opinions on unfinished furniture stores

[ebarr]

Due to some unfortunate turn of events. I am looking for some bedroom furniture for myself and a daughter. I have picked up some things from craigslist. But still need some dressers and odd and ends. I wanted to check out a CJ Woodmasters or someplace similar.

Any one got opinions on this stuff?

[Keye]

I have some pieces that I bought over 30 years ago. They met a need at the time. You probably have more finishing knowledge than most buyers so your results should add a lot of value.

Just realized the computer desk I am sitting before is from just such a store.

Just as a thought, my youngest son furnished his first apartment from good will and I was amazed at some of what he bought and its quality. My oldest son did amazingly well at garage sales.

Don't know your situation but to answer your question, realize just what it is you are buying and that you are meeting a need. If I had the need I would not hesitate to shop at one of these stores.

[sapwood]

Wayne,
I visited unfinished furniture stores many times. The quality of wood they use decreased with every visit. I'm sure there are exceptions, but CJ Woodmaster's furniture has more knots than wood now . . . if you can find one. One near me lasted about 2-3 years before closing last year.

MTCW,
Roger

[Bas]

Many years ago, I bought some bookcases, dresser and nightstands from a place in Durham that sold unfinished furniture, near Brightleaf Square. Not sure what the name of the place is (or was!).

The quality is pretty good, it has held up well and I can't see any major flaws in the construction. Remember that finishing is half the work. No idea how much quality has changed in the last 8-10 years though.

[Glennbear]

As woodworkers we have a natural abhorrence to the particle board /plastic covered knockdown stuff sold in Wal-Mart etc . but I am currently using some dressers, nightstands etc until I can build the real stuff. I had quite a bit of it in NJ and it served me well for a number of years. Just my 2 cents worth (counting cents was how I ended up with this style in the first place )

[Rod]

I think that the unfinished stores serve a need. I wouldn't build my furninture the way they do. But at the same time, I still have an armoire in my living room that we bought and finished 6 years ago. It's oak and is fine with me.

What you will buy there isn't heirloom stuff. On the other hand, I believe that you can talk them down substantially from the prices they ask which can make it a good deal no matter what. I have gone in and offered 50% of the asking price and walked away at somewhere around 70% I think. I got a call the next day from the sales guy wanting to "work it out" but by then I had found something at the flea market. With the market the way it is, I wouldn't doubt that you could talk them down below invoice on certain pieces.

Good Luck!!!!
Rod

[Tom Dunn]

I'd MUCH prefer to apply a finish to a piece of furniture than to remove-refinish it!!!!! Paint especially......

[FredP]

dont know what your situation is but my son left some stuff here a year or more ago and its taking up room in my shed that I could use. he said he didnt want it. there is I believe a dresser with mirror and 2 night stands. there may be another dresser but I realy dont remember. as far as i know its in good shape. may need to glue a drawer front or two and could possibly refinish [spelled paint!] at least thats what i would do. its solid pine constuction. I would be willing to make ya a great deal! meaning you buy the gas to come get it and help me dig it out!!! PM me if you are interested.

fred

[Travis Porter]

The CJ woodmaster stuff isn't bad, but beware. My parents ordered a kids rocking chair from the store in Raleigh and it closed. The Durham store didn't want to honor the order. The stuff isn't bad and is made pretty well. Just be sure to pick it up when you pay for it.