Incorporating bespoke wooden furniture is one of the best ways to transform any living space. But getting custom furniture comes with its own challenges. Indeed, you’ll have to think about a couple of things such as what materials to use or how much space to allot. So before you place a custom order, here are some things you should do first:
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Learn How to Care for It
Depending on the material and finish, your custom wooden furniture might need special maintenance. A good rule of thumb is to keep any piece of wooden furniture safe from moisture, as water exposure can cause warping. However, this can also depend on the amount and type of finish applied.
For example, some pieces such as marri or jarrah furniture may come protected with a clear layer of lacquer. If this is the case, you’ll only need to wipe them down with a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or grime. Once you’re done, wipe off any excess water with a dry cloth.
To be on the safe side, it’s still best to ask the bespoke furniture company for specific maintenance tips.
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Take the Correct Measurements
Getting the right measurements is a must when ordering bespoke furniture. After all, you won’t have much use for a table or chair that doesn’t fit in your room.
Be sure to measure the length, width and height of the desired piece at least twice. Then, use tape to mark off the area the furniture will take up. Doing this will help you better visualize how much space you’ll need.
Also, don’t forget to add some allowance as you might need extra space around the furniture. For example, you’ll need some clearance so you can walk around the piece. You should also measure your doorways to make sure the furniture can fit through them.
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Ask for Samples of the Material
When picking what type of wood to use, it’s always best to get your hands on an actual sample whenever possible. This is because certain materials may look quite different once you see them with your own eyes.
One reason for this is because wood tones can differ from one brand to another. Certain timbers may also have slightly different colorations. For instance, Tasmanian oak can come in various shades. This can vary from straw to reddish brown to different shades of yellow.
The type of finish used can also affect the look and feel of the final piece. Hence, don’t forget to ask the company for samples of their available finishes per type of timber. The most common types of finishes are glossy and matte. Some lacquers may also tint or stain the wood, with some a bit more than others.
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Check the Company’s Return Policy
Buyer’s remorse can happen even to the best of us. Sometimes, your bespoke furniture just doesn’t come out the way you envisioned it to. Maybe it doesn’t evoke the feeling you were going for or isn’t comfortable enough for daily use. Perhaps you’ve even decided that it requires too much maintenance.
In any case, it’s always important to know your chosen company’s return policy. While most companies will have to charge you a restocking fee, that’s better than being stuck with a piece you can’t use. So make sure to read their terms and conditions so you know exactly what to expect.
In Conclusion
Bespoke wood furniture can cost quite a significant amount, so it’s in your best interest to get it done right. But as long as you keep these considerations in mind, you should be able to avoid the most common mistakes. Once your custom piece arrives at your doorstep, we’re sure it’ll be worth all the time, energy, and money you’ve invested.
Pinstripe Magazine Staff
Online Men’s Lifestyle Magazine on Gear, Grooming, Girls, Gadgets