Made By Hand: Artisanal and Handcrafted Decor
The addition of artisanal and handcrafted pieces will immediately elevate your décor to an artistic level. Handcrafted pieces reflect the time, care and craftsmanship that went into skillfully creating each unique item. Every piece starts as raw material and is then formed into something unique and beautiful. In short, these pieces are built to last. Many of us are fortunate enough to have such items passed down to us from generation to generation. Today's handcrafted furniture becomes tomorrow's heirloom to be enjoyed for years to come. Such elements of décor are not constrained by defined rules, but rather integrate seamlessly into any room style or era. These pieces can feel at home in a rustic setting as well as in a contemporary one.
The magic of artisanal pieces is that they often become the focal point of the room, sparking conversation about the artists and their process. A factory-made lighting fixture will not have a similar provenance. Handcrafted pieces are celebrated for their imperfections as each variation in color, scratch or knot speaks to its authenticity. When you buy a custom handcrafted piece, you become part of the creative process from the outset. You will work closely with the craftsperson to communicate your vision for the finished product. This includes material choices, color scheme and size. With the demand for sustainable products on the rise, the trend toward handcrafted furnishings is right on point.
Here are some costly and more modest ways to capture the feeling of originality and artistry in your own home.
Where to buy?
Happily, there are many online furniture stores for you to choose from, some of which have been creating furniture for generations. Thos. Moser is one such American company committed to craftsmanship and sustainability. While Moser's pieces are not one of a kind, each signed piece is made by a single craftsperson. Search the internet and your local area for furniture design workshops. Another source would be to contact a school of fine furniture to provide a list of graduates in your area. Many schools will sell handcrafted furniture directly to you. Dining room tables, bed frames, lighting fixtures, coffee tables and bookcases are some of the more popular custom pieces available. It is important to keep in mind that purchasing handcrafted furniture is a considerable investment. Given its durability and the enjoyment you will derive from it over the years, it is well worth the investment.
It's the little things that count
Handcrafted side tables, ornate mirrors, custom table lamps, vases, sculpture and woven wall hangings are less expensive accent pieces that still attract attention. Consider buying a traditional woven sweetgrass basket. They have been made in South Carolina by Gullah artisans for more than 300 years. These usable works of art come in a variety of sizes, colors and styles that enhance any décor.
The demand for one-of-a-kind, sustainable, high-quality furnishings has produced a resurgence of skilled artisans to meet this demand. Contact us for more ideas on acquiring handcrafted furnishings to be appreciated now and by future generations.