Introduction to furniture design
Furniture design is a rewarding profession and a great hobby. Talented craftsmen and artisans throughout history have been held in high regard for good reason. Almost everybody uses furniture of some description and many people admire and covet well made items.
In this guide, we’ll go from the start of history to the modern technological age, looking at techniques, equipment and materials so you have everything you need whatever level of interest in the subject you have.

Inspiration from history
The ebbs and flows of human history are reflected in trends of many things; art, literature and architecture are obvious examples. Furniture and interior design are, in lots of ways, just as indicative of the culture of the time. Technology, fashions and available materials all influenced the way we decorated our home and what we put in it.
Neolithic era
Up until about 12,000 years ago, humans led a hunter-gatherer lifestyle. Most communities were nomadic while others stayed near a more abundant food source. It’s likely that some form of shelter, seating and bedding were made, owned and even transported in some cases. However, it wasn’t until the advent of agriculture and the domestication of animals that we had time to worry about style.

Archaeological evidence exists of Stone Age dwellings having more than just basic functional furniture. Rudimentary cupboards have been found in stone-built houses on Scottish islands dating back over 10,000 years. Evidence of an early interest in aesthetics can be found in monuments like stone circles, some of which date back 11,000 years like Göbekli Tepe in Turkey so we had the drive, we just needed the technology to transfer grand ideas into day-to-day life.
Ancient civilisations
The very first fully fledged civilisation is thought to have arisen in what is now modern day Iraq around 7,000 years ago. Other ancient civilisations include Egypt, Greece, Rome and China and lasted up until around 2,000 years ago so it covers most of recorded human history. The rate of technological advancement was very slow by today’s standards and materials were locally sourced and mainly wood so styles were influenced by the properties of local tree species.

The Nile Delta was rich in species like cedar and acacia with their natural resistance to pests and decay, which helped to ensure the longevity of Egyptian furniture. Greece and Rome had an abundance of olive and oak; the curved legs and intricate carvings often seen in Greek furniture were made possible by the flexibility and workability of those woods. In China, rosewood, known for its rich reddish-brown color, was often used for luxury furniture, while pine, with its lighter color and softer grain, was more commonly used for everyday items as it is in other parts of the world.

Furniture design in the Middle Ages
Medieval Europe saw a period of great change, the disintegration of the Roman Empire and mass migration accompanied a population decline in the early Middle Ages also known as the Dark Ages. Conversely the later medieval periods were ones of comparative opulence that came with warmer weather and relatively better economic conditions for the lower classes. This showed in furniture design, early pieces were often austere and functional whereas in later times, a nod towards appealing to the eye was increasingly seen even amongst poorer people.
The Dark Ages were marked by a focus on practicality and survival. Furniture was often simple and functional, made primarily of wood and featured basic designs. Chairs were rare, and most people sat on benches or stools. Bed frames were often low to the ground and tables were small and portable.

The Gothic period, spanning the later middle ages, saw a significant shift in furniture design. Gothic furniture was characterised by its intricate carvings, pointed arches, and elegant ornamentation. Chairs became more elaborate, with tall, ornate backs and carved details. Chests were often used for storage and also served as decorative elements.
Renaissance and Reformation
Relatively similar time periods in history but with contrasting effects. The Renaissance was a cultural and intellectual movement that began in the 14th century in Italy. It marked a revival of interest in classical Greek and Roman art, literature, and philosophy. This revival influenced all aspects of life, including furniture design. The Protestant Reformation, which began in the 16th century, challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and led to significant social and cultural changes.
Renaissance furniture was characterized by its elegant lines, symmetry, and use of classical motifs. Popular materials included wood, marble, and bronze. Contrastingly, the Reformation saw a simplification of furniture design, reflecting the Protestant emphasis on austerity and plainness. Furniture became less ornate and more functional, focusing on comfort and utility.
The Age of Exploration started in this period and this led to new trade areas with new materials such as mahogany from the Americas. Also the rise of the middle classes produced demand for affordable but well designed furniture often referred to as “country house” or “vernacular” which was characterized by its simple designs and use of local materials.
Early Modern: Elizabethan/Jacobean/Colonial furniture
The centuries between the reign of Elizabeth I and the colonisation of America, from the 16th to the 18th centuries, are known as the Early Modern era. It was another period of contrast for the world of furniture design from the luxurious influence of wealthy Elizabethan England to the practicalities of expanding into the new world.

