Special Outdoor Living Advertising Section!
Winter | 2019
Contents FEATURED
6 OHFM Prepares for Spring show 20 Spotlight on Featured Designs 44 Quality is the best sales tool 51 Special Outdoor Living Advertising Section ON THE COVER:
Sunrise Furniture combines reclaimed barn wood with distressed finishing in the Surfside Table and Bench and Silver Lake chairs. The table and server tops, chair and bench seat are finished in LoSheen Natural, while the table and bench base, chair and server frame are shown in LoSheen OCS342 Country White with Van Dyke Brown Glaze.
See ad on page 15
57 Reclaimed and Rustic species still very popular 58 Index of advertisers 60 Map to advertiser locations
Volume 6 | Number Three | Winter 2019 Published by: Dutch Country Publishing, LLC P.O. Box 248 • Fredericksburg, OH 44627 Phone 3302758097 | Fax 3304394231 send inquiries to: editor@eiwmagazine.com facebook.com/eiwmagazine
This publication and its contents are copyright 2019, Dutch Country Publishing, LLC. Individual copyrighted items, trademarks, etc. contained within are the property of their copyright holders. No part of this publication may be reproduced or redistributed by any means without the expressed, written authorization of the publisher.
THE TEAM: Jerry Klingerman: Owner, Publisher Andrew Miller: Account Executive Karen Yoder: Graphic Artist/Production Asst. Meredith Klingerman: Editorial Assistant
Publisher’s Message
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hen you send magazines across the entire USA and publish your office phone number you’re bound to receive some interesting calls. Sometimes, people have moved, or retired and closed their stores and want to let us know. Sometimes, callers are looking for a particular piece of furniture that they saw in the magazine and want to know if we can put them in touch with the builder. (We’re always happy to do that!) Probably the strangest phone call we ever received was several years back when a person called and absolutely insisted that we should place the magazine in plastic bags so their postal carrier couldn’t look through it! The caller was adamant that the carrier could look through the magazine, get in touch directly with a manufacturer and order a piece of furniture, thereby “going around” their local store. I took a deep breath and explained to the caller that, A) I’ve known several postal carriers and they don’t have time to read on the job and, B) our magazine is sent to manufacturers who don’t deal directly with the public even if they happen to drop by their shop — let alone work with a consumer calling from several states away. Let’s just say those answers didn’t satisfy this person, and that’s a brief explanation of a call that lasted quite a while! But the calls we like getting the most are from retailers who are ready to explore putting high-quality, Amish-built furniture on their sales floor. My advice is always the same: “Come to a show.” If you really want to get a feel for the beauty and quality of the furniture constructed here in Ohio’s Amish Country Furniture District, the best thing to
do is attend one of the semi-annual Ohio Hardwood Furniture Market events. There, you can see hundreds of pieces of the best products this region has to offer, and meet directly with the people who build them. You’ll see everything from the latest contemporary designs that the younger buyers are demanding, to very traditional designs — and everything in between. You’ll also discover that when you deal directly with the builder you can give instant feedback, talk about changes or options you’d like to see or even discuss ideas for completely new designs. I don’t know of anywhere else where you can work directly with a manufacturer to give direct input like this. And I honestly can’t think of a better way to learn about the people and products from this area than to come to a show, meet the builders directly and see their furniture firsthand. Excuse me for sounding forward, but if you’ve never been here, you’re missing out. Ohio’s Amish Country is one of the prettiest places in the nation, the people are some of the nicest you’ll ever meet and the furniture built here is of exceptional quality. On behalf of Expressions In Woodcraft and our local furniture manufacturing community I’d like to personally invite you to the Spring 2019 Ohio Hardwood Furniture Market. We’ll see you at the show! —G.R. Klingerman, Publisher Note: Because we believe so strongly in the value of attending the Ohio hardwood Furniture market we’ve devoted the majority of the article space in this issue to the OHFM, including a first-ever complete list of our advertisers who will be exhibiting the show (see page 40)
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On With The Show!
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wice a year, the furniture manufacturers in Ohio’s Amish Country Furniture District gather to showcase their work to buyers, potential buyers and old friends from across the country. Old friends? Yes. It’s a fact that over the years a great many furniture builders have established business relationships that have blossomed into longstanding friendships with the folks who purchase their high-quality hardwood furniture. They may have begun purchasing from a builder who has now turned the reins over to his sons, and little children who used to scamper barefoot around the workshop may have grown into adults who are now running the business, but through the years, one thing hasn’t changed: Quality. It is quality that made this industry,and quality that sustains it. Retail store owners travel to Ohio’s Amish Country Furniture District not necessarily because it’s convenient, but because the quality of craftsmanship here has no equal. When you add to that, the fact that there has been a virtual explosion of creativity and innovation in this industry in Continued on page 8>>>
Dates:.......................March 20-21 Location: .................Harvest Ridge, Millersburg AND The Mt. Hope Event Center (see page 58) Registration info: ....www.ohiohardwoodfurnituremarket.com or 877-643-8824
