Antique brass finish-Our brass finishes are a conversion process which naturally alters and antiques the surface of the brass, imparting a depth and character not achievable through any other method such as paint or other surface coatings.

Antique finish-A furniture finish that is distressed and stained to simulate the aged patina of an antique. Techniques include gentle marring of the surface, chemical processes and glazing or shading during finishing.

Applied coating-A layer of a substance spread over a surface for protection or decoration; a covering layer. Paint, epoxy, varnish, and plastic powder coatings are referred to as applied coatings. Different from surface conversion which actually alter the surface being finished. (see Antique Brass Finish in glossary)

Art Deco-Architectural and home furnishings style popular in the 1920's and 1930's that is characterized by streamlined silhouettes and "modern" materials, such as plastic, glass, chrome and leather.

Artisan-An experienced person skilled in a specialized trade, applied art or craft. A crafts person generally recognized after an extended apprenticeship.

Automatic lathes-Machine tool which use automatically controlled tooling to turn finials, posts and other decorative items following a pattern. Usually are generalized in nature and not as attractive as hand turned objects.

Baseball stitching-A double row of stitching which runs along both sides of a seam. It is used for a decorative effect but also strengthens the seam. Thread can be contrasting or coordinating color available in a variety of patterns.

Bauhaus-Early to mid-20th century German school of art and design that emphasized the concept that "form follows function." Furnishings in this style are marked by clean, simple, lines that are often hard-edged.

Bed rails-Parallel planks of wood, wood products, steel or iron used to join a head board and foot board on a bed. Forms the support for slats or deck to hold the box spring and/or mattress.

Bed skirt-A fabric or leather construction which hangs over the bed rails to cover the feet and open space between bed and the floor. Also know as dust ruffle as it prevent dust from accumulating under a bed.

Bell top canopy-A classic bell shaped construction on top of a canopy bed which forms a dome over the bed. May be covered with fabric or left bare. Our bell top is hand forged of solid iron bar and is designed for ease of assembly.

Biased-A term to describe a woven fabric which has an oblique or diagonal line of direction.

Blacksmith-A skilled crafts person who forges objects of iron using cold or hot forging processes. Blacksmith's use a variety of techniques such as hammering, bending and joinery; specialized jigs and different types of raw iron to make utilitarian and, depending on the skill of the smith, beautiful objects.

Bolster-A long cylindrical or rectangular cushion of varying length often used on beds, sofas or chaise lounges for reclining and decoration. Usually made from foam or feathers.

Book match veneer-Veneer layout which creates a pleasing matching design. Pairs of adjacent slices of veneer, as they are cut from the log, are opened up like the pages of a book, producing a mirror image of the grain pattern.

Bookcase bed-Bed which has space for holding books or other items. Generally found in the headboard, occasionally on footboard or sides.

Bow foot-Elegant bed design element in which the footboard has an outward bowing arc from post to post. Most often seen on metal beds but can be achieved in wood.

Box pleat skirt-An upholstery skirt with alternating high/low folds of fabric that creates a dentil pattern.

Bracket-Wood or metal block, rod or other shaped construction used to join or strengthen a corner. May be decorative and visible or hidden and purely structural.

Bracket foot-A low, right angle foot, usually constructed with a mitered corner. Commonly wood or iron. May be plain, molded, scrolled or carved. Common on Hepplewhite and Sheraton. Also known as a console leg.

Brass-Brass is any alloy of copper and zinc. The proportions of zinc and copper can be altered to create a range of brasses, each of which has unique properties suited to a particular environment and aesthetic use. (see "cartridge brass" in the glossary for the alloy used on our beds )

Brass castings-Molten brass which has solidified after molding to desired decorative shape or design. Substantially heavier than cheaper casting materials.

Brass finish-Our traditional high quality brass finishes consist of three basic processes. Natural brass is cleaned and lightly polished to remove any tiny imperfections and sealed with a low sheen lacquer. Polishing creates a bright high gloss finish using lacquer and polishing compounds. The third is antique brass, created by converting the surface of the brass with natural processes leaving a rich darkened patina.

Brass tubing-Hollow, pure brass tubes available in various gauges and diameters used for making our beds. Can be bent to create arcs and curves. Should not be confused with inferior imitations such as pot metal, painted tubing or tubing covered with a thin layer of pure brass which will wear through with use.