Elizabethan furniture was a reflection of the grandeur of the court of Elizabeth I. The Jacobean era was relatively short but had a distinctive style with bold geometric with ornate inlays and carvings, rich fabrics and the use of turned legs and spin shapes, often in darker wood. Colonial furniture was governed by practicality and durability and often served multiple purposes such as seating doubling as chest storage.
French design: Sun King to the Revolution
French furniture has been a source of inspiration throughout history but it was particularly influential from the mid 17th to the early 19th century. A time frame that seems geological from the perspective of today’s rapid changes in design and technology but saw huge political and social change in France and subsequently surrounding countries and beyond.
Louis XIV
The Sun King presided over one of France’s most dominant periods in history and was its longest serving monarch. The country’s prosperity was reflected in the funds available to the king to showcase his wealth with expensive furniture, artwork and other luxuries. This was copied by the fashions of the time and the extravagance gave rise to furniture that became increasingly ornate, featuring gilded details, elaborate carvings, and luxurious upholstery.

Louis XV
The great grandson of Louis XIV was also a popular king and also ruled for many years, nicknamed the Beloved King and was only surpassed in length of reign by his predecessor. The furniture fashions of the day saw a shift towards a more delicate and feminine aesthetic. Asymmetrical curves and shell-like motifs became prominent and furniture became lighter and more graceful, often featuring curved legs and upholstered seats.
Louis XVI
Louis XVI was less popular than his namesake predecessors and was the last king before the French Revolution. He had a relatively short reign before his execution in 1793. However, he did influence French culture, precipitating a neoclassical revival, drawing inspiration from ancient Greece and Rome. Furniture design centered on restraint and elegance, featuring straight lines, tapered legs, and delicate ornamentation.
Revolution
The French Revolution and the subsequent Napoleonic era brought about a shift towards simpler, more functional furniture designs as a reaction to the perceived over-extravagance of the preceding eras. The revolutionaries sought to dismantle the hierarchical society and embrace a more egalitarian ideal and furniture design, which became simpler, more functional, and less ornate.
Industrial Revolution
The rapid expansion of mechanisation brought a massive upheaval to all types of manufacturing. Handmade goods gave way to mass production and making furniture became more efficient, affordable and accessible to the wider population. Firms employed machinery to streamline processes, leading to a surge in output and a decline in prices. This paved the way for an increase in demand from the middle classes for new, innovative designs.
Improved processes allowed for the use of new materials like wrought iron, cast iron and steel which opened up possibilities of bolder geometric designs than traditional woodworking techniques could achieve.

This period was pivotal in the history of furniture design, it brought about significant changes in terms of materials, production methods and aesthetic styles. While the mass production of furniture led to a decline in craftsmanship, it also made quality furniture more accessible to a wider audience. The enduring influence of the Industrial Revolution can still be seen in many contemporary furniture designs, reflecting the ongoing tension between tradition and innovation.
Georgian and Victorian
A period covering the reigns of the first four Georges that sat on the British throne along with Victoria and, for a short time in between, William IV. The furniture of both eras relied heavily on wood as the primary material, popular ones included mahogany, walnut, oak and satinwood. Carving, gilding, and inlays were common decorative techniques. Upholstery fabrics like silk, velvet, and damask were used to add texture and color to furniture pieces.