the last 10 years, it’s easy to understand not only ing with the ‘English’ world requires them. It’s well why the “Amish Furniture” brand has come to symworth noting that local companies owned or operbolize quality, but also why so may retailers are so ated by Plain people have worked very hard to easily willing to do what it takes to do business help bring solutions to the market that allow the here. needed communication to take place, but with limWhat does that mean? itations that keep those technologies . Simply put...there are “Amish” computers and “word Expressions In Woodcraft Publisher Jerry Klingerprocessors” that are in wide use. These machines man explains, “Occasionally it takes a little extra allow Amish-owned businesses and service effort to do business here. We still have a great providers to send e-mail and perform basic commany furniture manufacturers who communicate puting functions, but also have built-in technolovia messages left on voice mail, fax and sometimes gies that restrict full Web access. only US Mail.” While no one expects the entire community emDoes that mean everyone communicates this brace web-based technologies as a whole, Klingerway? No. “I’ve been involved in the furniture comContinued on page 10 munity for 15 years now, and I have seen a great deal of change. I remember when some Amish churches first began to loosen restrictions of owning fax machines, and also began to allow business owners to put a phone in their office (as opposed to a “phone shanty).” In the years since those notable changes began to make it easier for the craftsmen to communicate with customers, changes have continued to take place. “You’ll see e-mail addresses and websites for some of our clients,” Klingerman said. He is quick to add, “Not everyone is using e-mail or websites, but even those who still cannot do so more often than not can at least use a file-sharing service,” that allows customers 24-hour access to their catalogue, images or pricing. People are sometimes surprised to learn that a culture that has a reputaAnother example of change: Twenty years ago, “Entertainment Centers” were tion for being removed from the out- big, boxy units that took up large spaces in consumers’ living rooms, and usually side world would use such tools, but had doors that allowed the TV to be concealed. But as flat screen TVs began to dominate the market, furniture builders in Ohio’s Amish Country Furniture DisKlingerman says, “That’s just what trict responded by building units that allowed flat screens to de displayed on stylthey are — tools.” And more and ish furniture bore very little resemblance to the old products. Here, we see a more there is a realization that work- Mid-Century Modern interpretation of the TV stand in three different sizes and finishes. 8
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OHFM — Continued from page 8
niture itself has gone through “a complete transformation.” I can’t even begin to tell folks how creative and responsive this community has been and continues to be.” The traditional styles, best symbolized by the Honey Oak, or “Country Oak” may have been what first attracted the attention of the outside world en masse, but about 10 years ago manufacturers began to realize that younger buyers simply do not respond well to those looks. Klingerman said, “The shows themselves are the best example of the changes that have occurred. I’ve talked about it a number of times with builders, and others in the community. If you could see pictures of shows that took place 10 years ago, and compared them to the most-recent shows, you would see that virtually everything has changed. There really isn’t any other way to say it.”
man sees it as something that will continue — not because Amish furniture manufacturers want it, but because “the English world is impatient. We’re so used to getting everything we want with a click of a mouse, or by tapping on the screen of a smart phone that it’s us who are placing the pressure on the furniture manufacturing community to adopt these technologies.” He continued, “Change does happen here. But it happens slowly, and in a careful, measured way.” Will more Amish furniture manufacturers continue to seek web-based methods to meet the demands of the outside world? “Probably,” Klingerman says Why would we devote so much space to this topic in an article designed to promote a furniture show? “It’s all part of the process of understanding,” Klingerman says. The outside world still has Same show, two locations many misconceptions about the Amish culture in For the second time, the show will be held in general, and definitely the furniture world. We betwo locations: Harvest Ridge, which serves as the lieve that the more we can help people understand Continued on page 16 th community, the more likely they are to attend a show, and become buyers. “Our goal is to grow the market,” Klingerman said. “Understanding how things work is part of the effort to grow the market.” Styles and designs Communication methods are The bedroom sets seen here are an excellent example of how the furniture has changed in Ohio’s Amish not the only Country Furniture District. In the background we see a very contemporary platform bed, and in the forethings that have ground is a modern, urban-style bed that is shown in a “character” grade of Walnut. Walnut once was changed. The fur- only used in very formal applications, but like many other species, it has made its way into designs that simply didn’t exist 10 or 20 years ago. 10
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Holmes County Fairgrounds, and the Mt. Hope tomed to commuting. Whether it’s an evening out Event Center, on the grounds of the Mt. Hope Aucfor a nice meal at a restaurant, or simply atrip to tion. Staples, we’re used to the fact that it’s going to be a The two-venue format came about in time for the little bit of a drive. As those things go, this one is Fall 2018 show, and seems to be a good solution pretty east — the two locations are only about 15 — or at least the best one available — to allowing minutes apart, and it’s a scenic drive through the all the vendors to be in fully conditioned spaces. heart of Amish Country. The Harvest Ridge campus is brand new, and very Whether you’re considering attending your first well done, but it simply didn’t have enough space show, or looking forward to renewing old acquainfor everyone to be in an ideal location. tances, the Spring 2019 OHFM promises to be one Klingerman says, “I would be the first one to of the best shows ever. Approximately 135 local admit that I wasn’t sure about the show being in manufacturers are scheduled to exhibit, and, two locations. I think a fair number of people were thanks to the fact that space limitations aren’t a big a bit skeptical or apprehensive at first, but it seems factor any longer, many will be expanding their exto have worked out pretty well. Both are nice facilihibits, meaning more pieces than ever will be on ties, and both venues are new, indoor and climatedisplay. It’s a winning combination, no matter how controlled.” you look at it! The Spring 2019 Ohio Hardwood Furniture MarKlingerman said that absent another solution to ket takes place March 20-21at Harvest Ridge, the demand for space at shows, this is probably the Millersburg andThe Mt. Hope Event Center. Regisbest option. “It would be nice to have 100,000 tration information can be found at: www.ohiosquare feet or more all in one building so that all hardwoodfurnituremarket.com or by calling the vendors could be together, but the reality is 877-643-8824. that’s probably not going to happen anytime soon.” He continued, “This is a resourceful community that works together to find solutions in a collaborative way. This solution is an excellent example of that cooperation and collaboration.” In speaking with members of the local furniture manufacturing community, Klingerman said “Everyone seemed to be happy The Spring 2019 Ohio with how things have worked Hardwood Furniture Market will take place at out.” He attributes that to an two different venues: overall can-do spirit in the com- Harvest Ridge (above), munity and also, perhaps, to the located at the Holmes fact that folks from Ohio’s Amish County Fairgrounds just outside Millersburg, OH, Country are used to travelling and The Mt. Hope Event when the need arises. “I can’t Center (right), on State speak for the attendees, but peo- Rte. 241 in Mt. Hope. ple in this area are very accus16