Button tufting-Upholstery treatment in which buttons (usually fabric or leather covered) are sewn through the surface and tied down to create a tailored, sometimes undulating, surface.

California king-A mattress size that measures 74"w x 86"l. This style of mattress was first popularized on the West coast of the United States but its use has spread. The additional size comes in the length creating a rectangular shape rather than the square shape of a standard king (Eastern King)

Canopy-Variously shaped construction joining tall corner posts on a bed. Often covered or draped in fabric and made from both metal and wood.

Canopy bed-Traditionally, a bed with a fabric roof over it. Originally a symbol of rank and privilege, today the canopy may be a wrought iron or a wood frame with stretchers between the posters, with or without the fabric draperies.

Canted-Sloping at an angle.

Cartridge brass-Cartridge brass is an attractive 30% zinc brass alloy with good cold working properties and excellent patination qualities.

Castings-Simple or decorative components produced by the process of pouring molten metals such as brass or iron into molds. Generally joins framework members and plays a definitive role in strength and overall decorative design.

Chaise-A chaise longue (French "long chair") is an upholstered divan in the shape of a chair that is long enough to support the legs. It is often also called "chaise lounge" in North America, particularly in the furniture industry. Also referred to as a settee.

Channel back-An upholstered cushion back having deep vertical grooves which can run horizontal or vertically which uses a specific upholstery technique.

Checking-The appearance of wide cracks or splits in wood due to expansion and contraction of the wood with changes in humidity. A natural occurrence when solid wood is exposed to large changes in temperature and humidity. Proper kiln drying can eliminate most but not all checking. (see kiln-dry in glossary)

Cherry-Deciduous tree grown in many hardwood forests in the U.S. Due to its excellent strength, color and ease of working and beautiful finishing properties, Cherry is considered a superior tight grain lumber for use in fine furniture and cabinetry.

Chesterfield-Upholstery style with overstuffed button tufting and upholstered ends. Traditionally has no exposed wood. Back and arms on a sofa are usually one continuous curve.

Colonial-In America, this style dominated from the earliest settlements to the Revolution of 1776. Here as elsewhere, it represents styles that are rooted in mother countries but adapted to the materials and uses of the colonies, primarily Africa, India, the Americas, and the Caribbean.

Contrasting welts-Welts that are either a different color or material than main upholstery material (See "welts" in glossary).

Corner block-Reinforcing blocks of wood bolted, screwed and/or glued to the interior corners of furniture for increased strength and stability.

Corner bracket-Wood or metal block, rod or other shape used to join or strengthen a corner. May be decorative and visible or hidden and purely structural.

Cotton-Cotton is a soft fiber that grows around the seeds of the cotton plant (Gossypium sp.), a shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including the Americas, India, and Africa. The fiber is most often spun into yarn or thread and used to make a soft, breathable textile, which is the most widely used natural-fiber cloth.

Cowhide-Hide of a cow specifically used to make leather. Grades and sizes are based on geography and tanning treatment. Other source of hides include buffalo, goat and pig.

Crest rail-The top horizontal piece which runs across a head or footboard. Can be made wood or metal and usually has a decorative shape or design.

Curved panel-A laminated curved construction method used for large panels. Appropriate manufacture provides resistance to changes in moisture and humidity which would damage solid wood and provides a suitable method for using rare and beautiful veneers which would otherwise be too brittle and unstable for use as a solid wood construction. A stable substrate such MDF is used; the veneer is applied to both front and back for a balanced, stable panel. It is laminated in a mold with a hot or cold press until the glue is dry and the panel is the desired shape.

Cushion-Foam, fiber, feather or combination contruction shaped and covered for providing comfort in seating or reclining.

Damask-A tightly woven flat fabric with a woven- in design. Made on a Jacquard loom.

Daybed-A narrow (33") or twin-sized (39") bed used as sofa-like seating with the bed frame consisting of a headboard and footboard, generally of the same height. Our daybeds allow a secondary mattress to be stored underneath daybed with a trundle unit. Originally, a term applied to extended chairs i.e. a chaise lounge.

Daybed skirts-Fabric or leather construction which hangs below the mattress to cover the trundle unit or empy space.

