Green Furniture – What is It and How Do We Make It

It is becoming more obvious every day that we currently live in an era where “going green” has become quite fashionable.  Determining what is considered environmentally friendly is much like trying to describe beauty; it really comes down to what is in the eyes of the beholders.  So, the concept of making green furniture or eco friendly furniture is really quite appropriate and in line with the ongoing trend to be green.  However, what qualifies a piece of furniture as being green is open for discussion.

The interpretations of going green vary from one individual to another and many businesses are adopting the green concept.  There are many commercial furniture makers today that consider themselves “green”.  There are green restaurants, green realtors and oddly enough some green concrete companies.  But, the real question is; just what do the phrases “going green” or “green furniture” really mean?

Why shouldn’t we make green furniture?  It is a concept that is adhered to and used quite often throughout the woodworking industry.  It would only seem natural for individual woodworkers to adopt this popular and environmentally friendly approach to making eco friendly furniture or completing any woodworking project.

What is Green Furniture

The obvious question is; just what does it take for a piece of furniture to be considered green.  A good approach when building green furniture is to begin by using wood that sustainably harvested.  Sustainably harvested domestic hardwoods are preferred.  However, the term domestic is relative to what region you live in, but any wood that is FSC certified will be considered sustainable.

What is FSC Sustainably Harvested Wood

The definition of sustainable harvesting is; to use wood or any natural resource in a manner that will keep it viable.

Wood that is certified by the FSC is definitely a sustainably harvested resource.  The FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) is an international non-profit organization whose sole purpose is to advocate the use of wood that is obtained from forests that are properly managed.

The standards set by the FSC reflect the principles of responsible management of forests, and they accredit organizations and groups that certify specific woodlands and forests that are managed within the set guidelines. The accredited groups monitor the way companies and suppliers acquire their wood and also insure that the sources are FSC certified. The FSC seal is a guarantee that you can trust.

Why Build Green Furniture

Although making truly green furniture from only FSC certified wood is not always that simple, it is always worthwhile.  FSC wood is not always readily available in the common and popular species, and the wood that is; may or may not be available in the standard thickness ranges for hardwood.  Some artisans take pride in the fact that they not only use FSC wood exclusively, but also use only wood found locally.  This is a good approach but may not be practical for all furniture makers.

There are many sources both locally and worldwide for FSC wood.  So if you do not find it your local lumber yard, don’t worry.  Just ask them, they will know where to refer you.

Building Your Own Green Furniture

The only difference between building  eco-friendly or green furniture and other types of furniture is wood that you will ultimately decide upon using.  The art of furniture building can be incredibly rewarding and enjoyable.  Besides, doing so with an environmental saving approach can only enhance the experience even more.

There is available to those interested in building their own furniture, a well written program called Teds Woodworking.  It is a very good resource loaded with easy woodworking plans for all types of furniture building, and all types of woodworkers, from beginner to expert.  Visit Teds Woodworking, where you can read more about building your own green furniture.

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