I was recently contacted by a new client interested in ordering the Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table. I invited Jane and Paul to the Shop to see the table in person. They loved the design but needed a custom size to better fit their living space. We agreed to build a wider and taller table than the standard design. With the dimensions figured out, we began discussing wood types. They chose black walnut with a natural finish, similar to the display model. Upon agreeing to the details, they left the shop excited for their new table.

A week later they came back to pick-up their new custom coffee table. Yet, upon presentation I was met with disappointed faces. They explained that they were expecting a darker brown with reddish tones. They explained that the color was important as it needed to match the existing furniture in the room. As a furniture maker my mission statement is simple; to build handcrafted heirloom quality wood furniture that provides value to the family’s I serve. I immediately offered to remake the table. I could not be proud of my work, knowing Jane and Paul were disappointed.

Mid Century Modern Coffee Table side detail.

I made a mistake. Different timbers from the same species of tree can yield different grain patterns and colors. The walnut floor model that Jane and Paul saw in my showroom used lumber from Cedarburg, WI and had a natural reddish tint. However, the timber I used for their table came La Crosses, WI and had a brown chocolate tone. I explained to them that natural walnut comes in a variation of colors and suggested a stain to achieve the right color. They agreed, and I provided stain samples until we found the color they were looking for.

A week later Jane and Paul were back at the shop to pick up their finished table. They loved it. In the end it was a good lesson learned. Jane and Paul were happy with the service and ecstatic to show off their new table to family and friends and I was pleased knowing that they were satisfied with my craftsmanship.

Tables Side by Side. Natural finish on the left, Stained table on the right.