Good Questions
FAQ
Everything you want to know before reaching out — process, pricing, timeline, and what makes custom furniture worth it.
How does the process work?
It starts with a conversation — either through the consultation form, email, or a phone call. Mark will ask about what you need, the size, the room it's going into, and anything it needs to match. From there he'll come back with a firm quote and a realistic timeline. If you approve, a 50% deposit starts the build.
How much does a custom piece cost?
It depends on the size, wood species, and complexity. Kitchen pieces (cutting boards, spoons) typically run $40–$150. Smaller furniture like nightstands or side tables might start around $400–$600. Beds, dining tables, armoires, and large case pieces generally run $800–$3,000+. Every project gets a firm quote before work begins — no surprise invoices.
How long does it take?
Most furniture takes 4–8 weeks from deposit to delivery. Complex pieces — large armoires, cases with many drawers — or projects commissioned during the busy fall season may run a bit longer. Kitchen pieces (cutting boards, utensils) are usually ready in 1–2 weeks. Mark will give you a real timeline when he quotes the project.
What wood species do you work with?
Mark works with a wide range of domestic hardwoods: white oak, red oak, walnut, cherry, hard maple, soft maple, pecan, and mesquite when available locally. Each species has a different character — grain pattern, hardness, color, and how it responds to finish. Mark will recommend the right species based on your budget, the look you want, and how the piece will be used.
Can you match wood I already own?
Yes — this is one of the most common requests. Bring a photo, or better yet a small offcut or drawer from the existing piece, and Mark will do his best to match species, grain, and finish tone. When an exact species match isn't possible, staining can often close the gap. He'll be honest about what's achievable before you commit.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes. A 50% deposit is required before work begins. It covers materials and reserves Mark's time for your project. The remaining 50% is due at delivery or pickup.
Do you deliver?
Local delivery is available throughout Central Texas. For customers further out, Mark can arrange delivery or coordinate pickup from the shop. Larger pieces like beds and armoires require some planning for delivery — he'll discuss the options during the quoting process.
What if I need a size that doesn't exist in stores?
That's exactly what custom furniture is for. Beds for rooms with low ceilings, tables for awkward alcoves, desks for non-standard walls — if you can describe the constraint, Mark can design around it. He's built pieces to fit rooms that no catalog furniture could ever address.
What if something isn't right when it arrives?
Mark stands behind his work. If there's a defect in the joinery, a surface issue, or something that isn't what you agreed to — he'll make it right. This is one of the things you're paying for when you buy from a craftsman rather than a catalog: there's someone who cares whether it's correct and whose name is on it.
Do you teach woodworking classes?
Yes. Mark teaches small hands-on classes covering hand-tool fundamentals, proper joinery techniques, and finished project builds. Classes are capped at six students so everyone gets real time with the tools. Contact him directly to ask about upcoming class dates or to discuss a private lesson.
Still have questions?
The fastest answer is a short conversation with Mark. He checks messages every morning.