Deck-Foundation or base on which a mattress or loose seat cushions rest. Frequently used on daybed, trundle beds or platform beds. Our decks utilize either a padded, upholstered deck, wire top-spring or European style slat system.

Decorative hardware-Carved, cast or shaped item such as a finial, cover, frame casting etc. that serves to join two components together in an attractive manner.

Distressed-A surface that has been artificially aged with sanding, punctures, gouges and/or glazing.

Dobby dot-A small geometric figure woven into fabric by using a specialized attachment on a weaving loom.

Dobby weave-A small geometric or floral pattern produced by using a dobby attachment on a weaving loom.

Draping-To cover or hang with cloth or other fabric, esp. in graceful, attractive folds; to adorn with drapery. Generally refers to material used with a canopy bed.

Duvet cover-A covering usually of cotton or linen which holds a duvet inside and is removable for washing. Closures include buttons, zippers or ties.

Egyptian cotton-The term Egyptian cotton is usually applied to the extra long staple cotton produced in Egypt and favored for the luxury and upmarket brands worldwide.

Embroidery-Embroidery is the art of decorating fabric or other materials with designs stitched in strands of thread or yarn using a needle. Using one or more stitches that are always executed in the same way, forming a figure of recognizable look.

End matching-The process of placing veneers end-to-end to create a continuous pattern.

Ensemble-A collection of items usually referring to bed linens or other fabric constructions which have a coordinating theme, color or style.

European linen-Linen is a material made from the fibers of the flax plant. It has been used for table coverings, bed coverings and clothing for centuries. The exclusivity of linen stems from the fact that it is difficult and time consuming to produce (flax in itself requires a great deal of attention in its growth). Flax is difficult to weave because of its lack of elasticity, and therefore is more expensive to manufacture than cotton. The benefits of linen however, are unmatched and Europe has long produced the most respected quality linen. Due to the parallel arrangement of its fibers, linen is a stronger, sturdier fabric than cotton. In addition, linen is highly absorbent (perfect for dish towels and napkins). Due to its insulating qualities, linen coverings provide cooling benefits. The subtle combination of firmness and softness of linen make this fabric a favorite. Linen can be machine-washed (and grows softer with time and use) and then ironed while still damp with a hot iron. Linen products tend to outlast cotton, enduring up to 20 years of use.

Federal style-Historically the period of 1780-1820. A style that emerged in the US after the revolutionary war that was similar to Sheraton, Hepplewhite and Adams utilizing precise, simplified forms. Classicism provided influences as the young country considered itself the rightful heir to the republic of ancient Rome. Sparingly used decorative motifs such as acanthus leaves, pineapples, scrolls and pilasters are common Federal design elements.

Figured makore-Makore wood which has a repetitive, attractive shimmering pattern inherent in the grain as a result of growth patterns of the tree.

Finial-A decorative ornament, such a the top of a bed post, that is carved or turned on a lathe. Can be wood, brass, iron or aluminum. Spheres, cannonballs, pineapples and acorns are classic motifs.

Finishing-The process of dyeing, staining, painting or sealing a material to alter its appearance and protect the surface. We apply our finishes in multiple, hand applied layers for a deep, natural appearance and luminosity.

Flame-Highly beautiful and valued veneer. Trade term used to describe crotch Mahogany veneer which is cut from the large joints in Mahogany trees. Always used as a veneer applied to another surface due to the hardness and fracturing grain pattern.

Flange-Raised decorative edge created by folding fabric over on itself and sewing together. Also to prevent fraying of fabric.

Fleur-de-lis-A French heraldic object somewhat resembling three petals or floral segments of an iris tied by an encircling band. Traditionally used as decorative shape, pattern or motif. We hand forge all of our Fleur-de-lis elements.

Footboard-Panel or structure situated at the foot of a bed frame onto which side rails are fastened to join with the headboard.

Forging-The art and process of heating iron to high temperatures for working by hammering, bending or shaping while in a malleable state. Techniques of craft used by blacksmiths.

Foundry-A foundry is a factory which produces metal castings from either ferrous or non-ferrous alloys. Metals are turned into parts by melting the metal into a liquid, pouring the metal in a mold, and then removing the mold material or the casting. We cast all of our decorative elements in our own foundry.

Four poster bed-A bed style that has four posts, one in each corner, that are generally capped at the top. The four poster bed was once designed to support a tester, from which curtains would hang and enclose the bed protecting sleepers from drafts and insects. Though the original four poster bed was designed with specific uses in mind, the modern four poster bed is simply a style of furniture that lends a very traditional look to a room.

Framework-Refers to the basic structure of a bed such as posts, uprights or cross members. May be decorative or plain depending on area and style.

French gold-Our multi-layered finish for our iron beds which has a warm reddish- gold color and shimmering appearance.

Front rail-The frame part lowest to the floor, and at the front of the bed.

Full grain leather-Highest quality leather. Has not been altered with grain correction due to select quality surface texture.

Gaslight-Traditional style of iron or brass beds with rounded arching corners.

Gauge-Measurements which refer to the thickness of metal in tube or sheet form - varies by composition and material.

Gilded-Gilding is the art of applying metal leaf (most commonly gold or silver leaf) or finely ground metal powder to a surface.

Glazing-Process of artfully applying shading, color or tone to accentuate natural aspects of a given material.

Glides-Buttons of plastic or metal applied to bottom of legs to make furniture easier to move around and to prevent damage to flooring.

Grain-Variations in color and texture made by the size and arrangements of cells and pores of a living tree and revealed when wood is cut through the trunk in an horizontal direction. Also a term used to describe cells in leather hides and amount of adjustment applied during the tanning process.

Green sand molds-Green Sand is an aggregate of sand, bentonite clay, pulverized coal and water. Its principal use is in making molds for the casting of metals. The largest portion of the aggregate is always sand.

Hand-forged iron-The art and process of heating iron to high temperatures for working by hammering, bending or shaping while in a malleable state by a blacksmith; as opposed to altering by mechanical means to produce the appearance of handwork. True hand forged iron has a surface with unique markings and elegance based on the skill and knowledge of the blacksmith.

Hardwoods-Wood from a deciduous tree. Maple, Cherry, Walnut, Mahogany and Oak are examples of hardwoods frequently used in high end furniture construction and cabinetry.

Headboard-Panel or various style of structure situated at the head of a bed frame which joins to the foot board with side rails. Sometimes used alone and connected to a standard bed frame or may attach directly to the wall to allow easy height adjustment.

Hemstitch-A hem along a line from which threads have been drawn out, stitching the cross threads into a series of small decorative groups. Usually found on antique or luxury items.

High resilience padding-Foam of specified weight & density that responds to pressure with the same recover time over a long period of use. We use specific foam densities in different areas of construction based on providing comfort, for maintaining shape and durability with repeated use.

Inverted seam-An inverted seam secures the top panel to the border portion of a fabric or leather cover to eliminate bumps and creases often found in conventional welted top seam.

Iron-Iron is a lustrous, silvery soft metal. It is ductile, malleable and durable and used in its carbon-containing forms for making furniture and other goods. Forms of iron vary according to compositions and process of making. Forms include pig iron, wrought iron, cast iron, carbon steel and other alloys.

Iron bar-Rolled form of solid iron available in various lengths and thickness. Transformed through the forging process into bed components. (see "iron" in glossary)

Jacquard-Fabric with an intricately woven pattern. Damask and brocade are both fabrics produced on a jacquard loom.

Japanning-A black or red enamel lacquer applied in several layers that creates a glossy finish.

Joinery-The art or craft of a joiner used for connecting pieces of wood or iron together. Can be decorative or hidden, but results in some inherent strength of the connection based on the joint. Also refers to work done by a joiner; fine woodwork.

Kiln-dry-The process of slow-drying lumber from its green state to prevent warping, cracking and checking to make it suitable for use in furniture building or other indoor woodwork. A kiln is the large chamber in which this process occurs. A variety of wood kilning systems exist including steam, vacuum and dehumidifying processes; all of which serve to remove excess moisture from raw wood. (see "seasonal changes" in glossary)

Lacquer-A multi-layered varnish that can be polished to a desired sheen and has a durable, hard surface.

Leveler-Adjustable component on the foot of a bed or bed frame that can compensate for an uneven floor and thus level the bed.

Lost wax casting-The lost wax casting process, sometimes known by the French name of cire perdue, is an ancient practice that is still used for highly detailed objects and artwork today and utilizes wax in the molding process. Many of our castings are formed using this process.

