Having your timber furniture customised can provide several benefits over purchasing pre-made, mass-produced furniture. Here are some reasons why you might consider customising your timber furniture:
- Tailored to your needs: Customised timber furniture can be designed to meet your specific needs and preferences. For example, you can choose the size, shape, and style of the furniture to fit the space and decor of your home or office.
- Unique and personalised: Customised timber furniture can be made to reflect your personal style and taste. You can choose the type of wood, finish, and detailing to create a piece that is truly unique and reflective of your individuality.
- High-quality craftsmanship: Customised timber furniture is often crafted by skilled artisans who take pride in their work. This can result in furniture that is of higher quality and more durable than mass-produced furniture.
- Investment: Customised timber furniture can be viewed as an investment, as it is often of higher quality and can hold its value better than mass-produced furniture. It may even appreciate over time if it is well-made and well-maintained.
- Environmentally sustainable: Customised timber furniture can be made from sustainably sourced materials, which can help to reduce the impact on the environment. Additionally, customisation can help to reduce waste, as the furniture is made to the exact specifications needed, rather than being mass-produced and potentially discarded if it doesn’t sell.
Hardwood versus Softwood
Hardwood and softwood are two distinct categories of wood that are classified based on their physical characteristics and tree anatomy.
Hardwood comes from trees that have broad leaves, such as oak, maple, and cherry. Hardwood is generally denser and harder than softwood, which makes it more durable and suitable for furniture, flooring, and other high-end applications.
Softwood, on the other hand, comes from trees that have needle-like leaves, such as pine, cedar, and spruce. Softwood is generally less dense and less expensive than hardwood. It is commonly used for construction, such as in building frames and other structural components, as well as in the production of paper and cardboard.
However, the terms “hardwood” and “softwood” can be a bit misleading, as some hardwoods, such as balsa wood, are actually softer than some softwoods, such as yew wood. Additionally, the terms do not necessarily indicate the quality of the wood or its suitability for a specific purpose. For example, some softwoods, like pine, can be very durable and strong, making them excellent for construction purposes.
Ultimately, the choice between hardwood and softwood depends on the specific application, as well as factors such as cost, availability, and personal preference.
Timber furniture finishes. Lacquer or oil?
Lacquer and oil are two popular types of finishes for timber furniture, and each has its own benefits.
Lacquer finishes create a hard, durable, and glossy surface on timber furniture. They are easy to apply and dry quickly, allowing for multiple coats to be added in a short amount of time. Lacquer finishes are also resistant to water, heat, and chemicals, making them ideal for high-use furniture. They come in a range of colours and can be sanded and polished to achieve a high-gloss finish. Additionally, lacquer finishes can be repaired easily if they become scratched or damaged.
Oil finishes, on the other hand, penetrate the wood fibres to nourish and protect the wood from the inside out. They provide a natural, matte finish that enhances the beauty of the timber without altering its colour. They require more maintenance than lacquer finishes however can be easily renewed by adding another coat of oil. Oil finishes also provide a smooth, tactile surface that feels good to the touch.
In summary, lacquer finishes provide a hard, glossy, and durable surface that is resistant to water, heat, and chemicals. Oil finishes, on the other hand, provide a natural, matte finish that nourishes and protects the wood from the inside out, while also offering a smooth, tactile surface.
The choice between lacquer and oil finishes will depend on personal preference, the intended use of the furniture, and the type of wood being used.