Key design elements:
- Chippendale, after the renowned English furniture maker Thomas Chippendale, these chairs are characterized by their distinctive designs
- Gilt bronze mounts were often used to decorate furniture, adding a touch of luxury and opulence
- Curved legs, known as serpentine legs, were a common feature in Georgian and Victorian furniture
- Regency style emphasized elegance and simplicity, with a focus on clean lines and understated details
Furniture from this era is very much a source of inspiration to contemporary designers. Modern interpretations include design elements that can be found throughout this period.
Pre war: Art Nouveau/Bauhaus/Art Deco
The early 20th century witnessed a revolution in furniture design, there was a marked departure from the ornate and traditional styles of the Victorian and previous eras. Art Nouveau, Bauhaus, and Art Deco emerged as dominant movements, each offering a unique aesthetic and approach to furniture design.
Art Nouveau incorporated patterns inspired by plants and nature with flowing curves, organic forms and intricate details. Items of furniture often incorporated floral motifs, flowing lines, and decorative elements inspired by nature. Materials such as stained glass, wrought iron, and exotic woods were commonly used.

Although the foundation of Art Nouveau started in Britain from floral designs by William Morris, the movement gained momentum in France and Belgium and from there became a hugely influential design style throughout the world. Towards the end of the 19th century, it had gone from a simple pattern to dominating art, design and architecture.
Bauhaus was a German design school that appeared just after WWI and inspired the eponymous design movement. It championed a functional and minimalist approach, furniture of this movement, emphasized clean lines, geometric shapes and a focus on utility. Bauhaus furniture often featured simple, unadorned forms and the use of industrial materials like chrome and steel.
Art Deco has its roots in Paris in the 1910s and became popular across Europe and the USA, its influence can be still seen in large buildings such as the Chrysler and Empire State in New York. Art Deco furniture often featured geometric patterns, bold colors, and luxurious materials like marble, chrome, and exotic woods.
Post war: Pop/Brutalism/Minimalism
Out of the optimism that came with the end of WWII came shifts in society and consequently, art and design. Periods of shortage and austerity gradually gave way to influences of plenty and abundance prompting more joyful design movements like pop.
Pioneered by the likes of Liechtenstein and Warhol, with bold playful colours and an irreverent approach, it provided an antidote to the pessimism of the past and embraced new materials, especially plastics. Iconic pieces include the tulip table and the lounge chair.

Brutalism was not quite as playful and was more concerned with architecture but it had influences on the furniture world. Advances in construction techniques allowed the use of huge geometric shapes and exposed support features to express a sense of honesty.
Minimalism, a design philosophy that emerged in the mid-20th century, emphasizes simplicity, clean lines, and a focus on essential elements. This minimalist aesthetic was reflected in furniture design, with a focus on form, function, and the use of natural materials. Iconic examples include the Barcelona Daybed.

Contemporary themes from around the world
As the World shrinks, the influence from cross-culture interaction has, and will continue to grow. European dominance and eras named after British monarchs are things of the past. Popular culture is being led increasingly by Asia which is reinforced by the manufacturing powerhouses in the region.
Contemporary furniture design is influenced by global trends and cultural diversity. For example, Japanese design often incorporates natural materials, minimalism, and a focus on simplicity. Moroccan design features intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and handcrafted techniques.
Industrial chic furniture blends elements like metal, exposed brick, and reclaimed wood with modern design. This style is characterized by its rugged aesthetic, often featuring exposed pipes, gears, and other industrial artifacts.