Low profile foundation-A thin version of a box spring that offsets very thick mattresses when in a bed frame. Prevents bedding from being too high or appearing out of proportion with the bed.

Luminocity-Glow produced by reflecting light. Describes a surface which attractively reflects light as opposed to an opaque surface which flattens and absorbs light and appears dull.

Mahogany-Mahogany is a generally straight grain wood and is usually free of voids and pockets. It has a reddish brown color which darkens over time, and displays a beautiful sheen when polished. It has excellent workability, and is very durable. These properties make it a favorable wood for boat making as well as for making furniture, musical instruments, and other durable objects.

Makore-A rare and high quality hardwood used for furniture, cabinet work, joinery and decorative veneers. We use highly figured Makore veneers in our products and American Cherry for the matching solids.

Marquetry-Intricate close-fitting inlays of wood, ivory, mother-of-pearl or metal as a surface decoration. Often executed as a veneer.

Mattress and box spring-A mattress is a thick mat or pad on which to sleep or lie. Generally made from foam, latex or inner springs and an upholstered cover. Traditionally placed atop a box spring or deck on a bed frame. A box spring consist of a rigid frame which contains extra-heavy-duty springs.

Mattress Sizes-Daybed 33 x 75"/Twin 39 x 75"/Full 54 x 75"/Queen 60 x 80"/King 76 x 80"/California King 72 x 84"

Metal-An alloy or mixture composed wholly or partly of such substances such as brass, iron nickel, zinc or steel.

Metal lathe-A machine for use in working metal, steel, brass etc., that holds the material and rotates it about a horizontal axis against a tool that shapes it.

Micro fiber-Fabric made from extremely thin synthetic fibers. It is appreciated for its soft hand, durability, stain resistance and ease of cleaning.

Micro suede-A variety of micro fiber fabric that displays a distinct nap that makes it look and feel like suede leather.

Mid-century modern-A design style that emerged in the mid 20th century that is characterized by clean simple lines, be they geometric or organic. The movement embraced modern technology and the space age, but without kitsch. It smoothed the edges of modernism to make a democratic, livable style.

Milling-The operation of cutting, shaping, finishing, or working products or components into manufactured items.

Mitered-Method of joining wood at an angle to form a corner. Generally, a miter is made at a 45 degree angle but can be done at other angles.

Mold-A hollow form for giving a particular shape to a material in a molten state. Upon cooling the mold is removed allowing the material to retain the desired shape. Mold making materials vary; sand, wax, plastics, aluminum and other metals are all mediums used to make molds depending on need and quality requirements.

Molten-Metals such as brass, steel or aluminum when heated to a liquid state. Used in the casting process to pour into molds until cooled and solidified into the desired form.

Mortise-and-Tenon-A method of joining two pieces of wood where the projecting tenon of one piece fits into the opening (mortise) of the other. Also known as hot dogs and doughnuts.

Nail head trim-The decorative use of a line of tacks at fabric / leather attachment points on upholstered goods. Often of solid brass or chromed steel. (see tacks)

Natural brass finish-Our natural brass finish is accomplished by cleaning and lightly polishing brass to remove any tiny imperfections and sealing with a low sheen lacquer.

Nonwoven-A class of polyester fabrics produced by the bonding or interlocking of fibers, or both. The non woven fabric is made by mechanical, chemical, thermal, or solvent means, or with an adhesive, or any combination of these, as distinct from weaving, knitting, or tufting.

Open footboard-A bed without a foot board or a low foot board instead of the more traditional matching headboard/footboard. Excellent style of bed for smaller spaces or when a less encompassing feeling is desired.

Oval top-Finial style which is oval from the top view rather than spherical or other design.

Panel bed-A bed frame with a panel of wood or other material for the headboard and foot board. Panel beds are not flanked by vertical posts or legs at the corners.

Patina-Wear and oxidation that occur to a finish (metal or wood) as it ages. Very sought after effect as patina gives surface a deep, rich luster.

Patination-Softening of color and texture of a surface through age, wear, or rubbing. Considered a characteristic of fine quality materials and a hallmark of true antiques.

Pattern-A model or form, usually of hand carved wood or metal, used for giving the shape of the interior of a mold. Also refers to a decorative design, as for wallpaper or textile fabrics.

