Encore Custom Woodworks specializes in custom-built furniture based on your space, taste, and budget.
HOW IT WORKS |
When I first started building furniture, I was always on the hunt for the best DIY plans I could find online. There are several great resources that feature free plans and guides, ranging in skill level for the novice to the most experienced woodworker. What I found while working from these plans is how easy some of them have been to follow while others have forced me to get better at figuring things out on my own. Additionally, I often found myself wanting to make little changes here and there ranging from altering the dimensions of the plan to using different building techniques. Eventually, I realized how helpful this might be to others in a similar situation that really liked a piece of furniture, but it simply didn't fit their space, or perhaps it was finished in a dark stain, but your color palette is much lighter. This is the foundation of Encore Custom Woodworks - building furniture specifically for you.
If you haven't looked at our portfolio yet, please do so. If there is a project you see that you really like, Fantastic! We can recreate it for you, even if we need to make a few adjustments based on your required dimensions and preferred finished color. Let's say, though, that you have something in mind that is not currently in our portfolio - No problem! If you have a set of plans or if you have only decided on a general project, e.g., a coffee table, small tray, console table, etc., the next step is to determine exactly what you want it to look like. I will need to know the dimensions, or at the least, what size space you are dealing with. Next, we need to know the general style (modern, rustic, farmhouse, etc.) that fits you best. If you have pictures of similar projects, please send them to me so we can determine what will work for you specifically. Once we know that, we can talk about what kind of wood you would like to use. This is most certainly the aspect of furniture building that impacts the cost the most, but know that it is possible to create amazingly beautiful projects using construction-grade softwood lumber such as pine, spruce, or fir to keep the piece very affordable. In fact, most of the projects you'll see in our portfolio were built from standard pine and then stained or painted. If you desire something a bit more uniform with less visible knots, however, then we can upgrade to select pine. After that, there are several hardwood options from which to choose, but the price and dimensions will be very impacted. Of course, when using a more exotic species, there is less finishing involved as the natural beauty of the wood is best left untouched by stain or paint. Ultimately, it is up to you and what is available at the time from our local lumber yards. Lastly, shipping is available based on the size of the project and its impact on the final cost. It's my hope that this process will be as convenient as possible in order to deliver to you the best handcrafted furniture that I can. As you are considering all of the details for your customized project, please note all of the following elements: |
- Description of your project - If you are interested in something currently in our portfolio, simply give us the name of the project and describe any changes that you would like to make. If, however, you are interested in something not currently in our portfolio, please describe what you are looking for with a detailed description and include a picture if possible.
- Wood Type - Pine, select pine, and cedar are the most available softwood options. Pine is the most affordable while cedar is the most expensive. Oak, poplar, and maple are available hardwood options. Compared to softwoods, the cost difference for hardwoods can be significantly higher depending on the size of the project. All attempts possible will be made to keep the project affordable and reasonable for your budget.
- Stain or Paint - If stained, the following colors are readily available: Minwax Oil-Based in Golden Oak, Classic Gray, Jacobean, and Ebony. Additional colors as well as Zero VOC stains and paints are available upon request and cost preference.
- Dimensions - For all projects that differ in size from the ones currently in our portfolio, I will need to know the exact dimensions to fit your space. This includes the length, width, and height as well as any specific directions for the top of the project when applicable.
- The turnaround on all projects will depend on the size and details involved.
- Shipping is available based on the size of the project and its impact on the final cost.
When you're ready to begin, please fill out the form below!
StainStain is available in a wide variety of types and colors from several different brands. Unless you need a stain that is appropriate for an outdoor project that can withstand the elements, it mostly comes down to your preferred color. I really enjoy working with stain because you never really know what nuances in the wood will be brought out until it is stained. The natural grain in the wood is always unique and the stain reveals it wonderfully. I am always experimenting with and learning about new and different types of stains, so we can discuss additional options during the consulting process. |
Paint
While you don't see it as often in formal, finished furniture, paint is extremely versatile and can work well for a variety of projects. This is especially true with outdoor furniture and kids furniture where a more durable finish is desired. Paint also comes in practically every color possible, so it is a great option for those projects that might require something a little different. The project will probably require more maintenance over the years, but the color can always be changed as desired, which can keep it fresh for your changing tastes.
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Natural/Unfinished
Some projects are really best left untouched minus a protective coating that maintains the natural look of the wood. In this case, there is no additional staining or painting involved, but rather just a finishing sanding as well as some varnish or polyurethane as needed based on where the project will be placed. Also, you may know what project you want built, but can't decide on a finish - we can always sand and prep it for you, and you can finish it on your own once you have determined what you truly want.
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