Distressing Options for Furniture
Articles > Distressing Options for Furniture
April 21, 2020

“Distressing” may be a word with negative connotations, but it can actually be a big positive for your wood furniture. In woodworking, distressing describes a series of processes that create simulated marks of aging and wear for a unique look. This doesn’t lower the quality of your wood furniture — instead, it helps give it distinctive character.

Distressed Edges

We offer two types of distressed edges for our furniture pieces. Our Hand Worn Edge sands down all the edges along the top of the piece to create a smooth, “hand worn” feel. To create the Hand Hewn Edge, our craftsmen hit the edges of the piece with a small hatchet or knife to give the wood furniture more of a rough-hewn appearance.

Distressed Tops

We provide several options for distressing our tops. Many of our distressed tops are crafted by hand planing the surface with different bits. This can be used to create planked, ridged, or rolling surfaces, resulting in lines of varied widths and depths. Distressing can also be performed using a paddle equipped with nails, rocks, or even a chain to create the nicks and markings you’d find in an antique piece.

All By Hand

One thing that makes our distressed furniture unique is that it is all hand crafted. We don’t have machines making the same distressed patterns in each piece. Because all distressing is done by hand, no two wood furniture pieces are exactly alike. 

At Swiss Valley Furniture, our skilled craftsmen are dedicated to helping you create your dream wood furniture piece. Distressed furniture goes great in both formal and “countryside” settings, making it a highly versatile option for your home. Contact us today to learn more about our distressed furniture options.