Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Amish Furniture - Unparalleled Artistry And Functionality

For old world design and craftsmanship, the quality of Amish furniture cannot be beat. They create beautiful pieces out of solid woods and natural materials. These high quality items are available only in specialty stores and shops around the United States, Canada, and on the Internet.

The Amish are a society that is unlike any other. While they do live within the boundaries of a certain country, the people do not associate themselves with the government or people from outside of their religious world, and that may be why they can create pieces that are unparalleled with any other examples of furniture in the world.

The craftsman do not believe in the use of modern technologies to assist them in their craft and it is all made completely by hand. The craftsman use simple tools, designs, and a simple finish that makes a shiny surface on the furniture.

Amish furniture is always made of solid wood materials. Composite material and particle board are never found in pieces made by these builders whose work ethic and artistry is equaled only by their sense of functionality. Some of the most common wood types that are used are: oak, cherry, maple, walnut, hickory, alder, fur, and hemlock. These are all woods that are easily manipulated and made into beautiful works of functional art.

It takes a great deal of time for an Amish craftsman to create a piece of furniture. If it is being sold to someone outside of the community, the craftsman will often even know the name of the person for whom they are building. That way they are able to customize that piece of furniture for a particular person.

Many people place custom orders for this reason. There are lots of choices when placing a custom order. Makers will often create a piece that is specific in size and design to customer specifications.

These artisans make furniture for every room of the home. In the dining room a craftsman may create a linen and china hutch, or elegant dining set that includes a buffet table. Bedroom pieces may include a rustic four-poster bed and matching end tables. Living room and office items are also popular.

This sturdy and long-lasting furniture is made by expert builders trained for years in the art. The result of all of their hard work is quality that cannot be compared to any other type of furniture.

It may be necessary to use caution when purchasing Amish furniture. There are many companies in the Internet and in local cities and towns that sell imitation pieces. So check for composite materials, and be sure to confirm that what you want to buy is solid wood. If it is solid wood it will almost surely be an authentic construction.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for Web sites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background also includes teaching, gardening, and fashion. For more of her useful articles on home decor and furniture, please visit Amish Furniture, supplier of Amish furniture, oak furniture, and more.

No comments: