Inside the James & James Factory

If you've spent time shopping for furniture, you may have noticed that it's quite rare that something is made in the USA. It's almost non-existant.

American-made furniture has become less and less popular in recent years, with most of US furniture being produced overseas and imported. But what does it mean to be American-made? What it is really like? I was on a mission to find out.

When I first heard about James & James, I was super impressed by the brand's overall approach to crafting furniture the right way, to last for an entire lifetime. I ended up getting pretty close with some of the leaders of James & James and was lucky enough to become an advisor to the brand shortly thereafter. But I still didn't have a true sense of what they did and how they did it...

I flew from Los Angeles to Springdale, Arkansas, to find out. The below is a piece I created for another furniture publication, documenting my entire journey to The James & James factory, affectionately known as "The Woodshop," and I'm happy to share it here with you.

Rediscovering Real American Furniture Craftsmanship

One brand keeping things red, white, and blue is Arkansas-based maker James & James. They specialize in handcrafted, solid wood furniture built to be loved for generations.

I had the opportunity to tour their factory for a one-of-a-kind peek behind the scenes of their production. Traveling from Los Angeles to Springdale, Arkansas, I received a masterclass in the heritage, craftsmanship, and heart that goes into their American production.

The Heart of American Craftsmanship: Why It Matters

American-made furniture is synonymous with skill and a commitment to quality. With production often at a smaller scale, there is a detail-oriented, hands-on approach at every stage, from sourcing materials to delivering orders!

James & James guards a tradition that values quality over mass production. Each piece of solid wood furniture is hand-made by real people with dedication and pride.

Local production allows brands to avoid international delays, reduce environmental impact, and guarantee fair labor and quality craftsmanship. As a customer, you can enjoy premium pieces that arrive in a fraction of the time it would take to import them! Pretty sweet, right? “I really believe that in the next 10 to 15 years, American production can make a big comeback,” said Jim Pike, the James & James CEO.

It’s this passion that drives the company to keep its entire process—from the woodshop to the showroom—under one roof.

Inside the James & James Woodshop

Every piece of James & James furniture starts its journey as raw lumber sourced from American mills. This is where craftsmanship begins, blending traditional techniques with modern precision.

1. Sourcing the Lumber

“Everything we use comes directly from mills, and every piece is touched by our employees here. Nothing’s outsourced or pre-made,” explains Justin, Build Lead.

2. Initial Cuts and Assembly

Lumber is cut and prepared for specific projects—be it a dining table, bed, or custom order. Pieces are glued and shaped into tabletops, legs, and frames.

3. Planing and Smoothing

Artisans carefully plane and smooth the wood, ensuring tactile perfection and flawless surfaces ready for finishing.

4. Sanding, Routing, and Staining

Edges are shaped, surfaces sanded, and natural wood grains enhanced with high-quality stains that add depth and beauty.

5. Sealing for Durability

An oil-based polyurethane seal adds protection against daily wear and tear, ensuring each piece is as durable as it is beautiful.

Showroom Highlights: Where Form Meets Function

After seeing the woodshop and American craftsmanship that goes into each piece, I had the chance to visit the James & James showroom, where the finished products are displayed as they might look in a home.

Product Spotlights

• The Olivia Table: Warm tones and a versatile design make this dining table a favorite for families and entertainers alike.

• Porch Swings: Durable and customizable, these swings add charm and character to porches of all sizes.

• The Luna Bed: Crafted from white oak, this bed’s luxurious headboard and satin finish combine elegance with durability.

Customization Options

One of the standout features of James & James is their bevy of customization options. Customers can create a piece that fits perfectly into their unique home and lifestyle, choosing everything from dimensions to the type of wood and wood finish. 

“Everything is truly customizable to whatever your heart desires,” says Emma, who oversees the showroom.

Why Handcrafted Furniture Stands Out

Handcrafted furniture offers something factory-made pieces can’t: individuality and artistry.

• Each Piece Tells a Story: Handcrafted furniture showcases the unique patterns of wood grain and natural imperfections, making every item a one-of-a-kind creation.

• Attention to Detail: James & James’ artisans focus on the smallest details, from sanding live edges to securing joints.

• Built to Last: Unlike mass-produced furniture made with veneers or particle board, solid wood pieces from James & James grow more beautiful over time, turning into generational heirlooms.

Sustainability at James & James

James & James champions sustainability by creating furniture that avoids the wastefulness of disposable, fast furniture. Their commitment to using American-sourced materials reduces their environmental footprint and supports local economies.

By investing in a James & James piece, customers choose meaningful, long-lasting craftsmanship over mass production.

Caring for Your James & James Furniture

To keep your solid wood furniture looking pristine, follow these care tips:

• Dust Regularly: Use a soft, dry cloth to maintain the finish.

• Protect Against Moisture: Always use coasters and clean spills promptly.

• Avoid Prolonged Sunlight: Exposure can cause fading or discoloration.

• Use Felt Pads: Protect surfaces from scratches caused by heavy decor.

Simple care ensures your James & James furniture remains as stunning as the day it arrived.

James & James: Built to Be Loved

James & James cuts through the noise of mass-produced furniture to deliver furniture you can be proud to invest in. It's clear that their story is one of dedication and craftsmanship, backed by a belief that American-made means something truly remarkable.

Frequently Asked Questions About James & James Furniture

1. How Durable Are James & James Finishes?

James & James uses a protective polyurethane seal, making their furniture resistant to everyday wear and tear, from spills to scratches. This ensures your investment will withstand the rigors of daily life.

2. Can I Customize My Furniture?

Absolutely! James & James offers extensive customization options, including dimensions, wood species, and finishes. Every piece is tailored to fit your home and lifestyle.

3. What Is the Lead Time for Custom Orders?

Because every piece is made to order, typical lead times are around 10 weeks. This timeframe ensures the highest level of craftsmanship.

4. Do They Offer Commercial Furniture?

Yes, James & James caters to commercial clients, including companies like Microsoft and Warner Music Group. They provide custom solutions for a wide range of business needs.

5. How Do I Care for James & James Furniture?

Maintain the beauty of your solid wood furniture by using coasters, dusting regularly with a soft cloth, and keeping it away from prolonged direct sunlight. Proper care ensures your furniture will last for generations.