As our world continues to evolve, so too will the landscape of furniture design. We can expect to see further innovation in materials, technology, and design aesthetics. Sustainable practices will continue to be a driving force, and the focus on customization and personalization will likely intensify.
Types of furniture
It is likely that you have decided before reading this article where your item of furniture will be placed and what its function will be but here is a rundown of the common types of furniture and what rooms they are usually found in.
Living/sitting room or lounge

- Comfortable sofas and chairs are often the centerpiece of this room, the design and manufacture of these items are rarely tackled as DIY projects; choose your favourite from a showroom and build the style of the room around them
- Coffee/side tables are low and are used as the name suggests
- TV stands usually have shelves or spaces to house games consoles, satellite boxes or video/DVD players
- Bookshelves are a common DIY project and are used to store the obvious books but also games and DVDs for use with what is stored on the TV stand although these things are often stored digitally these days
Dining room furniture
- The dining table is the main piece of furniture in this room and will likely be chosen based on the size of the room and the needs of the family that will sit around it
- The chairs need to provide a comfy place to sit around the table and match its overall look and style
- Cabinets and sideboards are also found here to store and display dinner services, cutlery, drinks and other dining equipment
Kitchen furniture

- A kitchen table can be a great place for casual dining or meal preparation if space allows
- Kitchen cupboards/cabinets are the mainstay of kitchen storage and are a great DIY project even if you only build the carcasses; please check local regulations to determine what is permissible in your area
- Work surfaces are a must and often line the top edges of the cupboards, they can be made from many materials like granite, wood or steel
Bedroom
- Obviously a bed would take centerstage, a wooden framed bed would be a good project for the amateur carpenter to sink their teeth into
- Bedside cabinets and nightstands for lamps, alarm clocks, and other essentials
- A wardrobe or closet offers additional storage for clothing and linens
Home office
- A desk provides a workspace for your computer, papers and supplies
- A comfortable and ergonomic office chair is essential for long hours of work
- A bookshelf or filing cabinet can be storage for books, files, and other office supplies
Many of the above examples are cabinets and others are cabinets in all but name. PolyBoard is our flagship product and ideal for cabinetry and cabinet design.



Choosing a design style and basic interior design
Furniture was once purely functional but as our tastes have developed and technology has allowed, it has become an expression of personal style and a key element in creating a cohesive and inviting home. When deciding on which direction to take your space, several factors come into play including location, existing furniture and the overall style of your home.
Location, location, location
Where your items of furniture are placed has a major impact on their effectiveness in terms of both functionality and look. Feng Shui is a study in the flow and arrangement of a room, we don’t have to go that far but it’s always worth considering the following:
- Large furniture pieces can overwhelm a small space, while smaller items might get lost in a vast room; scale your furniture choices to the size of the room
- Ensure furniture placement doesn’t hinder movement throughout the room, consider creating a clear path for people to walk around comfortably and the flow of the room will be more pleasing to the eye
- Position furniture to maximize natural light, place a reading chair near a window to enjoy sunlight for example
Coordination with existing furniture
Aim for a cohesive look by choosing furniture that complements the existing style of your home. If you have a traditional home, consider classic furniture styles like Victorian or Georgian, for a modern home, contemporary or minimalist pieces would be more suitable.
Consider the overall color palette of the room by choosing furniture that complements or contrasts with the existing colors. For example, a bold-colored sofa could be the focal point of a neutral room, while a more subdued piece might blend in seamlessly. Also match or complement the materials and finishes of your existing furniture. For instance, a wooden coffee table would pair well with a wooden dining set.
Period buildings
It’s good practice to adapt your design plans to suit the period the building was built. Contemporary furniture can work with an older decor but contrasts may not age well. For example, Victorian homes don’t need to be exclusively dark wood and ornate touches but be mindful to ensure any cross-genre mixes don’t end up looking twee.
It’s likely that if you live in a Georgian home, you chose to do so, it therefore stands to reason that your taste is aligned with that style. Don’t try to be too clever, stick to the basics, some modern features need to be added, after all we don’t live in the early 19th century but do it tastefully.
Practical considerations
Bear in mind the purpose of the item of furniture. So a dining table for example should be large enough to accommodate your family and guests, never compromise function for form. Invest in quality materials for your furniture so it will last. Consider factors like materials, construction and warranties if you purchased an item rather than made it yourself.
If you have limited space, look for designs with built-in storage options, such as ottomans with storage compartments or coffee tables with drawers. Remember that you have to live with your choices day-to-day.

