My PROCESS
step 1: collaborate
It begins with an idea. Whether that’s in the form of an email, phone call, or something screenshotted off the internet. I can run with about any idea or image.
Questions I’ll likely ask
Dimensions - What’s the round number size of what you’re looking for?
Style - Is there a style or room theme you are after? Are we matching something existing?
Function - What do you want the piece to do? How will it be used?
Budget - What is your ballpark? No one likes to answer it but it help’s me with material selection and design details to better align with what you want.
step 2: Proposal
Once I have enough information I can get a rough design and proposal put together. This will cover the basics dimensional sketch, functionality, material selections, finishes, etc. I can draw up different options simultaneously so you can compare side by side. This step is more about the general vision and being on the same page than splitting hairs on dimensions and small details.
I’m expecting to hear you say “I like this but I want to change x” or “Would price change if we add or take away this”.
We’re doing a custom piece so I expect a lot of changes big and small and if I miss the mark don’t hesitate to say so. There is no commitment at this point.
step 3: Final Design
Once you’re happy with the basis of design I will produce a finely detailed sketch. This will show exact dimensions, construction details, scaled side elvevation views, etc. I will also provide finished wood samples to show color and sheen. This final design and the proposal together will form our agreement. This will be the point I take a material deposit and get started on your build.
step 4: build
This is where I start the weeks long process of building your project from scratch. Depending on the scale of your project this can range from one week to several weeks. The exact timeline will always be communicated in your proposal.
I’m happy to provide progress photos if you would like. There are many fine details that never get to be seen in the finished piece. So I am more than happy to get to show them off.
Changes Happen - Another idea may come to you a week or so after I start. That is not a problem. Bring the idea to me and I can see how we can incorporate it. Its as simple as contacting me, collaborate on what you want, and sign off on a change order.
I may have my own ideas as well. If I come across an idea mid-build that better aligns with what I think you would like I’ll reach out.
step 5: hand off
The entire reason why you’re here. We’ll figure out the time and place and I personally will deliver and/or install your piece. This will include a final inspection where both of us can look it over. If there is something wrong I’d rather make it right than have you live with it. This is also the point I will take final payment.
I’ll review the finish and go over best practices to keep it looking its best for decades to come.
Questions on the process
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A wide variety of services ranging from a cutting board to a full kitchen, or a pair of bookends to entire bedroom set. Please see my Services page or browse the Gallery for small sample of some past projects.
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I start with a material takeoff. Board feet, wood species price, amount of finish, consumables, etc. I then apply labor costs based off of similar pieces I have done in the past. Lastly I calculate taxes and a delivery fee if outside of the Omaha area.
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Every piece is unique so timeline varies from piece to piece. However below are a couple tentative timelines
1 - 2 Weeks - Small novelties, cutting boards, vases, child toys, small batches of millwork
3 - 4 Weeks - Tables - Dining, coffee, sofa, entry, end tables, etc.
4 - 6 Weeks - Chairs, dressers, nightstands, chests, bedframes
Cabinets - Productivity increases with scale. A bathroom vanity could be a couple weeks and an entire kitchen could be 12 weeks.
Again every project varies in complexity and scale, but these timelines are a good starting point.
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Yes! I will stand by behind everything I produce for the life of the product.
That is one of the unsung benefits of solid wood furniture and premium cabinets. Not only does it last the test of time but it can be easily maintained and repaired.
Warranty covers any work defects derived from normal day to day use. As for any damage…life happens, reach out to me and I can see what can be done to fix a damaged piece.
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That is a great question and one that is best answered with your hands and eyes.
No box store or online store can compare to traditionally made solid wood furniture or cabinetry. The materials, joinery, sturdiness, fit & function, aesthetic, and most importantly attention to detail are far beyond what is mass produced.
The closest comparison would be furniture from an Amish store. However, even that furniture is mass produced and is evident in its construction.