Frequently Asked Questions

Materials and Finishes

What types of wood do you use?

We primarily work with solid American hardwoods like walnut, white oak, and maple. While those are our most popular options, we’re open to sourcing other hardwoods upon request and have done so for past clients. Reach out if you have something specific in mind.

Do you offer samples?

Yes—wood and finish samples are available for purchase here.

What’s the difference between Osmo, polyurethane, and conversion varnish finishes?

Osmo (Hardwax Oil) is a penetrating oil-and-wax finish. It soaks into the wood rather than sitting heavily on top, which leaves a soft, matte appearance and allows you to feel the grain. It’s easy to maintain and can be spot-repaired if needed.

Polyurethane is a clear protective coating that forms a durable surface layer. It offers strong resistance to moisture, stains, and everyday wear, making it a practical option for dining tables and high-use pieces while still allowing the wood’s natural variation to show through.

Conversion varnish is a catalyzed finish that cures into a very hard, durable surface. It provides the highest level of protection against heat, moisture, and heavy daily use. We offer it as a $195 upgrade and often recommend it for households with young children or frequent entertaining.

If you’re unsure which finish makes the most sense for your space, we’re happy to walk through the options with you.

Can I request a custom paint or stain?

Yes. If you have a specific paint color, we can coordinate a finish based on a Benjamin Moore or Sherwin-Williams code.

For custom stains, we offer a sampling process for an additional $295. This includes up to three rounds of samples to help dial in the tone.

Because wood species, grain variation, finishing products, and application methods all affect the final result, we cannot guarantee an exact match to another piece. Our goal is to achieve a close, cohesive finish that works well within your space.

If you're trying to coordinate with an existing item, we’re happy to review photos and talk through expectations before moving forward.

Lead Times and Production

How long does it take to make my piece?

Production typically takes 10-12 weeks from the date of purchase for standard website pieces.

For fully custom projects that require shop drawings, production begins once drawings are approved.

Rush production may be available depending on our current schedule. Please inquire prior to ordering if you are working within a specific timeframe.

Lead times may vary slightly due to material availability or seasonal demand.

Final payment is due prior to shipping once completion photos are approved.

Will I receive updates during production?

Once your order is placed, we’ll confirm that it has been received and secured in our build schedule.

We don’t send routine updates during production, but you’re always welcome to reach out with questions at any time.

When your piece is complete, we’ll send photos for your review and approval before coordinating shipment. Delivery scheduling can take up to two weeks depending on your location and shipping method. The shipper will contact you directly to schedule your delivery appointment.

Customization and Design

Do you provide digital renderings before I order?

We provide shop drawings or digital renderings once a deposit has been placed. These are part of the production process and allow us to confirm final dimensions and details before building begins.

For standard shop pieces, drawings are typically created after an order is placed. If you would like to review drawings in advance, please reach out to discuss your specific project.

Can I request custom features or modifications?

Yes. Because our pieces are made to order, we can accommodate a wide range of adjustments, including sizing, configuration, and select design details.

All custom requests are reviewed for structural integrity. For true one-off designs that have not been built before, certain functional details may be refined during the build process. Pricing may vary depending on the scope of modifications.

If you’re considering a custom change, we’re happy to review your ideas and confirm what’s possible.

Sizing and Fit

How do I choose the right size table or island?

We’re happy to offer guidance based on the dimensions and layout you provide, including recommended clearances and seating capacity.

Because we are not physically present in your space, final sizing decisions must be confirmed by the client prior to production. We recommend measuring carefully and considering walkways, doorways, and overall room layout before placing your order.

What if I measured wrong?

We recommend double-checking all measurements before ordering. Because each piece is made to order, changes after production begins may not be possible.

Clients are responsible for confirming that the piece will fit through entryways, stairwells, and elevators prior to delivery.

Shipping and Delivery

Do you ship outside the U.S.?

We currently ship within the contiguous United States. At this time, we do not ship to Alaska, Hawaii, or internationally.

Do you offer delivery?

Yes. We offer white glove delivery throughout most of New England and the NYC metro area using our own team. This includes in-home placement and removal of packaging.

For areas outside of our local delivery region, freight (curbside) shipping is our standard method. Pieces are carefully flat-packed on a pallet to ensure safe transit.

In some locations, we are able to coordinate independent carriers who provide blanket-wrapped, room-of-choice delivery. