Online shopping has truly revolutionized home decorating. Unlike in generations past, you can purchase furniture with the click of a button. You have access to a seemingly unlimited supply of options from furniture makers all over the country—even the world! But even with everything available online, there can come a time when you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for. Maybe you’re trying to find a certain size of table for an oddly shaped room, or a piece to match or complement some furniture you already own. Some homeowners just really like a certain type of wood or want a custom paint or stain color that is hard to find online. In addition, the quality of the piece made by a true craftsman will likely be much higher than something you purchase from a company that sells mass-produced furniture.
When you want something truly unique, you’ll need to turn to a custom furniture maker. A custom furniture maker can design a piece to your exact specifications. You won’t have to compromise on any of the details or settle for something that is “close, but not quite right.” The only concession you may have to make is on price, since custom furniture tends to be pricier than mass-produced items.
The Difference Between Custom and Made-to-Order Furniture
Some furniture shoppers can get tripped up by the terminology. There is a difference between custom furniture and made-to-order furniture, as San Diego custom furniture maker Three Pines Wood Co. outlines in their blog.
Made-to-order furniture is built from an existing design once an order is placed. Typically, few (if any) modifications can be made to the design of a made-to-order piece. You may be able to specify a stain color or choose from a few hardware options, but beyond that, you probably won’t be able to customize your item.
Custom furniture, on the other hand, is designed just for you. You choose the size, style, and the materials that are used. A talented custom furniture maker will be able to construct a piece in any style you choose.
There are custom furniture makers in just about any area of the country. If you can find one near you, you will likely be able to save on the expensive shipping charges often associated with buying furniture online.
Jack Ward, owner and lead craftsman at Three Pines Wood Co. in San Diego, says, “When you order from a local custom furniture maker that offers free delivery, the price you pay can sometimes be comparable to a mid-range to high-end retail furniture company that mass produces their products, simply due to the savings on delivery charges.”
Realistic Renderings from Custom Furniture Makers
Some people hesitate to order from custom furniture makers because they are afraid that the piece they order won’t turn out how they envisioned it. If this is a fear of yours, make sure you go with a custom furniture maker who offers realistic design renderings. This way, you can approve or make changes to the design before construction begins. You will likely have to put down a deposit or pay a design fee for this service, but typically, a furniture builder will apply that amount to the overall cost of the project.
If you’re looking for something specific or unique, a custom furniture maker is your best option—maybe even your only option!
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