The Manufacturing Process of Wooden Chairs: From Logs to Finished Products

Nick Chang
June 1, 2023
5 min read

Wooden chairs are timeless pieces of furniture that add warmth and elegance to any space. Behind their beauty lies a meticulous manufacturing process that ensures the highest quality and durability. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step production flow of wooden chairs, highlighting each essential process involved. From the initial log to the final packaging, each stage contributes to creating a masterpiece of craftsmanship.

Log:

The journey begins with carefully selected logs, known as logwood. These logs are the raw material for furniture production. They are then sent to the sawmill for further processing.

Sawmilling Process:

During the sawmilling process, the logs are split into panels of required sizes. These panels are sorted based on their thickness and wood type. To achieve optimal moisture content, they are initially placed outdoors to allow natural evaporation. After a week, the wood is ready for the next stage.

Kiln Dry Process:

Next comes the kiln drying process, which aims to reduce the moisture content of the wood to around 12 to 15%. This critical step ensures stability and prevents future issues such as cracking and warping. The drying duration ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the wood species, panel thickness, and the capacity of the drying facility. Proper equipment is essential to minimize the risk of damage during this crucial process.

Splitting and Cutting:

Once dried, the wood undergoes splitting and cutting. With the help of cutting tools, the wood is shaped and divided into components according to the required sizes for the chairs. CNC machines or saws are commonly used for this purpose, ensuring precision and accuracy.

Planning and Drilling Process:

The components then go through the planning and drilling process. Planing machines or thicknessers are employed to achieve a smooth surface, removing any saw marks. Following that, drilling machines or pen machines (Tenoners and Mortizers) are used to create the necessary construction elements. These processes lay the foundation for the assembly stage.

Sanding Process:

To refine the components further, the sanding process takes place. Each component is meticulously sanded to ensure a consistent size and a smooth surface. This step prepares the pieces for the final assembly.

Assembling Process:

The assembling process is where all the components come together to form the finished wooden chair. This step requires precision and patience, as the strength and overall quality of the product depend on the assembly. Proper glue usage and attention to detail are vital to ensure a sturdy and flawless final piece. Assembling is a relatively long and complex process, but it is essential for achieving a high-quality end product.

Finishing Process:

After assembly, the finishing process takes place. This involves applying a protective layer to the wood surface to enhance its appearance and safeguard it from insects and moisture. Depending on the chair type, finishing may be done before or after the assembly stage.

Packing Process:

Once the finishing process is complete, the chairs move to the packaging area. Here, additional accessories, such as keys, handles, and reels, are attached. The packaging varies based on the intended purpose and the quality level of the furniture. For expensive or long-distance deliveries, stronger and more secure packaging is necessary to ensure the safe arrival of the chairs.

Conclusion:

The manufacturing process of wooden chairs is a journey that starts from carefully selected logs and ends with beautifully crafted and functional pieces of furniture. Each step, from log to packaging, plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality, durability, and aesthetics of the final product. With attention to detail, skilled craftsmanship, and adherence to strict quality standards, wooden chair manufacturers create pieces that stand the test of time and bring comfort and beauty to countless homes and spaces.

Nick Chang
Sales Marketing at Gofada