ABOUT THE COMPANY
Nevin Peters Woodworking was established in 2001, and is located in Berwyn, Illinois. Trained at the Bauhaus Apprenticeship Institute in Chicago, I spent several years as a hobbyist, then became an instructor in the hand tools and power tools courses at the Bauhaus Apprenticeship Institute before beginning to build pieces professionally. The shop is a one person artisans studio, and I take pride in establishing a personal connection with each piece I make, and each client I serve.

ABOUT THE FURNITURE
Each piece of furniture is made entirely by hand using select hardwoods, with a focus on wood species that are native to the Great Lakes region. With few exceptions, no nails and a minimum of mechanical fasteners are used in the construction process. Instead, the pieces are assembled using time honored joinery techniques and old world craftsmanship, insuring unmatched quality that will last through generations of use. These traditional methods are combined with a modern design sensibility to produce unique timeless and stylish heirloom quality furniture, which I hope will bring pleasure to the user for many years.

ABOUT THE FINISHES
Lumber for each project is carefully selected and matched for color and grain orientation. My goal in the finishing process is to accentuate the natural beauty and unique characteristics and coloring of each species of wood, not to add artificial effects. I seldom will use stains in the finishing process. Different finishes are appropriate for different types of wood. When appropriate, my own blend of oil and varnish is used. It is specially formulated to penetrate into the wood to bring out it’s natural luster and grain pattern, and also to protect it so that it will withstand the rigors of everyday use. At least three coats of finish are applied and buffed by hand to build up durability and sheen. When appropriate, a wax topcoat is then applied. In cases where a penetrating oil is not appropriate, a clear protective varnish or shellac is used.

SUSTAINABILITY
The health of the environment (both the natural environment and the environment within the home) is very important to me. Wood is a renewable resource, and whenever possible lumber certified by the Forest Stewardship Council is selected. This ensures that the material comes from sustainably managed plantations. Many new high quality materials and finishes that are healthier for the environment and for the individual are now available. These materials are incorporated into the furniture pieces wherever possible, ensuring a minimum of impact on the natural world, and a finished product that is as healthy for the user as possible.