DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION
Assessment: The first step is understanding everything you're looking for in a custom piece of furniture: dimensions, what functions you want to include, how you envision using it, what styles you like, weight considerations, wood choices, your budget and timeframe, and any other factors that are important to you. There are really "no boundaries" as to what I can build into your custom furniture. Once I understand the general scale of the work involved, I'll provide you with a general timeframe for completing your project.
As part of this step, it's important for me to understand the kinds of design aesthetics that appeal to you, so it's helpful if you can provide me with photos/links/examples of the kinds of woodwork that you're drawn to. At this stage, I'll also review my portfolio of work with you to illustrate the various styles, materials combinations and range of options available.
Design: Once we select a style, I'll produce drawings and specifications which we will review and modify as needed. We'll consider alternative wood and hardware choices and finalize plans for building your custom piece. At this stage we'll select materials and finish choices that fit with your personal preferences and budget.
Construction: Once the design is finalized, I secure materials and start building your furniture. I prefer to use traditional construction techniques to produce high quality pieces that will last a lifetime. Joinery techniques I typically employ include mortise and tenon joints, biscuit joints, as well as straight glue joints. For drawers, I can use traditional wood rail systems for all-wood construction, or metal drawer glide hardware.
Finishing: There are two major steps in the finishing process: sanding and applying a finish. Proper sanding prior to finishing is essential to producing a quality look and feel. My preferred finish is a hand-rubbed oil finish. Hand-rubbed oils provide a great look, soft feel, long-term durability, and ease of care that can't be found with other finish choices. I typically apply 6-8 coats for a hand-rubbed finish, sanding between coats.
Delivery: I can arrange shipping to any location in the continental United States and Canada. I can personally deliver all furniture I build that's going to the San Francisco Bay Area, the greater Sacramento area and Sierra foothills, and any communities surrounding Reno/Tahoe.