FAQ
At The Nature of Things, we have a passion for crafting exquisite, one-of-a-kind, handcrafted natural wood furniture. Our greatest joy comes from creating unique treasures that not only add a touch of beauty to your living spaces but also bring nature into your home. We're all about transparency and want to ensure you have all the essential information you need. That's why we've taken the time to answer the most frequently asked questions about our policies and processes. Feel free to explore and discover more about our business and our craft!
Why can’t I purchase online?
Every one of our pieces are truly one-of-a-kind - size, shape, weight, and more. Setting standard shipping rates for such unique items is nearly impossible. Whether you’re interested in a custom piece or a product listed in our online store, we want to provide you with personalized assistance. Please fill out our contact form or call us at (608) 627-1952 to explore your options and make an informed decision about our handcrafted furniture. Our website allows you to get a feel for our shop and to learn about our products and services before visiting our showroom.
Do you do custom orders and designs?
Through the decades, we've worked with many home owners and interior designers to collaborate on custom designs. Please contact us if you have an idea that you would like us to work on. All custom orders require a 50% deposit and are non-returnable.
You can view some previous custom designs over in our Gallery.
Why aren’t the items featured in your gallery available for purchase?
The gallery serves as inspiration for custom orders as well as to showcase some of the more unique pieces we’ve made over the years. Some designs may be able to be replicated while others are truly one-of-a-kind.
Where can I find your stuff to see in person?
Over the years, we have worked with a number of shops and art galleries throughout the United States. We have chosen to scale back on the number of businesses we work with to focus more on our one-of-a-kind creations and custom pieces. You’re welcome to visit us at our workshop, or art studio, to preview a finished piece or a piece in production. We prefer that you schedule an appointment so that we can make sure to be available to assist you. Please use our contact form or call us for availability.
You can also find some of our finished product at Viva Gallery - 217 South Main Street, Viroqua, Wisconsin (608-637-6918).
What types of wood (and finish) do you use?
We use only real, solid hardwoods and we source our wood as locally and as sustainably as possible (read more here). We commonly offer these solid wood species: Walnut, Hard Maple, Birch, Willow, Beech, Oak, Cherry, Ash, Reclaimed Barnwood (Oak), and Soft Maple and the occasional Manzanita.
Policies
Shipping
All sales directly from the website will be shipped within 4 business days. (Please call to order. The payment processor doesn’t work. Sorry for the inconvenience!). Custom order timelines will be discussed with the customer at time of order to meet your specific requirements. We custom box each item at no extra charge. You will only be charged for the shipping cost. For cost effectiveness and dependent on size, we ship frames using USPS or UPS, with larger pieces shipped via DHL.
Returns
The pieces you see on our shopping page are ready and available for shipping to you. Each piece is an original and cannot be duplicated.
All online sales are final.
You have 24 hours to cancel on a purchase of $25 or more, for full refund.
Custom Orders are non-returnable unless damaged during shipping. Upon delivery, please inspect the package before the shipper leaves. If the package is damaged, refuse shipment until you open the box and inspect the piece. If there is any damage to the piece, return the package with the shipper. Your money will be credited back to your account.
We reserve the right to not accept a return for items that have been visibly tampered with. By making a purchase with us, you agree to these terms.
Feel free to call with questions or concerns regarding your order and discuss your specific needs.
Care and Maintenance
At The Nature of Things, we draw upon the natural beauty of the raw materials and capturing the true essence of nature by using live edge wood slabs, burls, and other unique pieces carefully selected for their natural grains and rich colors. To ensure the timeless charm and durability of the furniture, we apply a durable polyurethane finish. (Read more here: Quality)
While our furniture is treated with UV protectants and quality wood finishes, it's essential to be mindful of the wood's natural reaction to its environment. Limit exposure to excessive sunlight, moisture, heat, and dry air to preserve the wood's integrity. For this reason, we recommend keeping our furniture indoors and not leaving it outdoors.
For daily cleaning, wipe the furniture clean with a damp cloth, using mild soap or a natural cleaner if needed, and follow up with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture.
Moisture is the primary threat to real wood furniture, so promptly wipe up any spills, especially pooling liquids, to keep your table dry.
Protect your furniture from heat and moisture by using coasters, trivets, and hot pads, which go a long way in preserving the beauty of solid wood.
Avoid using harsh cleaning products with chemicals or abrasives. Instead, opt for mild, natural soaps for gentle cleaning.
To prevent scratches, avoid direct contact with sharp or rough objects. Utilize felt pads and placemats as protective measures.
By understanding how natural wood reacts to its environment and following these care guidelines, your furniture will last for generations, enriching your living spaces with the beauty of nature.