Category Archives: Custom Concepts

everything you need to know about buying custom

Steampunk Chic and Custom Designs

Posted on December 30, 2011 by Pedro| Leave a comment
Antique Laptop Desk by Orwa Designs at CustomMade.com

In a previous blog on custom jewelry that re-imagines tools and technology, we showcased some pieces that reflected the subcultural phenomenon of “steampunk”, which began as a science fiction genre that explored the idea of a world in which 19th … Continue reading →

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Let’s Talk Treen

Posted on December 16, 2011 by Pedro| Leave a comment
Turned and Hand-Carved Walnut Bowl by K. M. Davis Woodcarving at CustomMade.com

No, it’s not a child developmental stage that comes before tween, but its boundaries, too, can be a little nebulous. Treen is an archaic word used mostly, appropriately enough, in the world of antiques to describe objects made from a … Continue reading →

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Cleanse Your Color Palette, Find Your Higher Design Truth

Posted on December 2, 2011 by Pedro| Leave a comment
The Shapson Tall Case Clock by ClearLake Furniture at CustomMade.com

Ready to settle tough color design calls with the flip of a coin? Writer and design consultant Sara Ruffin Costello has found that decorators are creating “pale rooms, sucked free of distracting reds, blues, and yellows” and embracing a palette … Continue reading →

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What is Modern Style?

Posted on November 18, 2011 by Pedro| 2 Comments
Cubist Cabinets and Modern Kitchen by Ron Corl Design, Ltd., at CustomMade.com

To take a shot at defining modernism and modern style, I’ll start by referring to an old joke and an old quote. The joke: “I love looking at fashion magazines.  I can see what I’ll be wearing in 20 years.” … Continue reading →

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The Art of Displaying Art: Some Custom Approaches

Posted on November 4, 2011 by Pedro| 1 Comment
Art Catalog as Art Object, Iron and Stainless Steel Picture Frame by Brian Hughes Artist Blacksmith at CustomMade.com

If you’re collecting art for your home, you should be as mindful of displaying your pieces as you are about selecting them.  Nicholas H.J. Hall, international director of Old Master paintings and British Art at Christie’s, offers some advice for … Continue reading →

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“The Cutting of a Sapphire” – A Gem Cutting Tutorial

Posted on October 29, 2011 by Pedro| 1 Comment
CutRock

Exquisitely cut gemstones are so often centerpieces in custom jewelry design.  Have you ever wondered how artisan jewelers are able to work their magic so precisely on these challenging materials? Daniel Stair of Custom Gemstones has graciously allowed CustomMade to … Continue reading →

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What is Casework?

Posted on October 21, 2011 by Pedro| Leave a comment
Cabinet by NePalo at CustomMade.com

If you’re doing your homework before you invest in custom furniture or custom made cabinetry, you may have encountered descriptions of sample pieces that specify who did the casework for the project, particularly if you’re looking at a home remodel … Continue reading →

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Space Saving Advantages of Custom Built-Ins

Posted on October 7, 2011 by Pedro| Leave a comment
Mountain Home Open Bookcase with Ladder by Calls Design Inc. at CustomMade.com

Are you trying to decide between freestanding or built-in custom furniture for your home?  A recent article in the Ottawa Citizen by Jennifer Cox, “Custom advantage: Use built-ins to maximize space and storage,” highlights some of the advantages of choosing … Continue reading →

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What is Mackintosh Style?

Posted on September 23, 2011 by Pedro| Leave a comment
Window Seat, Mackintosh Kitchen, by PCH Furniture & Design at CustomMade.com

When the Scottish architect, designer, and artist Charles Rennie Mackintosh (1868-1928) was commissioned to design and build Hill House, before “creating an elevation drawing or even a floor plan,” he spent a few days with the family of his client, … Continue reading →

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Vermont, Hurricane Irene, and Buying Local

Posted on September 16, 2011 by Leah| Leave a comment
custom theater marquee

Written by Patrick Kennedy of Superior Woodcraft, Inc. Attention All Consumers Dear Consumer, Buying Local isn’t just business. It is personal. Your local businesses are owned by your family, friends and neighbors. Thesue are very same people that create your community. … Continue reading →

Posted in Custom Concepts, For Customers, For Makers