When you order a custom piece of furniture, you’re not just buying a product—you’re investing in craftsmanship, quality, and something made specifically for your space and style. But how long should you expect the process to take from design to delivery?
Let’s walk through the typical timeline for custom furniture so you know what to expect and how to plan.
Phase 1: The Design and Consultation Stage (1–2 Weeks)
Every great piece begins with a plan. Whether you need a dining table, a set of handcrafted chairs, or a full-room suite, the design stage sets the tone for everything to follow.
- Initial consultation to discuss dimensions, function, and aesthetics
- Selection of wood species, finishes, and hardware
- Sketches, mockups, or digital models for review and approval
- Finalizing measurements and securing design sign-off
This stage typically lasts a week or two, depending on the level of customization and communication.
Phase 2: Material Sourcing and Shop Prep (1–3 Weeks)
Once the design is confirmed, the process moves into material selection and workshop preparation. This part of the timeline depends heavily on what kind of wood and hardware are being used.
- Common domestic hardwoods like oak or walnut may be available sooner
- Specialty woods or reclaimed lumber may take longer to acquire
- Larger or more intricate pieces may require custom tooling or jig setup
While simple projects might be ready for build within a week, more unique orders can take several weeks to fully prep.
Phase 3: Crafting the Piece (2–6 Weeks)
This is where the magic happens. Experienced woodworkers begin shaping, joining, and finishing your Rigby custom furniture. The build time varies based on size and detail.
- A basic solid wood table might take 2–3 weeks
- A table with detailed joinery or inlays might take 4–5 weeks
- Large sets or complex chair builds could extend to 6+ weeks
Every cut, joint, and finish is done with care—not rushed.
Phase 4: Finishing and Delivery (1 Week)
Once construction is complete, the piece undergoes its final transformation.
- Sanding, staining, sealing, or oil finishing
- Final inspections and touch-ups
- Safe packaging and delivery arrangements
This last stage is essential for ensuring your custom piece not only looks beautiful but arrives in perfect condition.
The Big Picture: Most Projects Take 4–10 Weeks Total
On average, a typical custom furniture project takes between 4 and 10 weeks from start to finish. While it’s not as fast as buying something off the shelf, the quality and attention to detail are worth the wait.
And if you ever need insight on where your order stands, a quick check-in with your local maker—like our team here at Fox in the Sawdust—can give you peace of mind.
Conclusion
Customized furniture isn’t made in a day—and that’s exactly what makes it special. When every detail is shaped by hand, the result is a lasting piece built just for you. Call Fox in the Sawdust at (208) 351‑2334 to get started on your own timeless design, and we’ll walk you through every step of the process.