For our legacy to survive, our construction must be as enduring as our
timeless designs are. We use the same proven construction methods
that 18th century cabinetmakers used; mortise and tenon, dovetails,
and nails covered by wooden pegs. We have developed a special
mortise and tenon joint that allows the legs to be removed for shipping.
It is actually stronger than the 18th century joint.
Our construction methods are basically the same as those used in the
18th century. The old methods are better than more recent
techniques. This is not true, however, with furniture finishing. We use
water based aniline dye stains and catalyzed lacquers to create our
finishes. These environmentally friendly finishes represent the latest
technology. They resist water very well, and can produce colors that
before only time could create. Their deep rich colors accentuate the
wood's natural figuring and its variation from light to dark. Our
lacquers produce a dull effect similar in appearance to an antique
finish that was once glossy and has mellowed to a soft luster over time.
Prior to finishing we sand the wood, but only until it is smooth to the
touch. Sanding beyond that point burnishes the wood so that it loses
its natural appearance. That type of excessive sanding became
popular with furniture factories after World War II. It was their way of
showing the public that they had the latest machinery to produce the
"perfect product." We prefer to allow the wood to retain its character,
leaving minor variations such as the tiny sap pockets that are
characteristic of Cherry and occasional tool marks. These
"imperfections" give our furniture an obviously handmade appearance.


About our stain colors: We make our own stains right
here in our shop in Virginia. We have designed 6
exclusive colors for our furniture. These special dye
stains create colors that are much richer than those
offered by the mainstream furniture industry. Unlike
pigment stains that tend to mask the wood grain, our
stains allow the grain to come alive in a variety of subtlety
different shades. The down side to our stains is that they
tend to be a little inconsistent. Things like the humidity
and temperature on any given day can cause them to be
lighter or darker. We can provide you with actual wood
samples, however please be aware that the actual
furniture will likely be different than the sample.
Care of Furniture: Our furniture is finished with one of the
most durable finishes that today’s technology can
produce. However, it is important not to lose sight of the
fact that is made of solid wood, and when a hot dish or a
cup of hot liquid is placed directly on the surface,
moisture may be drawn from the wood and be trapped
under the topcoat, causing a ring or discoloration to form.
Also, the finish and the wood under it may be scratched
and dented. These things do not mean that the furniture
or the finish is defective; rather, it is indicative of the fact
that care must be exercised in the use of solid wood
furniture. See WARRANTY & CARE page for more
information.