Buying custom furniture is different from picking something off a showroom floor. There is no browsing a catalog, adding to cart, and waiting for a box to arrive. When you commission a piece, you are part of the creative process from the first conversation to the final delivery. And that is exactly what makes it worth doing.
We have walked hundreds of customers through this process at our shop in Boulder, and the most common thing we hear early on is, "I have never done this before, so I am not sure how it works." That is completely normal. This post will walk you through every stage of the custom furniture process so you know what to expect, how long it takes, and what your role looks like along the way.
Step 1: The Initial Consultation
Everything starts with a conversation. You can reach out through our website, send us an email, or give us a call. We will set up a time to talk about what you are looking for: the type of piece, the room it is going in, how you use the space, and any design inspiration you have collected.
This is not a sales pitch. It is a chance for us to understand your needs and for you to ask questions. Some people come with a clear vision. Others know they want a dining table but are not sure about size, shape, or wood species. Both are perfectly fine.
If you are ready to start that conversation, you can submit a commission request through our website. We typically respond within one to two business days.
Step 2: Design Discussion and Planning
Once we understand the scope of your project, we move into the design phase. This is where we get into specifics: dimensions, wood species, joinery, edge profiles, finish options, and any custom details that make the piece yours.
For dining tables, this often means talking about seating capacity, leg style, and whether you want a live edge or a straight edge. For shelving, desks, or other pieces, we discuss mounting, hardware, and how the piece fits your workflow or storage needs.
We will share sketches, reference photos, and material samples as needed. You are not expected to know furniture terminology or construction methods. That is our job. Your job is to tell us how you live, and we will translate that into a design that works.
Step 3: Wood Selection
Choosing the right wood is one of the most important decisions in the process. Each species has its own character: white oak is durable and has a distinctive grain pattern, walnut runs darker with rich purple-brown tones, and maple offers a clean, light look.
We source our lumber from responsible suppliers and keep a rotating inventory of slabs and boards at our shop. If you are local to Boulder, you are welcome to come in and see the wood in person. There is something about running your hand across a slab that photos just cannot capture.
We finish every piece with a plant-based finish that protects the wood without covering up its natural beauty. You can learn more about our approach on our care and maintenance page.
Step 4: Building Your Piece
This is where the real work happens. Depending on the complexity of the project, the build phase typically takes four to eight weeks. Larger or more detailed commissions may take longer, and we will always give you a timeline estimate before we begin.
During the build, we handle milling, joinery, shaping, sanding, and finishing. Every step is done by hand in our Boulder shop. We do not outsource any part of the process.
We will send you progress photos along the way so you can see your piece coming together. If anything comes up during the build that requires a design decision, we will reach out before moving forward.
Step 5: Finishing
Once the piece is built, we apply our plant-based finish. This is a multi-step process that involves sanding to a smooth surface, applying the finish in thin coats, and allowing proper cure time between applications.
Our finish enhances the natural color and grain of the wood while providing real protection against moisture, heat, and daily wear. It is food-safe, non-toxic, and repairable, which means you can maintain it at home without needing to send it back to a shop.
Step 6: Delivery and Installation
When your piece is finished, we coordinate delivery directly. For customers in the Boulder and Front Range area, we handle delivery ourselves. We want to make sure the piece is placed exactly where it belongs, level, stable, and looking its best.
For customers outside Colorado, we work with trusted freight partners and package every piece with care. We have shipped tables, desks, and shelving across the country without issue.
How Long Does the Whole Process Take?
From consultation to delivery, most projects take six to twelve weeks. Simpler pieces like cutting boards or small accessories move faster. Large dining tables or multi-piece commissions take longer. We will always give you a realistic timeline and keep you updated if anything changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does custom furniture cost?
Every project is different, so pricing depends on the size, wood species, and complexity of the design. We provide a detailed quote after the design discussion so there are no surprises.
Can I make changes after the design is finalized?
Minor changes are usually possible early in the build. Once construction is well underway, significant changes become more difficult. We encourage you to take your time during the design phase to make sure everything feels right.
Do I need to know exactly what I want before reaching out?
Not at all. Many of our customers start with a general idea and we help shape it from there. That is part of what makes the custom process valuable.
What if I am not local to Boulder?
We work with customers across the country. Consultations and design discussions happen over phone, email, and video call. The process works the same regardless of location.
Ready to get started? Explore our portfolio to see past projects, or reach out to begin your commission. We would love to build something for you.