Karen Fischer

Buying handmade wood décor gives you more choices than purchasing something mass-produced. Learn which of our four ordering options is right for you.

One of the things I enjoy most about working with wood is that a piece doesn’t always have to start—or end—as a rectangle. Wood can be shaped, detailed and customized in many different ways. A serving board can become a maple leaf, moose or loon. A simple piece of hardwood can have a paw print, maple leaf or other design added as an inlay. Even a small recessed detail can completely change the character of a finished piece.

Every piece I make can be built in several woods, and the right choice depends on what you're buying, how you'll use it, and what look you want. This guide walks you through the decision without asking you to become a woodworker first.