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>>> Pioneer Woodworking of fers the P.W. 56, 2 Slat Swivel Barstool. A sturdy, stylish barstool that will fit your kitchen island. It features a deep scoop seat, and beveled edge. Shown in Rustic Quarter Sawn White Oak seat in Golden Brown, with the back and base in brown maple Ebony. —See ad on page 47
Spotlight on FEATURED DESIGNS
^^^ The #8516 Loveseat Glider Recliner from Millwood Wholesale combines the beauty of hardwood with the comfort and functionality of motion furniture. Avail able in a variety of woods, fabrics and finishes. — See ad on page 48
<<<The #110 Easel is one of the many children’s items available from VW Woodcraft. This versatile piece features a dry erase board on one side,and a chalkboard on the other side. It’s sure to be a favorite in any playroom! —See ad on page 43
Featuring eyecatching dual wide slats that curve gently, the Stowan Chair from Shady Lawn Oak is the perfect combination of style and function, and pair well with almost any table. — See ad on page 43
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^^^ Ebony Woodworking and “The Live Edge Guy”have a new showroom where you can choose from a wide variety of wood species andmany unique,oneofa kind pieces for Dining, Living and Occasional pieces. —See ad on page 17
<<<The Cheyenne dining set from Dining Solutions by Farmstead Acres combines a classic double pedestal table that shows rounded edges with chairs that feature wide curved slats. The overall look combines traditional and modern styling. —See ad on page 33
^^^ Looking for the wildly popular carts? Look no further than 77 Woodcraft, which offers the “Mill Cart” #MT2448 Coffee model, featuring rustic/character grade wood and authentic heavy metal wheels and brackets —See ad on page 22
<<<The Large Urban Open Entertainment Center from Timberside Woodworking offers a modern interpreta tion of the classic entertain ment center. With its minimalist approach to open shelves and storage this stylish unit is sure to be the center of attention in any space its displayed. The item features 2 towers, five drawers two Mission panel doors and a beveled glass door. —See ad on page 43 For those who require a look of elegance in a bedroom suite we suggest the Park Avenue Collec tion from Meadow Wood Furniture. The case goods feature clean, simple lines on an elevated base, as well as inset drawers, while the headboard/footboard combination showcases a pleasing geometric design and tufted microsuede insets. —See ad on pages 26‐27 Winter 2019 | Expressions in Woodcraft
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Spotlight on FEATURED DESIGNS
^^^ The new Milltown Collection from Dutch Valley Woodcraft is an excellent opportunity for those who want to carry the popular rustic look into an of fice space. Shown in Rustic Brown Maple with a lowsheen finish. — See ad on page 18
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Spotlight on FEATURED DESIGNS
>>>The #9102 Christy II Arm Chair and #9101 Christy II Side Chair from Country Comfort offer the ultimate in comfort, now available with fabric or leather backs. Shown in QSWO and dark Knight FC19093 stain. Our pre ferred samples to use are Buckeye Fabrics. —See ad on page 41
>>> The MidCentury Modern styling is loud and clear on this table from Deer Valley Woodwork‐ ing, but the real twist here is that the tulipshaped base is metal, while the top is wood. —See ad on page 12
This beautiful dining collection is accented by the Liberty Collection Chair from Hillside Chair. Shown in a combination solid color/stain combination on the seat, back and body, this collection combines the best of modern and traditional looks. —See ad on page 42 24
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>>>The Briarwood Savannah Bed is centerpiece to the popu lar Savannah Bedroom Collection, one of two collections that make up Briarwood’s Quick Ship Program. The program ships the complete bedroom set in ten days and offers the com plete collection, all handcrafted in beautiful Brown Maple. See ad on page 23
<<<The Silverton Dining Collection from Emerson Woodcraft is crafted en tirely of reclaimed barn wood. The solidtop plankstyle table is highlighted by large, sturdy legs and the chairs have large, curved slats and a comfortable scooped seat. —See ad on page 23
^^^Shown in a popular twotone finish combination with matching bench, the XBase Double Pedestal table from Hermie’s Table Shop features modern styling cues to give a new inter pretation to a classic planktop design. This model fits with any home decor, and is available in a wide variety of wood and finish choices. — See ad on page 13
^^^The bestselling Galveston Dining Collection from Outdoor Retreat invites you to enjoy simple elegance for a per fect day in a casual environment. — See ad on page 53
^^^ The Liberty Mission Collection from Y&T Woodcraft showcases the timeless beauty of the Craftsman/Mission style. Shown here in stunning Quarter Sawn White Oak, this collection of liv ing/entertainment furniture fits easily in any style of home. —See ad on page 11 Winter 2019 | Expressions in Woodcraft
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Spotlight on FEATURED DESIGNS
<<< The 1050 Tiverton TV stand from Quality Fabrications is made of beautiful reclaimed barnwood, and the 72inch model shown here features three inset drawers, as well as enclosed storage and glass doors for components. Strap hinges and antique style hardware complete he rustic look. —See ad on page 33
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Spotlight on FEATURED DESIGNS
This hardwood panel bed is one of the latest introductions in CVW’s American Modern Bedroom Collection, and joins over 17 other panel and upholstered bed selections. Add six drawer styles and three base options, there are over 250 config urations in case goods. A selection of lighter to darker finishes hand rubbed on the finest Brown Maple make the American Modern Bedroom Collection a showroom must have in 2019! — See ad on page 50
