James & James Cosmetic Standards
At James & James, we take great pride in each and every unique piece of solid hardwood furniture that we sell. Our team hand-finishes each piece of Furniture, crafting it from solid hardwood with a rustic, reclaimed appearance. Given the handmade and hand-finished craftsmanship of our products, natural variations and imperfections in the wood are to be expected and celebrated! Just as every tree in unique, so too is every piece of furniture that is handcrafted and hand finished just for you. Every piece of furniture will have a unique grain pattern and slight color variation.
Other characteristics of handcrafted, solid wood furniture include open knots, (please note that knots on top surfaces are filled by our craftsmen for a smooth finish) visible brush strokes, micro-imperfections, and textural variations. Other characteristics can include but are not limited to distress marks, exposed hardware, wood filler marks, rustic welds, metal oxidation, joint lines and other minor imperfections. We allow up to 1” of variation across all measurements due to the custom, handcrafted nature of our furniture.
Solid wood may expand and contract due to changes in temperature and humidity. This natural movement enhances the one-of-a-kind beauty of solid hardwood and handcrafted furniture. This movement does not affect the structural integrity and is not considered defective. While James & James makes every attempt to provide the best photos of our finished pieces, each piece created is unique. We do not offer machine manufactured perfection. No two pieces are exactly alike since James & James furniture is crafted to your order specifications. We celebrate the true uniqueness of every piece of solid wood furniture that is built and finished by hand in our woodshop.
Cosmetic Variation Examples
Joint Lines
A joint line is the seam where two pieces of wood are joined together in a piece of furniture. At James & James, we carefully craft each joint for strength and durability. While joint lines may be visible, they are a natural part of solid wood furniture and do not affect the integrity or quality of the piece. Our focus is on ensuring that every connection is secure and built to last.
Wood Checks
Wood checks are natural cracks that can appear in solid wood as it responds to changes in humidity and temperature. Checks are a normal part of the aging process of real wood and add to its unique character. They do not impact the strength or durability of your furniture. Rather than seeing these small cracks as flaws, we view them as a testament to the authenticity of the material, showcasing the natural beauty and individuality of each piece.
Textural Variation
Textural variation refers to the different surfaces and grain patterns naturally found in solid wood. No two pieces are exactly alike, and the texture may vary from smooth areas to more rugged, natural grain patterns. These variations are a hallmark of handcrafted, solid wood furniture and contribute to the individuality and beauty of each piece. They are a reminder of the natural origin of the materials and do not affect the quality or durability of the furniture.
Open Knots
Open knots are natural features in solid wood that occur where branches once grew. At James & James, we preserve the beauty and character of these knots while ensuring a smooth, functional surface. Please note that our team automatically fills open knots on all surface areas, such as tabletops, to create a consistent finish. This process maintains the integrity of the wood while allowing the unique patterns of the knots to shine through, adding character without compromising durability or usability.
Metal Oxidation
Metal oxidation is a natural process that can occur when metal components are exposed to air and moisture over time, leading to slight changes in color or patina. At James & James, we appreciate how this subtle aging process enhances the character of metal accents in our furniture. While oxidation may alter the appearance, it does not affect the strength or functionality of the metal.