Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What timber do you usually work in?
A: We have worked in many timbers but our main "stock in trade" is oak, closely followed by cherry, an attractive, dense fruitwood.
Q: If I order a piece of furniture, how long will it take to make?
A: If it is from our established designs, we may have it in stock. If not, probably allow six to eight weeks. It's handmade furniture - it will last several lifetimes - we would rather make it properly than rush it!
Q: Can I place an order without having to visit your Norfolk workshop?
A: The majority of orders are placed following telephone and/or e-mail communication. Comparatively few clients visit the workshop although we would be the first to encourage a visit. For larger projects, we are happy to visit you if preferred.
Q: If I am unable to visit, how do I confirm timber, colour, finish etc.?
A: It is probably best for us to send you small timber samples. If none of them suit, they at least provide a guide for us to prepare another set based on your comments. You can also send us a timber sample... it may even be a small drawer from a favourite antique. It can be safely returned when the furniture is delivered.
Q: Can I vary the dimensions or other details of items listed in your 'Established Designs'?
A: Absolutely! Just tell us which design you like and the changes you wish to make. This is probably the most frequent application of our 'Bespoke' service.
Q: Can I send you my own designs?
A: Absolutely! Remember to provide the dimensions too!
Q: I cannot draw but I have an idea for a piece of furniture that doesn't appear to exist anywhere! Where do we go from here?
A: Call us or send an e-mail... We can develop a concept sketch based on your ideas. If our interpretation is not right first time, we can hone the design until you feel it's right. We can estimate likely cost during this process. If you live close to Norfolk, why not make an appointment to call in and discuss with our concept or production designer?
Q: I am considering a traditional oak panelled study. You're based in Norfolk and my property is in Cheshire. Will you travel that far?
A: We have installed several panelled rooms in New England, a very large project in Florida, a similarly large project near Athens and one in the Hague. We've worked in the Isle-of-Man and throughout England and Wales. Cheshire is almost "local" so absolutely no problem... Would you like us to visit you to discuss?
Q: How do I pay you?
A: For furniture in stock you simply pay the agreed price in full and collect or we deliver to you when next in your area. For furniture made to order we appreciate a deposit of about 50% on confirmation with the balance becoming due on completion. For larger furniture projects or fitted joinery projects, we agree in advance a deposit amount, the stage payments throughout the project and the final payment due on completion of the project. Touch oak...In over thirty years we've never fallen out with anyone on these terms!
Q: How do I look after Bylaw furniture?
A: We mainly use a traditional 'cut back' shellac based finish, before applying several coats of wax. In domestic environments this gives an authentic country furniture patina whilst offering a reasonably durable finish. In the first few months after delivery, often a lightly dampened cloth will suffice to remove finger prints etc. followed by burnishing with a soft duster. Good quality furniture polish applied sparingly over the years will add to the patina. Alternatively, we have perfected what we call our 'hotel finish'. It is a durable finish for top surfaces that still retains the hand finished wax polish look. As the name suggests, it is ideal for commercial environments and very discriminating hoteliers have found it to be very acceptable.
Q: Compared to much furniture in the marketplace, Bylaw pieces seem quite expensive. Why is this?
A: Mass production reduces material and labour costs dramatically. Move that mass production base to a country where labour is cheap and working environments uncontrolled will further reduce costs. Take shortcuts in construction and finish... and the costs reduce even further. Bylaw is a small workshop here in Norfolk, England. We are not an assembly base for imported components. Every piece of furniture or joinery is hand made by British craftsmen. This is why we can offer a completely bespoke service. Our timber is hand planed and painstakingly finely sanded before being made into an item of furniture. These refined components are then jointed by hand with mortise, tenon and peg construction being the most usual method. Typically of British oak, you will find hand cut dovetails at the front and back of our drawers, you will see structural shapes that simply cannot be created by automated machines and even the unseen back boards of a cabinet are likely to be of oak... This is traditional furniture of the highest quality where completion ready for delivery includes up to sixteen finishing processes... and by virtue of the solid timber, the skilful handmaking and uncompromising finishing, every piece is unique. Additionally, much of the hardware fitted is handmade in Norfolk! ....You could ask the same question about cars.... Why is an Aston Martin more expensive than a Ford Fiesta!