Personal taste
Ultimately, the most important factor in choosing furniture is your personal taste. Select pieces that resonate with you and make you feel comfortable in your home, don’t be afraid to experiment and create a space that reflects your unique personality.
By carefully considering these factors, you can create a harmonious and inviting home that is both stylish and functional. Remember, furniture is more than just objects; it’s an expression of your individuality and a reflection of your lifestyle.
Getting inspiration from existing furniture design ideas
Inspiration is the spark that turns into great furniture but unless we are honoured to have the next Breuer, Knoll, Le Corbusier or Chippendale visiting us, you are likely to search for that spark from what others have done before. Since furniture designing has been going on for over ten millennia, there are quite a lot to choose from.
Blogs and online magazines
Last we looked, there was no shortage of these, here are a few of our favourites:
- DesignWeek, a leading voice from the world of UK design, spanning many disciplines including furniture
- Creative Boom, another UK based look into design as a whole that delivers creative industry news, inspiration, insight and advice
- Ideal Home Magazine has been around for over a century and has been the yardstick that others follow
- And here are a few more compilations of other people’s favourites, compiled by Love Happens and Unique Tiles
Social media platforms
Social media has long been a great place to share ideas and since phones with inbuilt cameras have become the norm, you can find collections of images of virtually anything.
- Pinterest, collections of images is this site’s raison d’être so just browse through it for the type of furniture that you are (p)interested in and you’ll be inundated with options
- Instagram is another image oriented platform that probably needs no introduction
- Houzz is an interior design based social media platform that is designed to be used by professionals

Furniture showrooms
Furniture manufacturers and retailers normally have both an online and an offline presence and you can use either or both to give you ideas. Take note of the materials, finishes and overall design of the pieces.
The past
Designs from any time in history were always influenced by what had gone before so be inspired by the masters of the past. Museums and history books (again both on and off line) will show you all the styles mentioned in our history section at the start of this article and more.
Consider the opulence of the Georgian period, the practicality of the Colonial times or the extremes of the modern era. Every period has its distinctive style just waiting to be incorporated into your design.
How to use this inspiration
- Pay attention to the details such as the materials, construction techniques and overall aesthetic
- Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles to create a unique look, combining modern lines with vintage elements can create a dynamic and eclectic aesthetic
- Use sketches to visualize your ideas and experiment with different forms and proportions
- Share your ideas with friends, family and fellow designers to get feedback and refine your concepts
- Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, failure can often lead to new and innovative ideas
By exploring these sources of inspiration and applying the principles of design, you can create furniture that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Remember, the key to great design is a blend of creativity, practicality, and a touch of personal flair.
What makes a good design
Creating exceptional furniture requires mastering five key elements:
- Aesthetic appeal
- Functionality
- Quality craftsmanship
- Sustainability
- Market trends
Understanding how these elements interact is crucial for designing furniture that is both timeless and practical.

A visually striking piece of furniture can capture attention and make a lasting impression. Effective design incorporates balance and symmetry to enhance both appearance and usability. Small details, such as smooth finishes and intricate edges, add sophistication and elevate the overall look. Attention to these details can transform a piece from ordinary to extraordinary.
Functionality is the cornerstone of good design. Furniture must fulfill its intended purpose, whether it’s providing storage, offering comfort, or serving as a display piece. A well-designed item ensures ease of use and may include multifunctional features to maximize practicality, especially in smaller spaces. In furniture design, functionality is paramount; a piece should not only be aesthetically pleasing but also intuitive and enjoyable to use.
Quality craftsmanship begins with a thoughtful design and extends through every stage of production. It’s about more than just precision; it requires an understanding of materials and construction techniques that complement the design and ensure durability. A well-crafted piece of furniture is built to withstand regular use over time. Additionally, craftsmanship involves adaptability – designers and artisans must be able to adjust their approach as needed throughout the manufacturing process to maintain the integrity of the design.

