Decisions, Choices and Other Stuff That Can Be Testy
First, get an idea of the general style of the piece that you are considering. Will it be modern,
contemporary, rustic? This is likely influenced by the design of the home or room and/or in the style of
other pieces in the same area. Compiling pictures is usually a good way to start.
The next step is to figure out the size of the piece, which is usually determined by where it will live. Most types of furniture do have suggested heights such as a dining table which would need to be tall enough so the chairs will slide underneath.
Third, determine the color you would like the piece to be. Of course, woods exhibit specific colors when finished, but dyes, stains and paints can be applied as well. However, adding color is a double-edged sword. While you have an infinite number of choices with color, if the piece becomes scratched, then the underlying wood is visible through the finish. Once the color and wood is selected, I will make a few sample boards using the color and top coat. At this time, we will decide the desired degree of reflectivity (gloss).
Now that you have a few details, I will make a sketch of your piece. It now becomes a bit more personal. The sketch can be refined but eventually it becomes a plan including dimensions and other necessary information for the construction, much like an architectural drawing.
At this point, I will begin the work of cutting and gluing. From time to time, I will send out pictures of the progress or ask you to stop by, if possible, to discuss any issues.
Once I start putting on the finish, the wood begins to take on its desired look. I will send out more pictures or schedule another visit if you want. I usually hand rub the last few coats to address all the imperfections and to adjust the surface to the desired reflectivity.
When the piece is completed, the top coat (such as an oil based varnish) may take a few weeks to cure. The curing process is critical. It is during this process that the varnish develops its durability so it will not scratch. Often, I will keep a piece an extra week or so to ensure that the finish is set and piece is ready to be used. I usually complete the finishing process with a paste wax.
The next step is to figure out the size of the piece, which is usually determined by where it will live. Most types of furniture do have suggested heights such as a dining table which would need to be tall enough so the chairs will slide underneath.
Third, determine the color you would like the piece to be. Of course, woods exhibit specific colors when finished, but dyes, stains and paints can be applied as well. However, adding color is a double-edged sword. While you have an infinite number of choices with color, if the piece becomes scratched, then the underlying wood is visible through the finish. Once the color and wood is selected, I will make a few sample boards using the color and top coat. At this time, we will decide the desired degree of reflectivity (gloss).
Now that you have a few details, I will make a sketch of your piece. It now becomes a bit more personal. The sketch can be refined but eventually it becomes a plan including dimensions and other necessary information for the construction, much like an architectural drawing.
At this point, I will begin the work of cutting and gluing. From time to time, I will send out pictures of the progress or ask you to stop by, if possible, to discuss any issues.
Once I start putting on the finish, the wood begins to take on its desired look. I will send out more pictures or schedule another visit if you want. I usually hand rub the last few coats to address all the imperfections and to adjust the surface to the desired reflectivity.
When the piece is completed, the top coat (such as an oil based varnish) may take a few weeks to cure. The curing process is critical. It is during this process that the varnish develops its durability so it will not scratch. Often, I will keep a piece an extra week or so to ensure that the finish is set and piece is ready to be used. I usually complete the finishing process with a paste wax.
John Reeves
CEO, Reeves Ridge Craftsmen
CEO, Reeves Ridge Craftsmen