Pillow top mattress-Modern mattress construction that includes a thick layer of foam on top of a traditional mattress construction. Often reaches comic proportions reminiscent of the "Princess and the Pea." Standard pillow tops are usually 12"-20" but some may be as thick as 24".

Pillows-Fiber, foam or feather filled cushion available in a variety of shapes and styles.Typical pillow sizes are: Standard- 20" x 26" (51 x 66 cm) / King- 20" x 36" (51 x 92 cm) / European Square- 26" x 26" (66 x 66 cm) Decorative Pillows: Boudoir-12" x 16" (30 x 41 cm) / Throw pillow/ Breakfast Square-18" x 18" (46 x 46 cm) / Neckroll Pillow-6" x 13" (15 x 33 cm)

Planks-Large, wide and thick pieces of solid wood.

Plantation grown-Trees specifically planted and grown for use as lumber in an ecologically sustainable and managed manner.

Platform bed-A bed that does not require a box spring. Instead of the box spring, platform beds incorporate a solid surface or slats for the mattress to rest on. Sometimes this surface extends a few inches or more beyond the dimensions of the mattress. Usually low to the floor and modern in style.

Pleat-A fold of definite, even width made by doubling cloth or the like upon itself and pressing or stitching it in place. Found on bed skirts and clothing.

Polished brass finish-A bright, high gloss finish using lacquer and polishing compounds. Difficult to perfect, polishing true brass is a unique art which requires skill and patience. Impossible to imitate by paint or other less intensive processes.

Poster bed-A bed frame with tall posts, often capped with finials, at the corners of the headboard and footboard.

Powder coated finishes-Powder coating is a type of dry, hard finish, which is applied as a free-flowing, dry powder. The main difference between a conventional liquid paint and a powder coating is that the powder coating does not require a solvent to keep the binder and filler parts in a liquid suspension form. The coating is typically applied electrostatically and is then cured under heat to allow it to flow and form a "skin." Powder coated finishes do not acquire a patina and tend to be flat and one dimensional in appearance but suitable if not a decorative part.

Prima-Top quality or first class.

Proportion-Agreeable or harmonious relation of parts within a whole; balance or symmetry.

Proprietary-A method, item or process that is used, produced, or marketed under exclusive legal right of the inventor or maker.

Pull-over back-Furniture design in which back padding wraps around and over back rather than being squared off and trimmed with welting.

Pull-up leather-Full grain leather that is treated with oil or wax so that it develops an aged patina over time. More common on traditional styles, it is also know as oiled or waxed leather.

Quilted-An upholstery effect created by using two layers of fabric or leather with a layer of cotton, wool, feathers, or down in between, all stitched firmly together, usually in a decorative crisscross, diamond or other design.

Rail-Horizontal bar of wood or metal supporting and tying two ends of a piece of furniture together. For example, on a bed the rails tie the headboard and footboard together and help support the mattress. The horizontal crosspiece at the top of a bed may be referred to as a crest rail.

Rail system-Side rails, hardware and center supports necessary to assemble a bed and support the mattress and box springs.

Red lacquer-A multi-layered varnish that has red pigment added. Polished to a high sheen in multiple coats and has a durable, hard surface.

Reproduction-Copy of an antique design. Most often made using modern processes which involve less handwork and clearly are of a lower quality. We use the traditional materials and processes developed over our long history to insure an authentic and high quality product.

Ribbon veneer-Grain effect found in certain woods such as Mahogany or Sapele, which gives an alternating light and dark contrast which appear as long undulating ribbons.

Rubbed finish-Wood or metal polished with abrasives and oils for a durable finish with a low sheen.

Saddle stitched-A decorative form of sewing a leather cover. Used more for ornamentation on furniture. It is not required for a good seam closure.

Sand casting-Sand casting is the process of production of objects by pouring molten material in to a cavity formed from sand, called a mold, which is the negative of the object, and allowing it to cool and solidify. A casting process used on most of our castings to insure precise detail and authenticity.

Sanding-Using an abrasive to smooth the surface of a material for finishing. Proper sanding runs through a series of different grade of abrasive; each grade used to remove the tiny scratches left by the last until only a mirror smooth surface remain. Machines are utilized in some operations but careful hand sanding insures crisp profiles and preservation of details. Hand blocks are used to maintain dead flat surfaces.

