Amish furniture making is mostly known for being constructed from solid
wood, using no particle board or laminate, and great attention to detail is
paid to the wood itself. The pieces are appreciated for its heirloom quality
that can be passed down and valued by different generations.
The techniques used by Amish craftsmen do not require electricity; their
tools are hydraulically and pneumatically powered by running on diesel
generators. A common characteristic of their furniture is the five-piece
English dovetail joints on drawers and steel ball bearing drawer glides.
The Mission style features classic, straight lines, exposed joinery and
boasts a clean design. Similarly, the Shaker style is very simple and is
designed with functionality and durability in mind. Starting early in their
life, many are devoted to helping in the family shop where if they
are woodworkers, they pick up particular design details. Retailers often
attend furniture expositions in middle-America to develop relationships with
these craftsmen and then become facilitators between the craftsman and the
buyer.
Read the article on "What
is a Shaker?" to learn more about their lifestyles and beliefs.