Finding and Commissioning High-Quality Solid Wood Furniture
Introduction
When seeking to find or commission new solid wood furniture for your home, it's important to consider several factors including the type of wood, design preferences, and budget. Here are some steps and tips to help you find the perfect custom-made furniture piece for your home.
Local Artisans and Custom Woodworking Shops
One of the best ways to find high-quality solid wood furniture is by reaching out to local artisans, furniture makers, or custom woodworking shops. Most of these craftsmen pride themselves on their handcrafted, bespoke pieces. They understand the nuances of wood and can tailor the furniture to your specific needs.
To commission new solid wood furniture, start by providing your local artisans with detailed requirements and preferences. Specify the type of wood, design style, and your budget constraints. This will help them create a piece that perfectly matches your vision.
Online Platforms Connecting Customers with Craftsmen
For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, there are numerous platforms that connect you directly with skilled artisans. Websites like Etsy, Behance, and Handmade have a vast network of talented furniture makers who can create bespoke pieces for you.
These platforms often feature a wide range of styles and materials, allowing you to find exactly what you're looking for. By specifying your preferences in the search bar, you can filter results to find the perfect piece.
Exploring Artisan Co-Ops and Joinery Services
If you're looking for a more specialized approach, consider exploring artisan co-ops. Artisan co-ops are groups of independent artists who come together to share resources and create a community of skilled craftsmen. They often have a deep understanding of fine restoration and can provide you with unique and handmade furniture pieces.
Key terms to search for include 'cabinet maker', 'joinery', and 'fine restoration'. These terms will lead you to the right community of skilled artisans. However, be prepared for higher prices, as hand-crafted professional furniture is often more expensive.
Unique Examples of Solid Wood Furniture
Handcrafted furniture can be an exceptional choice, but it often comes with a higher price tag. Let's explore some unique examples to illustrate the value of solid wood furniture.
The Grant Rocker
One example is the Grant Rocker by Gerry Grant. This piece is not only beautiful but also highly sought after. Gerry harvests the wood, dries it, and makes the furniture to order. He does all of the work himself, with the help of just one apprentice.
The unique style of the Grant Rocker is not cheap, but it's worth every penny for its uniques features and handcrafted quality. Take a look at a picture of a solid walnut Grant Rocker similar to mine. This piece is a testament to the skill and attention to detail that goes into each piece of handcrafted furniture.
Furniture From Family Members
Family members can also be valuable sources of unique, solid wood furniture. For instance, my father-in-law makes furniture but it's not for sale. We have a couple of his pieces, and they are a constant source of admiration and conversation in the home.
Exploring Specialty Stores
If you're having difficulty locating independent woodworkers, specialty stores like WoodCraft can be a valuable resource. These stores cater to custom woodworkers and their staff can provide valuable insights into finding artisans who may be able to create custom pieces for you, even on a limited budget.
These stores often have local relationships with skilled craftsmen and can help you find the perfect piece to complement your home.
Conclusion
Selecting high-quality solid wood furniture requires careful consideration of your preferences, budget, and the type of wood you want. Whether you choose to commission a piece from a local artisan, explore online platforms, or visit specialty stores, there are plenty of options available. Handcrafted furniture may come with a higher price tag, but the unique and unparalleled quality make it a worthwhile investment.