Scrollwork-The art of bending, forging or shaping either solid or tubular material into curves, circles and arcs.

Seasonal changes-As a living material, all wood naturally fluctuates in moisture content dependent on temperature and humidity. Overheating, over drying or any other extremes in temperature or humidity can have a negative affect even on the finest wood furniture. Swelling, cracking or crazing or other imperfections can be minimized by avoiding large fluctuations in the home environment. When properly kiln dried, constructed and finished, wood movement can then be limited to a minor cosmetic changes without structural damage.

Semi-aniline leather-Aniline dyed leather with a layer of matching pigment added to improve color consistency and add protection. Can be difficult to care for due to its ease of scratching and staining.

Settee-Chaise lounge or other transitional seating upon which you can recline or sit.

Shams-Decorative pillow cases which usually come in standard, Euro or other sizes. (see "pillows" in glossary for sizes)

Sheen-Level of shine and reflective properties associated with a finished surface.

Sheets-Fabric constructions used specifically to serve as sleeping surface on a mattress. Usually consists of set which includes fitted bottom sheet and flat top sheet. Maybe be made of linen, cotton or synthetic materials.

Silver leaf-The application of leaves of paper-thin sheets of silver to create a rich, opulent surface. Also referred to as gilding. We use genuine sheets of sterling silver for our silver leafing which we carefully glaze for a delicate authentic surface. Most production silver or gold gilding is a layer of paint or imitation metals.

Skirt-Fabric construction running along the lower perimeter of a bed designed to hide the legs and keep dust from accumulating under bed. Also referred to as a dust ruffle.

Sleigh bed-A classic bed style that resembles the shape of a horse-drawn sleigh with scroll-shaped headboard and footboard. The headboard is slightly higher than the footboard. Modern sleighs often have only a headboard and an open or low footboard.

Spindles-Decorative turnings of various sizes found on a variety of bed designs.

Split foundation-A box spring that is divided into two components and designed to be used in pair under a single mattress. Common for king size mattresses, split foundations may also be available for queen mattresses.

Split leather-The lower layers of a hide that are removed to create a uniform thickness on a top grain hide. These lower layers are also processed and treated with a protective polyurethane sealant for use in upholstery. Generally considered low quality.

Split Queen Boxspring Rails-Since box springs are less flexible than mattresses, split queen box springs are utilized to allow a larger bed to be moved up small stairwells or through narrow halls. Our Split queen box spring rails utilize a full length king size center support to insure a split box spring has proper support. Applicable on our iron or brass beds as our wood beds already offer head to toe support.

Stain-Pigment that penetrates the surface of wood, as opposed to sitting on the surface, used to alter the color of the wood. After staining, the wood surface is usually protected with a finish of oil, wax, lacquer, or shellac.

Stainless steel-Stainless steel is defined as an iron-carbon alloy with a minimum of 10.5% chromium content. The name originates from the fact that stainless steel does not stain, corrode or rust as easily as ordinary steel.

Steel-Any of various modified forms of iron having a carbon content less than that of pig iron and more than that of wrought iron, and having qualities of hardness, elasticity, and strength varying according to composition and heat treatment: generally categorized as having a high, medium, or low-carbon content.

Substrate-Base material for the application of veneers. Can be solid wood, plywood or manufactured wood. (MDF) Many of the finest veneers are brittle or prone to cracking due to the complex grain structure and are only usable with a substrate.

Swatch-Small piece of fabric, leather, wood or other material which shows color, texture or weight.

Tacks-Tacks are fasteners used to attach upholstery to frames in various patterns along edges and seams. They may have simple or decorative heads which can be made of a variety of metals including higher quality brass heads. Lower quality production furniture tends to utilize strip tack, a series of tacks in a plastic strip, which require less labor and skill than traditionally individually applied single tacks.

Test-Just a test. A test, test, test.

Thread count-Thread count refers to the number of threads, both vertical and horizontal, in a one-inch square of fabric. While fabrics are available with thread counts up to 1000+, anything in excess of 400-450 is considered by most to be simply extraneous. Thread count is affected by a number of factors, including ply and thickness of the threads used. The ply of the fabric refers to how many threads are wrapped together into a single thread. Single-ply fabrics use threads on their own, while two-ply fabrics twist two pieces together into a stronger thread, as well as doubling the thread count of the fabric.