^^^Offering style and function is the #172 Barrel Stave Table from Mt. Eaton Tables. Crafted from repurposed whiskey barrels, the stave legs con tain six holes each, allowing for 24 bottles of storage on a small table. —See ad on page 56 <<<Recently rebranded as “Country Timbers” the former Ruff Sawn pres ents an exciting new piece: the Alexandria Break Front Sideboard, shown in solid wormy maple, in a ‘Cloud White” stain. Style is Transi tional with crown moulding, glass panelled doors with chamfered mul lions. Size: 76”Lx 42”H x 18”D x 21”D 3 Drawer/2 Door —See ad on Back Cover
^^^With Knotty Walnut and clean, contemporary lines the Odessa Bedroom Collection from Miller Bedrooms has just the right feel for any loft or urban setting. The bed features a unique headboard/footboard design that is carried through to the case goods bases, which feature inset drawers and hardware that also mimics the “box” theme seen throughout the collection.—See ad on page 34 Expressions in Woodcraft | Fall 2018 28
Wide, tapered, angled slats and legs that include a unique foot in the front , make the C.E. Plain chairs from Horseshoe Bend Chair a distinctive choice for any dining room. —See ad on page 32
^^^Kidron Woodcraft presents a stunning new product for bedroom organization with the Timberline Wardrobe. Doors that slide on barndoor hardware reveal multiple storage options for clothes, shoes, etc. The rough sawn barnwood look is sure to gain lots of attention on your showroom floor. —See ad on page 3
<<<Fredericksburg Furniture specializes in Murphy Beds, including the Cot tage Hill model, which combines loads of stor age in the matching side units, and includes a hid den compartment (inset) —See ad on page 9
>>>Swivel, rock and
recline in the NP 197 glider series from Miller Cabinet Shop. Available in four wood species, this curvy, comfortable chair beckons you to relax after a long day! —See ad on page 25
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Spotlight on FEATURED DESIGNS
The new Portland Style by Weaver’s Custom Finishing and Wholesale offers a com plete lineup of occasionals including a TV stand. A stylish “X” feature is carried through out the collection, which also has a contrasting twotwo finish. TV Stands come in 3 different sizes with beveled edges and smoked glass in doors. Stan dard hardware: K515SN —See ad on page 19
Spotlight on FEATURED DESIGNS
^^^The Glenwood Dining Table from Sunrise Furniture features breadboard ends on the top, thick anglelegs and stylish metal accents — it’s a bestseller! Shown in rectangle style with light sawn top and edges. —See ad on page 15 >>>Take your table or bench building to a completely new level with these cast aluminum table legs from BH Enterprises. They have a simple yet elegant design that will be sure to compliment any table or bench. —See ad on page 45 ^^^The Mission Swivel Glider (MSPG247SL), made by Buckeye Rockers, is shown in our best selling combination: Quar ter Sawn White Oak with OCS117 As bury stain and Sa loon Texas leather. We use industrial grade bearings for a smoother swivel and glide. —See ad on page 37
<<<Sturdy and stylish! Those are the impressions you’ll get after looking at the Arched Bed from North End Furniture. The headboard, footboard and side rails all feature a gentle curve, but the entire collection is crafted with thick, sturdy oak. For example, the case goods feature 1 inch solid tops and sides. North End also offers some of the for mer Beaver Creek Furniture designs. —See ad on page 14
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<<< The Austin Vine col lection from Nature View Furniture showcases a 48" round table with with 2 leaves on the “Vine Pedestal” base. Shown here in QuarterSawn White Oak in #117 Asbury finish, the table top is a sturdy 1” thick. Pair this table with the Austin Side Chair, and you’ve got a winning combination for any dining space. —See ad on page 9
Spotlight on FEATURED DESIGNS
^^^Countryside Lawn Craft thinks that outdoor relaxation should be as comfortble as possible, so its pubheight swivel bar chairs feature a footrest, slped back and seat and swivls for convenience andcomfort. —See ad on page 52
^^^The Sliding Bookcase from Farmside Wood is at home in any office, home office, library or den — or space where you’d like to showcase items with a touch of tradition and style. Shown here in the beautiful OCS 113 Michaels Cherry and Oak, this piece is a sure winner anywhere you place it. —See ads on pages 23 and 49 <<<The “Farmhouse Style’ is part of the Sound bar TV Stand Series from Integ Wood Products. It features a plank top, sawcut accents and barn doorstyle“X” doors as well as plenty of room for components, DVDs, etc. —See ad on page 27
<<<Want to combine comfort and style? Check out the Stacy chair from Wengerd Wood Products. This model features simple, clean lines, a nicely padded seat and matching upholstry in the back. The result is a more for mal look in a chair that pro vides maximum comfort. —See ad on page 18
^^^With an elegance reminiscent of times gone by, the Georgian Bedroom Set from Troy Lane Furniture features raised panels throughout, bullseye trim accents and stylish bases on the cases. If your bedroom needs a touch of old worldstyle and class, take a look at this set. —See ad on page 50 Winter 2019 | Expressions in Woodcraft
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Spotlight on FEATURED DESIGNS
<<<What could be more relaxing that a nice fire while you enjoy a quiet evening and a movie? Ashery Oak presents a beautiful tra ditionalstyle TV stand that has a plankstyle top and burnished/distrssed features on the edges and doors. It’s the perfect look that also has plenty of room for components and storage. — See ad on page 12
(Below) Looking for big style in small spaces? Ashery Woodworking presents the Cen tury Style Collection, which is designed the be “Apartment size furnishings.” Shown here in the popular OCS 118 Slate stain on beautiful Brown Maple, this collection proves you can have greatlooking furniture no matter what the size of your living space! — See ad on page 56
<<<The Montana Chair from Hickory Lane Woodworking combines comfortable curved slats in the back and a scooped seat with Queen Annestyle front legs to cre ate a chair that is very comfortable as well es ele gant. — See ad on page 19
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>>> Compact, stylish and func tional are how we describe the new Chiller cabinet from Quality Wood Products. Featuring an inset drawer, glass stor age section and stylish straight legs, this piece also has a 12bottle elec tric chiller. It’s a complete wine storage and serving solution. — See ad on page 2
