How to

COMMISSION

I am very fortunate to work with a wide variety of clients. Some are very comfortable commissioning furniture and for others it is a huge leap of faith. One of the favourite parts of my job is getting to know my clients to understand your taste and lifestyle, and seeing the joy in having the perfect piece to match your unique character and needs.

I have worked with clients throughout Australia and overseas, some of whom I have never met, however we worked closely together to overcome distance and logistics to create furniture which my clients love and that I am very proud of.

I am always happy to discuss options and provide an obligation free quote.

Nicholas Bailey

Designer / Furniture Maker

My Commissioning Process

Initial client contact

After making initial contact, I am able to meet several times or chat over the phone to start to understand your requirements.

Creation of the Brief

Every commission starts with your brief. I can work with a very specific brief or am able to discuss a range of options and provide advice on spaces which require furnishing. The brief includes discussion around budget, dimensions for the space, gathering an understanding of your taste and style, discussions around types of timber, colour and finishes for the piece.

Design and Scale Drawings

Once the brief is finalised, the design is drawn up for approval and the making process begins. I use full scale working drawings to visually obtain the best proportions and to ensure functionality of the piece. I keep my clients informed throughout the process with photographs throughout the making process.

The Making Process

The relationship between a craftsman and a stack of rough sawn timber is a curious thing. Turning a tree into a prized piece of furniture requires exceptional skills and passion.

TIMBER SOURCING

I only source timber from a select group of sawmills and suppliers who allow me to inspect each piece before selection. The piece of furniture being made is carefully considered when choosing rough sawn timber.

ADDING SOUL

Each piece of timber is laid out and each board is identified for its use in the piece of furniture. Great care is taken to consider the grain direction and figuring in each board to create the most pleasing and balanced look for the piece of furniture.

Drawer fronts are selected from one board to ensure the grain flows across a complete series of drawers. The planks that make up the tops are matched so that the transition between boards is as seamless as possible. It is at this stage that the piece begins to take shape and develop its soul and unique characteristics.

BLOOD, SWEAT AND TEARS

I strive for perfection in every piece I make. Handwork is a crucial element creating incomparable quality which separates custom made furniture from mass produced pieces. Razor sharp edges on chisels and planes used in hand made furniture ensure that joins come together perfectly and seamlessly. A combination of hand tools and power tools are used to remove, shape and smooth.

Hand made dovetails and mortise and tenon joins mean the piece will hold together for hundreds of years. Most of these joins are hidden within the piece and will only ever be appreciated by a yet to be born furniture restorer.

The Finishing Touch

The functionality of each piece is discussed to understand which type of finish should be used. Whether it is lacquer, varnish or French polish, it is the finish that makes a piece complete. Much time and effort is put into the polishing process which is another trade in itself. Matching, or creating a colour and achieving the required level of gloss or sheen takes time, patience and attention to detail. A beautiful finish establishes warmth and character to bring out the most in each piece.