Frequently asked questions.
Process & Getting Started
What is the process for commissioning a custom piece?
Contact us, and fill out our intake form to give us enough info to give you an estimate. Then we go back and forth on designs and samples until we are both satisfied. I often provide a 3d model of the piece to show the shape and proportion from more angles. Then we begin work after a down payment.
Do I need to have a full design ready before contacting you?
Absolutely not. Many projects have begun with a simple pencil drawing of a client or nothing at all. If there is no design in mind, I like to visit the space if possible in order to come up with a design that will fit your space.
Can you base a design on something I’ve seen?
It is very helpful to have inspiration photos if you have them for us to design your piece.
What information should I provide for an accurate quote?
We have a handy dandy intake form for custom work for you to fill out. Here
Timeline & Scheduling
How long does a custom piece typically take to build?
Our current lead time is 8 - 12 weeks
Can you accommodate rush orders?
That depends on cost and complexity.
How far in advance should I reach out to start a project?
As soon as you start thinking about the project preferably.
Pricing & Payments
How is pricing determined for custom furniture?
Simply put, material costs and labor costs. How much does the wood and hardware cost and how many hours do I need to complete the project.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes, generally 50% to start.
What factors increase the cost of a piece (materials, complexity, finish, etc.)?
Complexity is the most common price increase, due to the extra time required to tackle tough problems. Materials vary widely in cost. Wood is never cheap but it can be astronomically expensive for some exotic or rare figured lumber. I have a finish system I use and samples I have developed that showcases the natural beauty, sheen, and feel of wood. Other finishing requirements outside of my standard array of finishes is an extra cost.
Materials & Options
What wood species do you offer?
Almost anything within reason. I prefer native American hardwoods, but many varieties of wood are immediately available to me in southern California. If you have a very specific lumber in mind it may require shipping it in, but the only obstacles are money and time.
Can you help me choose the right wood for my needs?
Definitely. Most people are not dealing with wood all day every day like me. Allow me to use my expertise to guide you to something that will fit your use case and aesthetic needs.
How durable is solid wood compared to veneer or engineered wood?
Without diving into the boring details of the pros and cons of each, it really comes down to this. Wood is a natural and destructible material. You bought a beautiful hand made piece of furniture. You should treat it nicely. Wood is tough, but requires care of use. Use coasters.
Do you use sustainably sourced wood?
As often as I can. If you have a particular concern about this, I can tell you what options we have for lumber choice.
Design & Customization
How custom can the piece be—can you create something completely unique?
Without much hubris, but enough pride, I can say we can make anything with enough money and time.
Can you build off a drawing or sketch I provide?
We can start with a sketch, full drawing, or nothing at all!
Do you offer different finish options?
Yes, I can provide finish samples. Some woods have more finish samples than others.
Can I request changes after the project has started?
If revisions need to be made after fabrication has started, the extra costs incurred will need to be paid before continuing the build and may prolong the lead time.
Delivery & Installation
Do you offer delivery?
Yes!
How much does delivery cost?
That depends on the size of the piece and distance it needs to travel.
Do you deliver outside of Orange County or Southern California?
Yes, we partner with different shipping providers for each case
What if my space has tight stairs, narrow doors, or other tricky access?
That is something we have you provide on the intake form so that, if need be, we can design the piece around those complications.
Quality, Care & Maintenance
How should I care for and maintain my wood furniture?
No harsh cleaners, a simple damp rag followed by paper towel drying should be the extent of cleaning. Use coasters, don’t write on the surface, wipe up spills immediately, etc.
What happens if my table develops small cracks or movement over time?
Wood is a natural material that has movement with humidity changes forever. Small cracks are inherent to the material and normal. Some small cracks can be seen in dry seasons but not wet seasons and vice versa. It is in the nature of wood.
Are your finishes kid- and pet-friendly?
yes, I use a natural hard-wax oil mixture that is very green compared to some commercial finishes.
How resistant are your finishes to heat, stains, and scratches?
The trade off of using a natural finish is that it offers less protection along with its enhanced beauty. Strong synthetic finishes offer more protection, but look and feel like plastic. Our furniture is lovingly made, and requires a little care in its use. Coasters are your friend. Wipe up spills immediately. Don’t use a pen and paper directly on the surface, etc.
Revisions, Returns & Policies
What is your policy on revisions during the design process?
Going back and forth on the design is a part of the design process. After the down payment however, revisions can cause delays and increased material costs after fabrication has begun. These costs will need to be paid up front before work continues.
Do you accept returns or exchanges on custom items?
No.
Logistics & Other Practical Questions
Do you ship out of state?
Yes!
Can you repair an existing piece of furniture?
I tend to avoid repair. It can often cost as much time as a new piece of furniture.
How far out are you typically booked?
Current lead time is between 8 to 12 weeks. This could increase if my schedule fills up.
Do you offer commercial pieces for offices or businesses?
I am happy to provide custom furniture for all situations.
On the variability of lumber
Every order is made custom with our human hands, but more importantly, wood is a natural resource. A tree takes years to grow, harvest, and season for lumber. Each tree on this fine planet is a unique expression of its species and every board from that tree is quite literally a different cross section of that expression. This is where some of the magic of wood lies. Every piece is different in that all wood is different. Uniformity has its place in beauty, but the raw variation in wood has not ceased to amaze me. That being said, we choose our lumber very meticulously for quality and cut.
Why the long wait on custom orders?
We work as quickly as we are able, and no faster. We take our time to do it correct the first time. Rushing leads to mistakes, mistakes lead to lost time, lost time leads to more stress and haste, which can lead to even more disastrous consequences. I recently read a description of woodworking machines as “Very Patient Meat Eaters”. So they are, and I am speaking from harrowing experience.
We do our work in a timely manner, and do our best to be realistic and communicative with our deadlines. We want all our clients and us to be proud of our product, not our deadlines.