Process
Commissioning an original piece of furniture is an exciting way to make sure you get exactly what you want. The finished product is the result of a collaborative effort between the maker and the buyer. There is an implicit understanding that you, the client, are contributing something vital to the process. Function, size, color, shape, texture and price are all open to compromise. In the end, you will own an expertly crafted, unique piece of furniture that will give all the more satisfaction for the time and thought you have invested in its creation.
The first thing to consider is your budget. Because I work almost exclusively in readily obtainable domestic hardwoods, the cost of materials for any particular piece is usually a relatively low percentage of the total cost. The cost of the piece is related more to the amount of design and complexity of craft involved in the work, rather than its size or materials.
After you've determined what you want to spend on the project, its time to think of a design - the most exciting part of making furniture (as well as the aspect most tailored to client/craftperson cooperation). I encourage you to take an active role in the creation process. Collect photographs of works you like, look to books, magazines, and other designs for inspiration - or better yet, sit down and sketch something out yourself. Obviously the goal in design is not to come up with something original for its own sake, but to find the perfect functional design for your needs. If the design is good, chances are it will also be unique.
If you live in the Portland area, you are welcome to visit the studio at any time. There are a number of very good wood dealers in the area, and I would be glad to have you accompany me if you think you might like to help choose the materials for your project. My hope is to have you become involved in the work to whatever extent you feel comfortable. When the work is done and the piece is in your home, you can admire it - not as one gazes at furniture in a shop window, but as something fundamentally imbued with your own sense of style.
