Custom woodworking and joinery, made to your spec

Frequently asked questions

How much does custom furniture cost?

It depends on size, timber, joinery, finish and how much hand work is involved. Hardwoods like walnut cost more than pine or plywood, and hand-cut joints take longer than machine-made ones. Public US cost guides put typical custom pieces in the low thousands of dollars, but makers on The Spool List set their own prices, so post your job and compare quotes.

What is the difference between joinery and carpentry?

The terms overlap and vary by country. Carpentry usually means structural and on-site work such as framing, roofs and floors. Joinery usually means making items in a workshop by joining pieces of wood together, such as furniture, doors, windows and cabinets. Most jobs on The Spool List are workshop-made pieces that are finished and then delivered.

Which wood is best for a dining table?

Dense hardwoods such as oak, walnut, ash and maple are common choices for tables because they resist dents and wear. Softwoods like pine cost less but mark more easily. The right choice depends on your budget, the look you want and how the table will be used, so ask makers what they would recommend for your brief.

Can I get a piece of furniture repaired or restored?

Yes. You can post repair jobs such as loose joints, broken legs, missing parts or worn finishes. Include photos of the damage, measurements and any history you know. For valuable antiques, say so in the brief, because restoration methods that keep original material and finish differ from a simple repair.

Is solid wood better than plywood or MDF?

Not always. Solid wood can be repaired and refinished and suits tables, chairs and exposed edges. Good plywood is stable and strong for carcasses, shelves and cabinets. MDF is smooth and suits painted pieces but is heavy and does not like water. Many well-made pieces mix materials, so ask the maker what they plan to use and why.

Can I buy finished wooden pieces instead of commissioning one?

Yes. Makers can list ready-made items in the Forge, The Spool List's shop for finished pieces. You can browse and buy there, or post a job if you need something made to your own size, timber or design. Ready-made pieces suit gifts and standard sizes, while a job post suits anything that has to fit a particular space.