How To Work with a Professional Carpenter on a Custom Table?

published Oct 11, 2015

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Q: I completed a full apartment renovation last year and am planning to use the small 2nd bedroom as a crafts/guest room. After much deliberation and looking online for ideas, I’ve finally decided what I would like to have in the space. Unfortunately, I have never actually seen the table that I want, so I’m considering working with a carpenter to custom build the specific piece of furniture for the room. What would be the best way to communicate and work with the carpenter to get the piece exactly as I have in mind? I can’t draw at all, so that’s not an option…

Would a list of specs be enough? Should I ask the carpenter to provide me sketches? Should I engage with a designer to assist in this?

I feel it’s a simple job, but I’ve disappointed in the past because of not being able to communicate my ideas. It seems that if it doesn’t fall into their preconceived ideas, it’s hard to get someone to push their boundaries. Any thoughts on how to get what’s right for me, and not what the builder thinks is right for me?-Sent by Lisa

Editor: This is an excellent question, Lisa! Readers, please share your custom furniture experiences, your carpenter communication advice, and your getting-professionals-to-dream-big-and-branch-out tips!

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