Custom Table Process

Ordering a custom table can be an exciting process. Whether you already know exactly what you want or you’re simply exploring ideas, we aim to make the experience clear, collaborative and enjoyable from start to finish. Below is an overview of how the process usually works, from your first research through to receiving your finished table.

Finding the Right Starting Point

The process usually begins when you decide you would like a new table made and start exploring your options. At this stage, some customers arrive with a very specific idea in mind – a particular style, size or material. Others are simply looking for inspiration and want to see what is possible.

There are two main ways to begin…

Starting from one of our designs

Many customers begin by browsing the Tablemaker range to see if one of our designs appeals to them. If you find a design that you like, it can serve as the foundation for your table.

It’s important to know that our designs are highly customisable. If you like the overall look but certain details don’t quite suit your space, there are often many ways to adjust them. For example, you may wish to change the size of the table, choose a different finish, alter the colour of the legs, or select a different edge profile for the tabletop.

Once you have chosen a design to work from, you can complete the customisation form on the product page or submit a message through our general contact form. Simply reference the table you like and explain the changes you would like to make.

Requesting a completely bespoke table

If none of our existing designs matches what you are looking for, you can request a fully bespoke table.

In this case we will need some guidance about the style you have in mind. The easiest way to communicate this is by uploading a sketch, photo reference or inspiration image through our contact page. Even a rough sketch can be extremely helpful.

If you are unsure where to begin, our custom projects gallery is also a useful place to browse. It showcases many of the unique tables we have made for previous customers and may help spark ideas for your own project.

Discussing Your Requirements

Once we receive your enquiry, we will get back to you as soon as possible to discuss the details of your table.

If your enquiry relates to one of our existing designs, the process is usually quite straightforward. We will review the customisations you have requested and confirm whether they are technically viable. If they are, we will provide a cost estimate and an approximate timescale for making the table. If something is not feasible, we will explain why and suggest the closest alternative solution.

For completely bespoke designs or unusual materials, we will assess whether the project is something we can undertake and provide an estimate of both cost and lead time.

This stage of the process can take place in whichever way suits you best. Many conversations happen over email, but we are equally happy to discuss projects by telephone or in person. Sometimes a combination of methods works best. Our aim is simply to be responsive and helpful as we collaborate with you to develop the design.

Finalising the Specification

Once the general look and feel of the table has been agreed, we move on to finalising the finer details.

This stage often involves working through practical considerations to ensure the table works perfectly in your space. For example, we may check that there is sufficient spacing between the table legs to comfortably accommodate the number of chairs you plan to use.

Colour and finish selections are also commonly confirmed at this stage. If needed, we can send samples so you can see the finishes in person before making a final decision. Our standard finishes can be ordered online, but if a non-standard colour or custom finish is required we may either request a small payment upfront to cover the cost of producing samples or include this cost within the overall project.

For more complex or completely bespoke designs, we may also agree that a CAD (computer-aided design) drawing would be helpful. These drawings allow you to visualise the proportions and details of the table before production begins. As with samples, the cost for this work may be paid upfront or included in the final project cost by agreement.

Once everything has been agreed, the final specification is written into an invoice. At this point we request payment before work begins. For a small furniture workshop, this approach allows us to cover the cost of materials and labour while ensuring each project runs smoothly.

For particularly large projects we may agree on a staged payment structure, with a deposit paid upfront and the balance due upon completion but prior to delivery. If you ever have questions about payments, we are always happy to discuss them.

Making the Table

This is the most rewarding stage of the project — when your table is actually made.

We build the table according to the agreed specification and will keep you informed of progress along the way. Customers often ask how long it takes to make a table, and the answer depends mainly on three factors.

Material availability can sometimes affect timelines. If we already have suitable oak in stock, we can begin sooner. If new material needs to be ordered, we will depend on supplier lead times.

Design complexity is another important factor. When building one of our established designs we already have the necessary templates, measurements and processes ready. A completely new design may require additional experimentation, prototype work or new tooling, which can add time to the project.

Finally, our current workload plays a role. We generally operate on a first-come, first-served basis. During busy periods there may be a short queue before we can begin work, while quieter periods allow us to start sooner.

In most cases we aim to complete tables within a few weeks of receiving an order. Like most customers, we prefer not to wait months for furniture, and we try to keep our turnaround times as reasonable as possible.

Delivery or Collection

When your table is complete, we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection.

All of our deliveries are carried out by van courier. For customers in the London area this is typically done by a trusted independent driver who is experienced in handling our furniture. In many cases the table will travel without extensive packaging because the drivers handle it carefully throughout the journey. This helps reduce both costs and unnecessary packaging waste.

For deliveries elsewhere on the UK mainland, we use reliable nationwide van courier services.

You are also very welcome to collect your table directly from our workshop at no cost, or arrange your own courier if you prefer. Full details can always be found on our delivery and collection page.

After Your Table Arrives

Once your table has arrived, we will check in to make sure everything has been received safely and that you are completely happy with it.

We will also provide advice on how to care for and maintain the table so it continues to look its best for many years. If you have any questions at all, we are always pleased to help.

Creating a custom table is a collaborative process, and it’s always a pleasure to see a design move from an initial idea to a finished piece of furniture in your home or workplace.

Contact Us

To ask anything about our custom table process, get in touch – we will be pleased to discuss your project.