Frequently Asked Questions

What's the first step?
Do you charge for design work?
How much of a deposit do you require?
How much will it cost?
When you quote a price is tax included?
What methods of payment do you accept?
How can I place an order for a current design piece or one of your works of sculpture?
How long have you been in business?
How did you get started?
How should I care for my new furniture?

What's the first step?

The first step is to contact me either by email or phone so that we can discuss your project. You do not have to have a complete design in mind for what you want. If you do have a picture that would be a good starting point, however I can start the design process with the barest of descriptions.

Depending on your project I will either create a series of thumbnail sketches for you to review and you will be able to let me know if I’m getting close or I will proceed with a complete design. The design process is critical to assuring you that you will be getting exactly what you want. I try very hard to create designs that are as clear as possible to understand, often creating cutaway views as well as detail views showing every aspect of the proposed design. You will have every opportunity to discuss every aspect of the job before we go on to working out the total price. My portfolio page has links to a few examples of some of my design work.

Once we have a design that matches what you are looking for I will then work out a price for the project. From there we sign a Commission Agreement that clearly states all the details of the project, the amount of all payments and when they are due, the expected delivery date and any other details particular to your project.

Do you charge for design work?

Yes. In most cases I will charge a design fee upfront. The amount for the fee depends on the circumstances of the project and I try and keep the fee to a minimum. I have a Design Fee Agreement in which we would agree that I will create a design based on a brief description of the project, when I will have the first design completed, a price that is an estimate for the projected cost of the overall project (including design fee) and the price for the design work. If you would like a copy of my Design Fee Agreement to review I will happy to send you one.

In some cases a design is so readily apparent I forgo the Design Fee Agreement and draw up the design right away. In that case I include the cost of creating the design in the project bid. In all cases I try to be as transparent about my charges as possible.

How much of a deposit do you require?

I usually require a deposit of 50% of the overall project price to start construction. The balance would be due upon notification that the project is complete in the shop.

How much will it cost?

Each project is unique. I try very hard to price my work fairly and competitively. The elements that go into determining the bid price are:

cost of materials and transportation of those materials to my shop
overhead expenses to run the shop such as rent, heat, electricity, insurance
my hourly charge
the cost of transportation to your home or office

When you quote a price is tax included?

Yes, and it is clearly shown on the Commission Agreement.

What methods of payment do you accept?

Check, cash or money orders. Sorry, no credit cards at this time.

How can I place an order for a current design piece or one of your works of sculpture?

Please contact me directly. I will be happy to discuss terms that will suit you. In most cases all you have to do is send me a check and I will arrange for delivery of the piece.

How long have you been in business?

I have been making and selling furniture for over 25 years, prior to that I was part owner in a remodeling company for several years.

How did you get started?

It's a long story. If you are really want interested please see the About page of my blog for more.

How should I care for my new furniture?

For everyday care, I recommend light dusting with a damp, soft cloth. If you wish to polish your pieces, I recommend a non-wax polish.