Sustainability is an increasingly important consideration in modern furniture design. From sourcing eco-friendly materials to minimising environmental impact during production and ensuring responsible disposal, sustainable design is about creating pieces that endure both in quality and to minimise environmental impact. Durable furniture that stands the test of time reduces the need for frequent replacements, contributing to a more sustainable future.
Staying attuned to market trends is vital for any furniture designer. Understanding current consumer preferences – whether in style, colour choices, or technology integration – ensures that designs resonate with the target audience. However, it’s essential to balance trendiness with longevity. Furniture should be designed with timelessness in mind, allowing it to remain relevant beyond fleeting trends. One effective way to achieve this is by creating customizable pieces that cater to a wide range of tastes, ensuring lasting appeal.
Material choices
The overall form and function of a furniture design heavily depends on careful material selection. Different materials, such as timber, glass, plastics, metals and upholstery, contribute not only to the visual style but also to the durability and structural stability of the piece. Choosing the right material is essential for enhancing strength and longevity.
Understanding the intended environment is crucial when selecting materials. For example, MDF would be unsuitable for an outdoor kitchen as exposure to weather could cause significant damage. In such cases, materials like compact laminate offer greater resilience and longevity. Recognizing the limitations of each material is key to designing furniture that will stand the test of time. Manufacturers often provide technical information on their websites to assist with this process.

Additionally, material selection must consider the available manufacturing resources. Metals, timbers, and plastics require different manipulation techniques, and a designer must choose materials that can be successfully manufactured. Outsourcing is a practical solution in today’s world, enabling access to specialized material manipulation that may not be possible otherwise.
Recycled materials like plastics or reclaimed timber, contribute to eco-conscious designs by reducing environmental impact. These materials can also offer cost savings and greater availability compared to traditional options, such as hardwoods, which take years to grow and are often more difficult to source. Incorporating recycled materials into furniture design not only supports sustainability but also provides a practical and often more affordable alternative to conventional resources.

Finishing materials play a critical role in furniture design, as they enhance and protect the primary materials used. For timber, finishes such as varnishing, painting, edge taping, and veneering contribute to the longevity, durability, and aesthetic appeal of the piece. Metal finishes, including powder coating and anodizing, are essential for preventing wear and maintaining a high-quality appearance.
When working with glass, selecting the appropriate type, such as toughened or laminated glass, and finish, whether clear or frosted, is crucial for ensuring the material’s suitability and performance within the design.
Plastics, available in various finishes and colours, offer a cost-effective alternative and include materials like polycarbonate, acrylic, and polypropylene. However, it is important to note that many plastics may not match the durability of more traditional materials. Careful selection of finishes and materials ensures that the final product not only meets functional requirements but also achieves desired aesthetic goals.

Construction methodology
Construction methodology is crucial in furniture design as it directly impacts functionality, durability, cost, and overall design. By selecting appropriate construction techniques, designers can ensure the longevity of furniture, even under challenging conditions and regular use.
Construction methods vary depending on the material and context, ranging from traditional joinery to modern techniques like welding and lamination. In woodworking, traditional joints such as mortise and tenon, mitre, and dovetail joints provide strength without the need for fasteners, relying instead on the inherent strength of the joint, often reinforced with adhesives. Modern fasteners, on the other hand, offer concealed, strong, and efficient solutions that can also allow for the customisation of the furniture piece.
Contemporary, efficient construction techniques contribute to reduced waste and time savings, while still ensuring high-quality craftsmanship. A designer’s understanding of construction methodology allows them to push creative boundaries while maintaining practicality and realism. Mastery of materials and assembly techniques unlocks possibilities for innovative designs that are not only visually striking but also functional, ultimately leading to a more marketable and successful product.

