|
|
In the views above, you can get an idea of how the individual logs are shaped
to fit into each other. This takes a lot of patience, some skill, and the time
adds up, but you really can do it. We recommend starting with an easier kit, like
the smallest rectangular table before trying trickier pieces like rocking chairs.
The table and benches shown above are "ready-to-finish", meaning that
no sanding sealer, stain, or clear coats have been applied. This allows
you to control the color. We recommend that for frequent outdoor usage,
you either apply a thick glaze such as the one we apply to the dining room tables,
or weatherproof them with waterproof stains and clear coats.
(The finished octagonal table shown below has a thick
glaze finish already applied.)
Read about log selection at the left, and then talk to Lynn Radtke, our owner,
for help in deciding what logs to buy, or whether to buy our pre-cut kits instead.
When you call, write, or email to buy logs, we will need the following
information:
- Length of each individual log
- Minimum diameter of each individual log
- Species (or just hardwood vs softwood) per log
- Condition of each log: kiln dried, air dried, or green
|
Information About Traditional And Rustic Furniture Kits
|
Call for prices.
These kits are sold at a significant discount from the price of the finished
furniture, but the exact price varies a little depending on how busy the Amish
craftsmen and their families are. It takes time and effort to select the best
logs, and the price of logs can vary, too.
|
Call for shipping costs.
We usually ship via UPS ground, which is relatively quick and not very expensive.
The UPS rates depend on where you want delivery, and whether the destination
is a residence or a commercial building. UPS will also ship COD (Cash On Delivery)
for a small extra fee.
|
Use the buttons at the left to look at assembled furniture pieces.
To select a kit, just look at our regular log furniture pages. The weights
will be the same as the finished pieces, and the final size will be the same, too,
unless you modify the kit.
|
You may also request custom kits.
We can cut logs to whatever size you want for your own custom designs, or
if you want to make one of our standard pieces larger or smaller.
You may also ask for logs that are more or less crooked. Remember
that extra-bent logs are harder to find and will cost more!
|
Links to sources for ideas, tips, tools, and supplies.
From time to time we will add links here as we research other
websites that have helpful information or quality tools and supplies.
Log and Rustic Furniture Directory
An online index of rustic & log furniture companies,
craftsman and retailers in the United States
and Canada. A clickable map oriented tool makes it easy to find sources where you live!
( Look for us there in Wisconsin. )
Log Homes Directory
Follow their state by state guides in case you are interested
in buying or building a log cabin or home.
They include links to other log furniture makers and sellers, from whom you might find
inspirations for your own designs. (But remember to come back here for the logs you will need!)
Tenon cutters and bits
The same folks above also offer this page specifically for the tools you need
to shape the joints.
Cutters, guides, clamps, and more tools
This site has a very good selection of tools and the necessary accessories and blades.
They also offer books and a catalog for log home owners.
More tools for drilling and cutting
Go see this great selection of woodworking tools of interest to log
furniture makers and to all homeowners (as they also have masonry, glass, fiberglass,
and metal working drillbits).
Traditional woodworking tools
A family-owned business in Texas stocking carpenter and carving tools.
You will definitely need chisels, gouges, planes, saws, and measuring tools like theirs.
Plans for making log beds
You can buy their plans on-line and download them in minutes.
These can be built without expensive tools if you have enough time.
Of course, you will need enough working space and some logs, too!
Valspar stains and clear finishes
This is what the webmaster here uses
for furniture that must withstand sunlight and rain! Valspar has at least two products
good for outdoor use. Their "Man O'War" brand seems to be their best grade.
|
