support
✅ Eligible for certification (when launched)

Cost: $79/year or $250 Founding Lifetime (limited time)

2. Emerging Artist Member

For beginners, hobbyists, and students

✅ Access to beginner-friendly trainings
✅ Quarterly Q&A with certified pros
✅ Intro listing in directory (opt-in)
✅ Upgrade path to Artisan Member anytime

Cost: $39/year

3. Founding Member (Limited Release)

For early supporters and experienced artisans

✅ Lifetime “Founding Member” badge
✅ Premium placement in directory
✅ First access to certification
✅ Invite to Founders Roundtable (virtual)
✅ Swag kit (sticker, certificate, badge)

Cost: $250 one-time (limited to 100)

4. Vendor Partner / Industry Ally

For brands, suppliers, and tool companies

✅ Logo on AFURA website + events
✅ Access to artisan feedback + surveys
✅ Opportunity to co-host trainings
✅ Featured in member emails + socials
✅ Product placement in tutorials
✅ “Official Partner” designation

Tiers:

Founding Partner: $2,500–$5,000
Supporting Sponsor: $750–$1,500
In-Kind Sponsor: Product/tools

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Members-Only Benefits (Platform Features)

✅ Member directory with searchable specialties
✅ Discussion forums (categorized by topic & region)
✅ Monthly live workshop or pro roundtable
✅ Library of how-tos, templates, and contracts
✅ Resource hub: grants, legal, pricing, sourcing
✅ Quarterly digital magazine: AFURA Journal