Amish Home Furnishings

Amish furniture is unique, custom crafted and beautiful furnishings that are born out of early American traditions. The Amish have a simple way of life which is reflected in their craft. Producing Amish furniture is a skill that is past down from generation to generation. Children will usually learn this skill at an early age because most will help their families in wood shops. Consequently, some may not finish school beyond the eighth grade, but this is what's expected. Most small family shops will have only four or five craftsmen, while other shops might employ 30 skilled workers.

Many woodworking tools in Amish shops are powered by hydraulic and pneumatic (air or gas) power. The Amish don't believe in using electricity although most communities allow the use of some technology. However, the detail and finish of their work is generally completed by hand to make the best quality furniture possible.

These craftsmen have a great eye for detail. Every piece made is guaranteed to the utmost quality. No piece of furniture is ever the same because of the care taken to select the wood which is usually deciduous oak, rich maple or other hardwoods. The grain is different on every piece of wood, and the woodworker often tries to emphasize the features of each individual piece of furniture.

Some woodworkers focus only on outdoor furniture while others focus on pieces for the living room and bedroom. Some of the popular varieties of Amish furniture are Mission, Shaker and Queen Anne styles. Mission style is characterized by straight lines and exposed woodwork. It is often considered to be clean and contemporary in design. The Shaker style is plain, yet has elegant and simple elements. Shakers basic design style is intended to provide functionality. The Queen Anne style is the direct opposite to the Mission and Shaker styles. It is considered traditional, with ornate moldings, foot details and carved embellishments. All are durable, long-lasting and can be passed down as heirloom pieces.

Amish furniture is available to a wide market but almost all Amish woodworking shops often work with distributors. Selling furniture online is prohibited by the Amish culture so they usually have someone else dealing directly with the consumer. Amish craftsmen have the ability to design practically anything; buffets, cabinets, benches, book cases, chest of drawers, this goes on.

The Amish way of life is rather simple but their beautifully crafted furniture is anything but ordinary.