>>>The Arlington Buffet from Brook‐ side Wood Products features flush doors and drawers, rectangle seedy glass doors in top, rectangle reversed panel doors in the base as well as re served panel slides. This stylish, tradi tional buffet/server also has LED lights with atouch switch, successfully combining a timeless look with mod ern features. — See ad on page 49
^^^Urban Barnwood presents the Kowan Dining Collection, which features a twotone finish on reclaimed barnwood. The chair backs and bases and the table base are shown in a distressed/ whitewash style finish while the table top and seats have a natural look. —See ad on page 62
Spotlight on FEATURED DESIGNS
<<<Oakland Wood offers an exciting option to blend con temporary and traditional looks in the “Eagle” dining chair with wrought iron option. The single wide, curved slat in the center is accented on either side by curved wrought iron. The look is especially effective when paired with a table that features a metal base. — See ad on page 37
^^^Twin Oaks Barns offers ornamental lighthouses in eight different sizes, ranging from 18” tall to 10 feet tall! Twin Oaks Barns, LLC was the first manufacturer and original designer of these popular lawn or naments. Offered in 26 different wooden color/paint style combinations, as well as Poly vinyl options. —See ad on page 54
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Below is a list of Expressions in Woodcraft advertisers who will be part of the Spring 2019 Ohio Hardwood Furniture Market. On page 59 you will find a map and addresses for both show venues. Company Name
Location
Booths
Briarwood Beds Brookside Wood Products Buckeye Rockers Country View Woodworking Countryside Lawncraft Deer Valley Woodworking Ebony Woodworking Farmside Wood Hermie's Table Shop Horseshoe Bend Chair INTEG Wood Products Kidron Woodcraft Meadow Wood Miller Bedrooms Packship USA Quality Wood Products R.T. Wood Products Schlabach Country Timbers Shady Hill Holz Sterling Transfer Urban Barnwood Furniture V&W Woodcraft Wengerd Wood Products Wildwood Designs Y&T Woodcraft 77 Woodcraft Ashery Oak Country Comfort Woodworking Country View Oak Hickory Lane Woodworking Hillside Chair Mt. Eaton Table Nature View Furniture Oakland Wood Sunrise Furniture Troy Lane Woodcraft Weaver's Custom Finishing & Wholesale
Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Harvest Ridge Mt. Hope Event Center Mt. Hope Event Center Mt. Hope Event Center Mt. Hope Event Center Mt. Hope Event Center Mt. Hope Event Center Mt. Hope Event Center Mt. Hope Event Center Mt. Hope Event Center Mt. Hope Event Center Mt. Hope Event Center Mt. Hope Event Center
449, 450, 451, 457, 458, 459 302, 303, 304, 305 455, 456, 463, 464 230, 231, 232, 233, 241, 242, 243, 244 769, 770 726, 727, 728, 729, 730, 731 210, 211, 221, 222 637, 638, 639 640, 641, 642, 643, 644 766, 767, 768 108, 109, 110 620, 621, 622, 623, 624, 625 630, 631 406, 407, 408, 414, 415, 416 758 741, 742, 761, 762 933 465, 466, 467, 468, 469, 470 433, 441 750 201, 202, 203, 204, 212, 213, 214, 215 216, 217, 218 437, 438, 439, 440, 445, 446, 447, 448 647, 646 245, 246, 247, 248, 256, 257, 258, 259 1201, 1202, 1203 901, 902, 903, 911, 912, 913 1204, 1205 974, 975, 976, 983, 984, 985 938, 939, 940, 941, 947, 948, 949, 950 1148, 1149, 1150, 1157, 1158, 1159 1143, 1144, 1145, 1152, 1153 945, 946, 954, 955 1012, 1013, 1014, 1026, 1027, 1028 1105, 1106, 1111, 1112 951, 952 1004, 1005, 1006, 1007, 1008, 1009
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here is a school of thought that says, quality always sells. You’ll never go wrong selling the best. There’s little doubt that this is true with Amish-built furniture. In fact, it can easily be argued that the Amish “brand,” if you will, was built on quality. By default, the Amish have built a brand that would be the envy of any Fortune 500 company. Why? The reason is twofold: First, Amish-built furniture has become synonymous with quality. That in itself is a major accomplishment. And next, because the brand evolved with very little money being spent to build it. In other words, the brand was built by letting the product speak for itself. Billions of dollars are spent every year to build and support branding, whether it’s large corporations or smaller endeavors. Consider, for example, marketing co-ops.Many people don’t realize it, but, the Sunkist brand is actually a network – a co-op – of growers who market their product under one label. When a shopper chooses Sunkist it’s mostly because they recognize the name, and equate it with quality. Although the Amish themselves do not use the word “Amish” in their marketing, others do, and now it has become synonymous with high-quality goods. Given all that, and the fact that consumers equate “Amish” with “quality” how can that be used to support retail sales? There are several areas that come into play, but perhaps the first – maybe only – hurdle retailers must overcome is price. But research consistently shows that given the choice, most consumers will almost always choose quality over price. Even if consumers have a set budget in mind, they often will exceed that budget if they can justify it. One way to justify spending more, is simply buying the best product for the money. When it comes down to a side-by-side comparison, consumers will most often choose a higher value for their money, even if they have to spend more. Where Amish-built furniture is concerned, salespeople have a number of powerful tools to work with. First, there is the raw material itself: Wood. Solid
wood that is. Solid Hardwoods. It may sound odd, to those of us in the industry, but the vast majority of consumers really don’t understand “solid” wood, and even fewer understand the durable value of hardwoods such as Oak, Cherry, Maple, etc. So, the first point of price justification is that Amishbuilt furniture is not only solid wood (as opposed to veneer-covered compressed particle board), but it’s also a very durable hardwood. We’ve talked a lot about Millennials in this publication, but this point alone may be enough to sway some of them. Younger people who are just settling into their first home, are what we would consider entry-level buyers of higher-quality furniture. There comes a time when people reach an age where they stop shopping on price alone, and start to consider value. Millennials now occupy all of the 18-34demographic group, and the leading edge is pushing 40, which puts many Millenials in their “power buying” years. And, lest we forget, Millennials are the largest demographic group in US history. A fewyears ago researcher Jacob Davidson observeded, "By 2017, Millennials will have more buying power than any other generation" that preceded them. We’re now in 2019 and no one is claiming otherwise.