The above example shows a dovetail joint, creating strength by interlocking two perpendicular components. This joint is commonly seen on drawers.

The Lamello Cabineo is similar to a ‘CAM’ fitting that joins panels perpendicularly. The fitting is known for its efficiency and portability.

The above image showcases a joiner inserting dowels into particle board which will be eventually glued and used to strengthen a joint.
Visualisation
Modern design software empowers designers to visualise furniture through advanced 3D models and realistic renders. These tools enable designers to explore and refine complex designs and concepts in a virtual space, effectively identifying and resolving potential issues early in the design process. By facilitating the visualisation of color and material selections, such software ensures that the final product aligns precisely with both the designer’s and the client’s vision and expectations.

Applications such as Blender and SketchUp offer sophisticated rendering capabilities, producing highly realistic visualisations that incorporate detailed room environments, lighting effects, and high-resolution textures. Furthermore, some software solutions provide virtual reality (VR) integration, allowing designers and clients to interact with and confirm designs within immersive virtual settings.
Moreover, design software enhances the integration with manufacturing processes.Tools like PolyBoard contribute to production efficiency by generating comprehensive cutting lists, job plans, drilling information, and machining files for CNCs. This seamless integration optimises accuracy and streamlines the manufacturing workflow, thereby improving overall production outcomes.


Build a mockup or prototype
To test and see your designs in the flesh before committing yourself, it might be worth considering constructing a reduced size model or prototype. This pre-production phase allows:
- Design refinement by identifying and addressing potential design flaws early on
- Material testing by experimenting with different materials
- Construction technique evaluation by practicing assembly methods to streamline the production process
Material selection
You may go straight for the same material that the final piece will be made of or you may decide on a cheaper or easier material to work for your scale model, much will depend on the individual project.
A great way to prototype, while recycling material, is to use packing material that protects material in transport. Commonly sheet material is covered top and bottom by a sheet of MDF or particle board, and timber pallets and shipping crates are often used for transporting fittings and hardware. These are great resources for prototyping that reduce costs and recycle readily available material.

If these products aren’t available, it would be better to use light, cheap and easy materials like balsa, cardboard, plastic or even paper for the first try and get more ambitious on the second attempt depending on the success of the first.
Prototype production
Producing prototypes is good practice to test finishes and joints. Creating replica joints using fixings can provide confidence in joint strength and practicality. Similarly, finishes can be tested to confirm adhesion with the required material and improved stability.
Prototyping for varnishing/painting is important if mixing is required, assuring that the finish is mixed to the correct consistency and proportions. Additionally, this will confirm that equipment is set up in a way that applies a consistent finish.
DIY versus professional furniture production
Now you’ve gone through the whole design process and you want to finally make your finished piece of furniture, but there are still choices to make. Do you make it yourself or get a professional to do it?
DIY versus professional services is often a quandry when designing your own furniture. Whether you’re dreaming of a custom dining table or a unique bookshelf, the decision to build it yourself or commission a professional can be a tough one.

The path you take will almost certainly be governed by the difficulty of the project and your personal circumstances but some pros and cons to consider are:
DIY
- Cheaper so long as you don’t make costly mistakes
- Adaptable, you can change your mind mid production
- Full control, you get to decide when the job is complete
- Skill development, once you use these skills once you’ll only get better
- Job satisfaction that you’ll enjoy every time you see the piece
Professional
- Speed, a pro will always win hands down at this except when they have a backlog (a fair indication that their services are popular)
- Quality of workmanship is likely to be higher due to their experience and access to precision tooling
- Peace of mind, less worries about mistakes or delays
The stages of furniture production
Whether you are making the furniture or you’ve asked a workshop to do it for you, in basic terms production consists of 3 elements:
- The material or materials from which the piece will be constructed
- Tools to shape each constituent part
- A method of assembling and fixing the parts
Materials
We have addressed the choice of materials in previous sections so all you need now is to decide how much you need. A cut list is the best method to determine this, it also ensures waste is kept to a minimum.
Tools
There are a multitude of tools available, some powered and some not. Master craftsmen in the past made beautiful furniture with the most rudimentary tools when compared to what is available today. You only really need to have the means to cut, shape and finish each part; so saw, chisel and sand paper would get you over the line. However, the average shed or garage has much more sophisticated equipment than that, so lathes, bandsaws, orbital sanders etc will make light work of it all.

