Why We Use Solid Wood at FigureGrain
At FigureGrain, every piece begins with a simple, honest material: solid hardwood. We believe the things you live with every day should be made from materials that are not only beautiful, but also long-lasting, sustainable, and meaningful. That’s why we choose to work exclusively with solid wood—never veneers, MDF, or synthetic imitations.
1. Natural Beauty That Lasts
Each board of walnut, oak, maple, or mahogany we use is hand-selected for its grain, tone, and texture. No two pieces are alike. That natural variation is what makes solid wood so special—its imperfections, its warmth, and its ability to develop character over time. We’re constantly fascinated by the unique beauty of each board, and how no two are ever exactly the same. Veneers and laminates may look fine at first, but they often fade, peel, or bubble with wear. Solid wood, on the other hand, ages gracefully and becomes more beautiful the longer you live with it.
2. Built to Be Repaired, Not Replaced
When you invest in a solid wood piece, you're investing in something meant to last. Unlike manufactured wood products, our solid joinery allows for refinishing, tightening, or re-oiling over time. If a piece gets scratched, it can be sanded and restored. If it dulls, it can be refreshed. That's not just good design—that's sustainability in action.
3. A Connection to Craft
There’s a quiet joy in shaping real wood. David especially enjoys working with his hands, letting the grain guide each cut and joint. The material speaks for itself. Our work is grounded in traditional joinery methods—like cross-lap and dowel joints—that respect the integrity of the wood and require no visible screws or nails. Solid wood lets us honor these traditions while creating something clean, modern, and functional.
4. Sustainability, One Piece at a Time
We source our lumber from responsible local suppliers, choosing FAS-grade hardwoods that are either domestic or ethically imported. We make intentional cuts to reduce waste. And when we say we plant trees, we mean it. Choosing solid wood allows us to work within a natural cycle—one that values thoughtful making and long-term impact.
In a World of Shortcuts, We Choose the Long Way
Working with solid wood takes more time, more effort, and more care. But to us, that’s what makes it worth it. We don’t just want our pieces to look good today—we want them to look even better 10 years from now. Thank you for choosing pieces that tell a story, grow with you, and honor the materials they’re made from.
From our hands to your home, – Chloe & David, FigureGrain