Furniture Construction and Selection
Qualities of Hardwoods
Greater dimensional stabilityLess pitchMore durabilityHarderHolds nails and screws betterLess likely to dent
Hardwoods commonly used
MapleCherryPecanOakWalnut
Qualities of SoftwoodsDevelops checks and cracksNot as strong as hardwoodLess expensive than hardwood
Softwoods commonly used
CedarPineRedwoodCypress
Veneers
DefinitionThin slices of wood
Advantages of using veneersSolid wood is too expensiveSolid wood is too heavyGreater strengthLess cost
Furniture Joints
Important because they affect the life of the furniture, it’s durability, and it’s strength.
Types of Joints
Biscuit Mortise and tenon Rabbet Butt
Mitered Dado Lap Dovetail
Parts of Upholstered Furniture
FrameShould be kiln dried hardwoodJoints should be strengthened
Cushioning materialsSprings in seat basesThick cushioning applied over springs and frame.Foam, fiberfill, and down are used.
Support Springs in MattressesBox springs
Coils attached to a base covered with paddingCoil springs:
Same as box, but not covered or paddedFlat springs:
Frame with flat springsNumber of coils?
Good quality has 300 or more
Metals in Furniture Construction
AluminumIronSteelUsed for:
Lawn chairsOutdoor furnitureModern furniture
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Metal Furnishings
Advantages:Light or heavyInexpensiveStrong
Disadvantages:BendsDentsBrittleRusts and tarnishes
Plastic furniture
Advantages:Imitates other materialsLight weightDurableInexpensiveEasy to clean
Buying Case Furniture
Check for:Surface finish, back and inside finishSolid constructionSturdy baseWorking partsDrawers open smoothly
Buying Upholstered Furniture
Check for:ZippersUnderliningSpring qualityComfort
Shopping for Furniture
Information and materials you should take with you when you shop for furniture:
Measurements: what size are door openingsColors: Carpet, wallpaper, paint, fabric to match