For professionals, larger scale equipment such as panels saws and CNC machinery may be available. Using the correct design software can create seamless integration with machinery, drastically improving efficiency and minimising wastage in furniture production.
Be sure to observe all safety precautions to avoid accidents and injuries.
Assembly
All joinery incorporates joints. Mortice and tenon or dovetail joints were extensively used in the past for increased strength and durability. In modern day joinery as technology has improved it is common to see modern mechanical fixings that provide the same joint strength with more flexibility, assembly efficiency and less material wastage. Whatever method you choose, make sure the joint is well made and fits properly, this will increase the likelihood of a lasting finished product.
Finishing
Depending on the material you used to make your piece of furniture, you might want to apply a finish. If you used natural timber, a natural finish would look great but in practical terms it would be better to apply some sort of protection. Varnish, Danish oil or simple paint are all options. Apply several light coats for best results.

3D printing
3D printing started as a bit of a novelty but the potential practical applications were clear at the time and have continued to evolve. Pretty much anything can be 3D printed these days like houses, cars and even food so the odd piece of furniture is a walk in the park. The only problem is that most people don’t own a suitable 3D printer.
Fortunately, where there is demand, supply soon follows and there are a plethora of companies with the specialist equipment that, for a fee, will print your designs in the manner and material of your choosing.
Advantages of 3D furniture printing
3D printing allows for unparalleled customization, designers can create unique, bespoke pieces tailored to individual preferences and specific spaces. Intricate designs that were once challenging or impossible to produce using traditional methods can now be easily realized with 3D printing.

Furniture components, hardware and fixings can all be made and printed to custom specifications. This can be incorporated into drawings and designed with the relevant software. 3D printing allows you to customize items specifically for your context and requirements, even if your required product is not available on the market.
3D printing can reduce production time and waste, as materials are used only where necessary. By minimizing material waste and enabling the use of recycled materials, 3D printing can also contribute to more sustainable furniture production.
Sustainable furniture making
It has been generally accepted for a number of years that human activity is having a negative effect on the environment. The increase in greenhouse gasses like carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels along with deforestation is heating the planet. If left unchecked, this will lead to extreme weather conditions, sea level rises or worse so we all need to do our bit.
Use FSC certified timber
If your item of furniture is going to be made of wood, ensure you get it from an FSC certified source. This certification checks that the sources are managed according to sustainable forestry practices and promotes the long-term health of our forests.

Use recycled materials
Obviously not always possible but if there is any opportunity to use something that has been used before without compromising the quality of the finished item then grab it with both hands.
Minimize waste when cutting the parts
One of the biggest potential causes of a project’s carbon footprint is waste. Using cut list software will calculate the optimal way to cut out the individual components of your project and thereby eliminate as much waste as possible.
Our solution for generating cutting patterns is OptiCut. The software optimizes cutting patterns automatically based on a list of parts to minimizes waste, manage material and panel stock, and also generates parts labelling.

In conclusion
Thank you for reading our extensive guide to furniture making and we hope you found it useful in whatever endeavor that you are embarking on. Please let us know via the comments section below how you get on, we would love to see your projects and may showcase some if you were amenable.
If you would like to use our professional design to manufacturing software, contact us to arrange a demo with a member of our technical team.
Click on the following link for advice on how DIY enthusiasts can use our cabinet design software PolyBoard without buying it.