Tiger Mahogany-Our finishing method which accentuates the natural grain and depth found in Mahogany by using alternating layers of glazing and clear coats to accentuate the multitude of orange, red and brown hues. A bold and vivid finish.

Top grain leather-Leather with the outermost layers of the hide left on. Used in high quality leather goods. Often shows natural characteristics such as small scars, marks or variety of grain pattern due to cell structure.

Top spring-Steel system of interlocking wires used to support a mattress. Framed around the perimeter with thick gauge angle iron.

Topstitching-A single or double row of stitching close to the seam or edge on the outer side of the fabric.

Transitional-A furniture style in which design elements are toned down so that the piece may fit with a traditional or more contemporary decor.

Transitional beds-Style of beds which contain design elements that are both traditional and contemporary allowing use in a variety of interior decor motifs.

Trundle bed-Generally, a twin size 39" or daybed sized 33" bed frame which allow another mattress to be stored underneath it. A trundle bed ordinarily has a traditional height headboard and a lower footboard; whereas a daybed generally has two ends of the same height. May be wood or metal in construction.

Trundle unit-A pullout bed on casters or wheels which is stored under a trundle bed or daybed. Modern trundle units pop-up for ease of use.

Tufting-The process of drawing a cord through a deep cushion giving high puffs of padding and small low valleys where the cord is drawn. Names are given to tufting describing the shape of the tuft such as "diamond," "biscuit," or "square." Buttons are often attached to cords to highlight the tufting design.

Tumbling-A process in which tanned hides are placed in drums with heat and water and tumbled to a desired softness. Also call "milling".

Turnings-Finials, spools, posts and feet are created by spinning and shaping either wood or metal on a lathe to create a patterned design. Can be done by hand or automatic machine. Hand turning in wood usually results in highly detailed, finer work.

Twin and Full extra long beds-A standard 39" (twin) or 53" (full) wide mattress that is 80" long instead of the standard 75" in length.

Upholstery-The process and objects created by covering an underlying wood or metal structure with padding and a cover.

Veneer-A surface overlay of a thin sheet of wood. While often having a negative connotation, veneer is a historically important and necessary technique. Many times wood with the most beautiful grain pattern must be used as veneer to insure workability and stability due to the fracturous nature of complex grain structures. The underlying material may be solid wood, or a composite wood product.

Veneer panel-A laminated construction method used for large panels esp. when curved or bent. Appropriate manufacture provides resistance to changes in moisture and humidity which would damage or be impossible in solid wood. It also provides a suitable method for using rare and beautiful veneers which would otherwise be too unstable for use as a solid wood construction. A stable substrate is used and the veneer is applied to both front and back for a balanced, stable panel and is laminated in a hot or cold press until the glue is dry and the panel is the desired shape.

Waterfall-A visual effect created when wood is joined so that the grain transitions into a second plane.

Weave-To interlace (threads, yarns, strips, fibrous material, etc.) so as to form a fabric or material. The manner in which cloth is woven both in terms of tightness and in terms of texture.

Welt-Fabric-covered cord used as a trim in the seams of upholstery or toss pillows. Also known as cording or piping. May be of the same or contrasting color or material.

Wing-Either of two forward extensions of the sides of the back of an easy chair or bed. Originally design to prevent drafts and hold the heat when chairs were placed near a fireplace.

Wingback chair-A high-backed, upholstered easy chair with panels or wings projecting forward from the sides of the back and curving downward to meet the roll arms.

Wood platform-Any variety of wood surfaces which serve to support a mattress.

Wrought iron-Wrought iron refers to both a type of metal and a process of formation. More traditionally, wrought iron is a variety of iron, with additives that make it twistable with a low corrosion rate.

Wrought iron finish-Our exclusive wrought iron finish is the result of seven hand applied layers. The finish is luminous and deep and imparts a patina and richness usually reserved for antique iron. Easy to repair, the finish is both durable and attractive.

Yarns-Yarn is a continuous strand made up of fibers or filaments, used for making fabric or textiles of various kinds. The distinct types of knitting yarn are categorized by their weight, purpose, ply, source fiber(s), texture, color, and pattern. In addition, knitters choosing yarn will want to match yardage and gauge.