With the prevalence of mass-produced furniture, the allure of high-quality, handcrafted furniture that’s built to last is undeniable. Mission furniture is especially appealing, with its timeless designs and attention to detail that make it sure to last for generations.
However, it can be difficult to determine the quality of a piece of furniture, especially if you’re not well-versed in the ins and outs of creating first-rate pieces. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through some key indicators that can help you identify high-quality furniture for your home.
#1. Materials Matter
Perhaps the most critical factor in determining the quality of a piece of furniture is the materials used to create it. Cheap furniture is often made of particle board or medium-density fiberboard, which are a type of engineered wood created from a combination of wood fiber or shavings, glue, resin, and wax that is pressed into sheets. The quality of these pieces can vary, but no matter what blend of materials is used, it will never be as strong or durable as solid wood.
Authentic mission furniture is made of solid oak, cherry, or walnut. To ensure you’re investing in pieces that will last, look for furniture that prominently advertises the use of hardwoods. Furthermore, it’s a good idea to inspect the piece to check for any veneers or laminates, as they can be used to mask inferior materials.
#2. Joinery Techniques
Another hallmark of high-quality furniture, whether mission-style or not, is the joinery techniques used in its construction. High-quality furniture utilizes time-tested methods to join two pieces together, including mortise and tenon, dovetail, and tongue-and-groove joints. These techniques create sturdy connections, ensuring long-lasting stability.
When examining a piece of wood furniture, pay close attention to the joints. They should be tight and flush, with no gaps or glue residue. Wobbly or loose joints are a sign that the piece wasn’t built to last.
#3. Handcrafted vs. Mass-Produced
Mission furniture is carefully crafted by hand, making it the epitome of quality and authenticity. Skilled artisans take pride in crafting heirloom pieces and ensure every aspect of their construction is done right. While handcrafted furniture often comes with a higher price tag than its mass-produced counterparts, the investment is worth the money because of its unparalleled quality and craftsmanship.
Mass-produced furniture, on the other hand, prioritizes cost-effectiveness over quality. Machines churn out identical pieces quickly, resulting in furniture that lacks attention to detail. To identify high-quality furniture pieces, look for hand-rubbed finishes, variations in wood grain, and subtle details.
#4. Finish and Stain
The finishes and stains applied to wood furniture pieces can significantly impact their overall quality and appearance. Mission furniture traditionally features hand-rubbed finishes that enhance the wood’s natural beauty while protecting it against wear and tear. To identify high-quality furniture, ensure that the stain is consistent and even across all surfaces. It should have no rough spots, streaks, or blotchy areas.
#5. Design and Attention to Detail
Mission furniture is known for its clean lines, simplicity, and timeless aesthetic. To identify true mission-style furniture, look for features such as precision-cut slats, well-defined edges, and subtle decorative elements that showcase close attention to detail. Pay special attention to hardware, handles, and drawer pulls. These components should be integrated seamlessly into the piece’s design and enhance its overall aesthetic appeal.
#6. Quality of Upholstery
If you’re considering furniture with upholstery, whether it’s an ottoman, sofa, or chair, consider the quality of the textiles. High-quality upholstery should be made from durable, easy-to-clean fabric or leather. The stitches should be neat and even, and the cushions should be both comfortable and supportive.
To identify high-quality furniture upholstery, carefully check the seams for loose threads and inspect corners for any signs of wear.
#7. Reputation and Warranty
Finally, look for a reputable manufacturer that can provide assurance of the quality of their products. Research the company’s reputation and read customer reviews, along with looking into their return policies and warranties. A manufacturer that stands behind their furniture by offering a warranty is likely confident in the quality and durability of their products.
High-Quality Furniture in Salt Lake City, UT
At Sugar House Furniture, we are confident in the quality of all of our products. We are dedicated to creating mission-style furniture that will stand the test of time. All our pieces are crafted from solid wood to ensure they will stay sturdy and stable for years to come.
To see what we have to offer, come visit us in Salt Lake City, Utah.
