Notch & Nail Custom Woodworking: What to Expect When You Commission Furniture

What Notch & Nail Does

Notch & Nail is a custom woodworking shop in South Carolina that builds furniture to your specifications rather than selling pieces off a showroom floor. The shop works directly with clients to design and craft tables, cabinets, shelving, bed frames, and other wood pieces tailored to your space, style, and budget. Every piece is made by hand in their workshop, which means timelines are longer than buying ready-made furniture, but the result is built to last and fitted exactly to what you need.

The shop specializes in solid wood construction and works with clients across South Carolina, from the Lowcountry to the Upstate. They handle everything from initial design consultation through delivery and installation, so you are not managing multiple vendors or contractors.

Key Takeaways

• Notch & Nail builds each piece by hand in their workshop, so you work with the makers directly rather than ordering from a catalog.
• The design process starts with a consultation where you discuss your space, style preferences, wood choices, and budget before any work begins.
• Custom pieces typically take several weeks to several months depending on complexity and the shop's current workload.
• You can visit the workshop to see work in progress, discuss changes, and understand how your piece is being built.
• Solid wood furniture from a custom shop costs more upfront than mass-produced pieces but often lasts decades with proper care.

How the Design and Build Process Works

The first step is a consultation where you meet with the woodworkers to discuss what you need. Bring photos of your space, measurements of where the piece will go, and examples of styles you like. Talk about how you plan to use the furniture—a dining table that hosts large dinners has different demands than one for everyday family meals. This conversation shapes everything that follows.

Once the shop understands your vision, they create a design and provide a quote. This is when you discuss wood species (oak, walnut, cherry, and others have different colors, grain patterns, and price points), finish options, hardware, and any special features like drawers, shelves, or hidden compartments. You can request changes at this stage before construction begins.

After you approve the design and price, the build starts. Depending on the piece and the shop's schedule, construction typically takes four to twelve weeks. Many clients visit during this time to see their furniture taking shape and make any adjustments before the final finish is applied.

Wood Species and Finish Options

The wood you choose affects the look, durability, and cost of your piece. Walnut is dark and rich, popular for modern and traditional designs, and holds up well to daily use. Oak is lighter, has visible grain, and is often chosen for farmhouse and rustic styles. Cherry deepens in color over time and works well for formal furniture. Maple is pale and fine-grained, often used for contemporary pieces. Notch & Nail can source other species depending on your preference and budget.

The finish protects the wood and determines whether the piece has a matte, satin, or glossy appearance. Oil finishes show the wood grain most clearly but require periodic maintenance. Polyurethane finishes are more durable and easier to clean, making them practical for tables and kitchen pieces. Stains can adjust the wood's natural color, and paint is an option for pieces where you want a specific color rather than showing the grain.

Pricing and What Affects Cost

Custom woodworking is not priced like furniture from a big-box store. A handmade dining table from Notch & Nail costs more than a similar-sized table from a mass-produced retailer, but it is built to withstand decades of use and can be repaired if damaged. The price reflects the time spent designing, the quality of materials, the skill of the craftspeople, and the overhead of running a workshop.

Several factors change the final cost: the size and complexity of the piece, the wood species you choose, the finish, and any custom details like dovetail joints, inlays, or specialized hardware. A simple shelving unit costs less than a built-in cabinet with multiple drawers and adjustable shelves. Discuss your budget during the initial consultation so the shop can design something that fits your needs and price range.

Timeline and Delivery

Custom work takes time. A straightforward piece like a bookshelf or simple table might be ready in four to six weeks. More complex furniture—a large cabinet with multiple drawers, a bed frame with built-in storage, or a piece with intricate joinery—can take three to four months or longer. The shop will give you a realistic timeline during the design phase and update you if anything changes.

Notch & Nail handles delivery and installation, which means your finished piece arrives ready to use. They can place it in your home, assemble any components, and make sure it is level and secure. This service is included in most commissions and removes the hassle of figuring out how to get a large, heavy piece into your space.

Visiting the Workshop and Seeing Your Piece

One advantage of working with a local custom shop is that you can visit the workshop and watch your furniture being built. Many clients find this part of the process rewarding—seeing the raw wood become a finished piece, understanding the craftsmanship involved, and having the chance to request adjustments before the final steps. Call ahead to schedule a visit, as the shop may be working with other clients or finishing pieces.

The workshop also serves as a showroom where you can see examples of past work, feel different wood finishes, and get a sense of the shop's style and quality. If you are unsure what you want, spending time in the space often clarifies your preferences.

Care and Maintenance of Custom Wood Furniture

Solid wood furniture requires some care to stay beautiful. Dust regularly with a soft cloth, and wipe spills promptly to prevent water marks. Avoid placing hot dishes directly on the surface—use trivets or placemats. Keep the furniture away from direct sunlight and heating vents, which can cause wood to fade or crack over time.

The finish you choose determines maintenance needs. Oil finishes may need reapplication every year or two. Polyurethane finishes are more low-maintenance but can eventually wear in high-traffic areas. Notch & Nail can advise on care specific to your piece and can refinish or repair furniture years after it is built, which is one reason custom pieces are a long-term investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a custom piece take from start to finish?

Simple pieces like shelves or small tables typically take four to six weeks. More complex furniture with multiple drawers, built-in features, or intricate details can take three to four months. The shop provides a timeline during the design phase and keeps you updated if the schedule changes.

Can I change the design after construction starts?

Minor changes are often possible early in the build, but major changes may delay the timeline or add cost. This is why the design approval step is important—it is the time to make sure everything is exactly what you want before the shop begins cutting and assembling wood.

What if I do not know what I want?

The woodworkers at Notch & Nail are experienced at helping clients figure out what works for their space. Bring photos of rooms you like, measurements of your space, and examples of styles that appeal to you. The consultation is designed to help you clarify your vision.

Do you work with reclaimed or salvaged wood?

Contact Notch & Nail directly to discuss whether they can source reclaimed wood for your project. Some custom shops specialize in this, while others work primarily with new lumber. They can tell you what options are available and how reclaimed wood affects the timeline and cost.

Can you repair or refinish furniture I already own?

Many custom woodworking shops offer repair and refinishing services for existing pieces. Reach out to Notch & Nail with photos and details about what you need, and they can let you know whether it is something they can help with.