Quality is King:
Selling Amish-built furniture is a process of education
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USA Made Next on the list would probably be the “Made in America” factor. There is a volume of recent research that supports the notion that consumers began suffering from “import fatigue,” almost 10 years ago, and are willing to pay more if they know they are supporting American-made businesses and jobs. You might think this resonates more with people over 40 or 45, but it’s a positive factor no matter what the shopper’s age. For younger buyers, Made In America equates to supporting small businesses, something they are keenly in tune with. One only need point to the success (and impact of) crowdfunding companies such as Kickstarter to see just how much younger demographics are willing to
support small businesses. When you buy Amish-built furniture you are supporting small, family-owned, community-based businesses. Small business ownership is on the rise, and well-respected in the USA, and many consumers purposely make purchasing decisions they know will support a small business. Most people (especially Millennials) are not particularly fond of Big Box stores and imported products, and the idea of a high-quality, durable product that is made in the USA by a small business has a huge appeal. This is where Amish-built furniture begins to make sense, and really stands out above other choices. The Sustainability factor There is some debate as to just how much sustainability or renewable resource factors affect furniturebuying decisions.Is it a big deal when it comes to furniture purchases? Most of the data we’ve looked at says no. But evenif it is, not to worry. Amish-built furniture is very sustainable. The youngest American generations are definitely being raised with a “reduce, reuse, recycle” mentality, but it’s very easy to explain to them that Amish-built furniture comes from a highly renewable resource: trees; and from woodlots that are well managed. Landowners know that a well-managed woodlot can be harvested every 10 to 20 years. Most don’t risk longterm financial benefits for one-time rewards. Not only that, but USA-harvested lumber supports more American jobs, reduces foreign imports and the massive amounts of fuel (and emissions) related to imported wood products. It also is worth mentioning that, unfortunately woodlot sustainability simply isn’t a factor in some overseas countries. As you’re working with consumers, consider this: In the end, it actually is the consumer who gets the most benefit from Amish-built furniture. We recently spoke with a wood shop owner who made the point very clearly. He said, “The shop that builds it gets a one-time benefit — maybe a day’s profits. The same thing is true for the store that sells it. They receive a short-term benefit in the form of a sale. But the consumer receives a lifetime benefit because they have a piece of furniture that is going to last a lifetime – or longer.” These are points that can be made early and often in the sales process. It’s probably good to keep in mind that, unless they are responding to a particular advertisement or sale, the vast majority of people will make
several stops and comparison shop before they make a purchase decision. A good salesperson can change that, but sales ability backed up with the right information is a recipe for success. Make it your own Customization also is huge, and once consumers understand it, its importance cannot be overstated. Amishbuilt furniture is not, “one size fits all.” In a world that is inundated with large, national retailers, consumers react very positively when they understand that they get to make choices about wood species, stains, colors, hardware and even the size of a particular piece. Customization on this level is something that competitors just can’t match. It may take some work to get customers to understand the level of choices available to them, but once “the light goes on,” and consumers begin to embrace the “bragging rights” factor that this piece was made exclusively for them, the process definitely gets easier. Customization truly is the real key to turning prospects into customers. Consumers are used to accepting a limited range of choices, whether it’s fabric choices on upholstered furniture or different styles of wood furniture, but nothing can match the level of customization with Amish-built furniture. It’s not even a debatable point. When you add in what marketers refer to as “bragging rights,” it strengthens the opportunity to close a sale even more. Example: A dining suite is most often the first set nice furniture people purchase. Why? Because it’s something that people’s guests will see, and experience. The owners then get to tell the story about how the set was made exclusively for them. Everyone ants to feel special, and this is an easy way to accomplish it. Marketers often talk about the concept of features vs. benefits. The information we’ve outlined here definitely fall under the “benefits” category. When you use these as sales tools, we’re hopeful you can convert more of the visitors to your store to buyers.
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Photos. Catalogues. Price Lists. FREE instant, 24-hour access to everything you need for dozens of furniture manufacturers. www.FurnitureBuilders.org A service of Expressions In Woodcraft Magazine
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Special Outdoor Living Advertising Section Editor’s note: Like our last issue, this issue of Expressions In Woodcraft is being mailed to an additional 2500 retailers that specialize in outdoor products. We’re repeating this article to help introduce these new readers to these product offerings. ost of our time at Expressions In Woodcraft is spent talking about solid wood furniture crafted from North American hardwoods. But as the late, great Paul Harvey used to say, stay tuned for “the rest of the story.” The fact is, our region also is home to a large and growing number of furniture manufacturrers who build outdoor furniture. In recent years those manufacturers have largely embraced poly lumber. Many of those manufacturers got their start before poly lumber was available, and have now switched over to using this now-widely available material. Just like we say about our solid wood furniture, poly lumber has an excellent story to tell: Poly lumber is made from highdensity polyethylene (HDPE), from materials that are almost completely derived from post-consumer content. Translation: Poly furniture is “green.” It contains an astounding 90 percent post-consumer content. Poly lumber is made from materials that otherwise might end up in landfills. (The plastics bearing a “2” symbol are
M
used to make HDPE lumber.) From a consumer standpoint, some of the most attractive features are: • Poly lumber is mold, mildew and rot-resistant. Poly lumber will not fade, crack or splinter. Products made from poly lumber require no special maintenance and normally will easily clean with soap and water.
•Colors are UV-stabilized, so they resist fading. Marketing research tells us that younger consumers are much more environmentally aware than their older counterparts and, for example, are far more likely to recycle and to look for products that are green or sustainably manufactured. Poly lumber products fit this bill well, becasue they keep many thousands of plastic jugs from entering the waste stream. In fact, the average Adirondack-style chair is made from approx. 375 milk jugs. These products are available in a wide variety of products and styles, and (as you’ll se in the following pages) most recently bold, bright colors have been added to the choices. In terms of consumer education,
poly lumber furniture is not to be confused with injection-molded plastic furniture. Those pieces (which we believe were first built and marketed by Newell-Rubbermaid) became extremely popular in a very short time when they entered the market approx. 25 years ago. But that’s not at all what we’re talking about here. HDPE lumber is a dimensional product that is cut and fitted into place rather than injection molded as part of a manufacturing process. Even today, some manufacturers have “upgraded” injection-molded products to look more like poly lumber, but don’t be fooled. True poly lumber products will definitely cost more than knock-off products, but they are far more durable (and comfortable), and will last for many years to come. “Real” wood outdoor furniture absolutely still is available from craftsmen here in Ohio’s Amish Country Furniture District. And so are storage barns. For those who insist on the look and feel of real wood, we’ve got you covered there as well! Quality materials, expert craftsmanship and a commitment to customer satisfaction are the hallmarks of doing business here in Ohio’s Amish Country. If you currently sell, or are considering adding, outdoor living products, we encourage you to take special note of the following pages.
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Red hot Reclaimed Barnwood, other rustic/reclaimed options continue to be strong sellers Trends are trends and fads are fads — understanding the difference in the two can be a major factor in marketing. Recognizing and capitalizing on a trend can be a most masterful stroke. But, converesely, jumping on the bandwagon of a fad can be a recipe for disaster. What’s the difference? A trend is something that starts slowly but continues to grow in popularity to the point where it seems ubiquitous. A fad, though a something that explodes in popularity but disappeasr almost as (Above) Examples of Live quickly as it began. Edge options on display As Expressions In at Ebony Woodworking. Woodcraft monitors the (Right) The Stonehouse Amish-built furniture in- Dining Collection from Urban Barnwood comdustry wehave noted bines a popular gray-tone finish on reclaimed Barnmostly trends. One of wood. those was a phenomenon we labeled “The Rise Of Rustics” in a previous issue. We’retaking the time her eto report that reclaimed/rustic wood species show no signs of waning popularity. In fact, quite th eopposite sems to be true. We first began seeing Live Edge wood severql years ago, and it is as popular as ever. Many Live Edge pieces aremade from wood that undoubtedly would have been discarded or burned just a few years ago. Now, these same pieces of wood are being used to create stunning, unique furniture that
consumers can’t seem to get enough of. Consider live edge to be the “king of the character grades’ of wood. It hasn’t been that long ago that furniture builders wouldn’t use anything but top grade lumber. But that has changed...dramatically. Character grades of lumber not only show the “distressed” looks that are so popular right now, but often receive additional distressed features such as showing saw cuts. Reclaimed barnwood probably can best be described as preserving what otherwise would have been lost. Old Pioneer-era barns are very expensive to preserbe and maintain, and the sad fact is that we are losing them in large numbers. Preserving as much of the wood as possible and transforming it into beautiful furniture is, perhaps, an important way of preserving our ancestors’ heritage and honoring their efforts in building these incredible structures. Barnwood furniture is heavy, durable and is perhaps the ultimate in recycling. Both r
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INDEX Of Advertisers
Business Name Address City State 77 Woodcraft 6745 CR 77 Millersburg OH A&L Furniture 8286 St. Rte. 241 Fredericksburg OH AnnDrew Enterprises 3470-B St. Rte 39 Millersburg OH Ashery Oak 8959 TR 652 Fredericksburg OH Ashery Woodworking 9247 SR 241 Fredericksburg OH Backyard Designs 6061 CR 68 Millersburg OH BH Enterprises, LLC 8559 Bear Hollow Rd. Apple Creek OH Briarwood 8444 TR 652 Millersburg OH Brookside Wood Products 11212 Ely Rd. Orrville OH Buckeye Rockers 2714 TR 151 Millersburg OH Clearview Wood 7550 TR 652 Millersburg OH Country Comfort Woodworking 10683 Massillon Rd. Fredericksburg OH Country Timbers 8261 Wincklepleck Rd. Dundee OH Country View Woodworking 777 CR 241 Millersburg OH Countryside Lawn Craft 6190 TR 14 Mt. Gilead OH Deer Valley Woodworking 32441 CR 12 Fresno OH Dining Solutions By Farmstead Acres 9106 CR 201 Fredericksburg OH Dutch Valley Woodcraft 5833 TR 610 Fredericksburg OH Ebony Woodworking 6470 TR 603 Millersburg OH Emerson Woodcraft 11604 Emerson Rd. Apple Creek OH Farmerstown Upholstered Furniture 2791 TR 181 Baltic OH Farmside Wood 11833 Harrison Rd Apple Creek OH Fredericksburg Finishing 8600 CR 201 Fredericksburg OH Fredericksburg Furniture 3636 Harrison Rd Fredericksburg OH Hermies Table Shop 8977 TR 652 Fredericksburg OH Hickory Lane Woodworking 5884 TR 608 Fredericksburg OH Hidden Hollow Wood and Upholstery9165 TR 656 Fredericksburg OH Hillside Chair LLC 8413 TR 652 Millersburg OH Horseshoe Bend Chair 1009 S. Carr Rd. Orrville OH Integ Wood Products 8210 CR 245 Holmesville OH JS Lawn Furniture 3876 CR 168 Millersburg OH Kidron Woodcraft 5373 S. Kansas Rd. Apple Creek OH Meadow Wood Furniture 6110 S. Kansas Rd. Apple Creek OH Miller Bedroom 7000 TR 652 Millersburg OH Miller Cabinet Shop 9111 TR 659 Dundee OH Millwood Wholesale 7969 TR 662 Dundee OH Mt. Eaton Tables 9628 Massillon Rd Dundee OH Nature View Furniture 10675 Mt. Hope Rd Fredericksburg OH Northend Woodcraft 208 N. Carr Rd Orrville OH Oakland Wood, Ltd. 4842 TR. 613 Fredericksburg OH Outdoor Retreat LLC 7795 Frease Rd Fredericksburg OH Packship 1347 N. Main Street Orrville OH Pioneer Woodworking, LLC 9210 SR 241 Fredericksburg OH Quality Fabrications 7108 TR 569 Fredericksburg OH Quality Wood Products 543 SR 95 Loudonville OH RT Wood Products 13070 Nisley Rd Fredericksburg OH Shady Hill Holz 2543 TR 121 Millersburg OH Shady Lawn Oak 6274 CR 77 Millersburg OH Sterling Transfer 6091 CR 207 Millersburg OH Sunrise Furniture 12597 Harrison Rd. Apple Creek OH Timberside Woodworking 2853 CR 200 Dundee OH Troy Lane Woodcraft 4229 E. Messner rd. Wooster OH Twin Oaks Barns 3337 US Rte. 62 Dundee OH Urban Barnwood Furniture 2273 TR 406 Sugarcreek OH VW Woodcraft 5071 TR 353 Millersburg OH Weaver Playsets 5854 CR 201 Millersburg OH Weaver's Custom Finishing & Wholesale 10652 S. Apple Creek Rd. Fredericksburg OH Wengerd Wood Products 8618 CR 201 Fredericksburg OH Wildwood Design 5262 Leihley Rd. Sugarcreek OH Y&T Woodcraft 10861 Laughtenschlager Rd. Apple Creek OH
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ZIP 44654 44627 44654 44627 44627 44654 44606 44654 44667 44654 44654 44627 44624 44654 43338 43824 44627 44627 44654 44606 43804 44606 44627 44627 44627 44627 44654 44654 44667 44633 44654 44606 44606 44654 44624 44624 44624 44627 44667 44627 44627 44667 44627 44627 44842 44627 44654 44654 44654 44606 44624 44691 44624 44681 44654 44654 44627 44627 44681 44606
Phone 330-893-2707 330-674-5725 330-893-4280 NA NA 330-674-3841 330-641-4175 330-359-5161 330-749-3758 330-893-3929 NA NA 877-829-4507 330-674-2405 NA 740-622-1386 NA 330-698-3200 330-279-2102 NA 330-897-1423 330-695-5100 330-473-3216 330-695-5605 NA NA NA 330-359-5991 NA 330-279-9046 330-893-9512 330-698-5504 NA 330-359-6351 330-359-0151 330-359-6109 NA NA NA NA NA 330-684-0057 NA 330-695-2478 419-368-3165 NA 330-893-3506 NA 330-674-0954 NA NA NA 330-893-3126 330-893-1322 330-674-0073 330-893-0800 330-695-2494 330-439-3565 330-852-9310 330-464-3432
Fax Ad on page Map Spotter 330-698-3200 22 1 330-674-0341 22 2 330-893-4281 48 3 330-682-0740 12 4 330-698-3200 56 5 330-674-3842 55 6 NA 45 7 330-359-0457 63 8 330-682-8732 49 9 330-893-2772 37 10 NA 26 11 330-698-3200 41 12 877-838-2917 64 45 330-674-1391 50 13 NA 52 NA 330-698-3200 12 14 330-695-2189 33 15 330-674-2462 18 16 844-415-1713 17 17 330-698-3200 23 18 NA 22 19 330-695-2027 23, 49 20 NA 52 21 330-695-5610 9 22 330-682-0740 13 23 330-682-0740 19 24 330-698-3200 36 25 330-359-5997 42 26 330-698-3200 32 27 330-279-2300 27 28 NA 52 29 330-698-3200 3 30 330-698-3200 26, 27 31 330-359-0823 34 32 330-359-2080 27 33 330-359-6208 48 34 330-698-3200 56 35 330-698-3200 9 36 NA 14 37 330-698-3200 37 38 888-371-4108 53 39 330-682-7447 11 40 330-698-3200 47 41 330-473-1359 33 42 419-368-3166 2 43 NA 36 44 330-893-1614 26 46 NA 14 47 330-674-0949 26 48 330-698-3200 15 49 330-403-4479 43 50 330-695-2189 50 51 330-893-2499 54 52 330-893-4139 62 53 330-674-1730 43 54 330-893-0810 54 55 330-698-3200 19 56 NA 18 57 330-852-0832 54 58 330-828-0886 11 59
Regional Map <<< Opposite is an advertiser index, along with address, contact info and a map spotter. Use the Wayne County map below and the Holmes County map on the following pages to locate the furniture producers of your choice. Most will welcome drop-in visitors! At right is a closeup of the location for the upcoming Ohio Hardwood Furniture Market, which will be held at TWO locations: Harvest Ridge, 8990 Township 301, Millersburg, OH 44654, and the Mt. Hope Event Center, 8076 St. Rte.241, Millersburg, OH 44654
Mt. Hope OH (Mt. Hope Event Center)
Millersburg OH (Harvest Ridge)
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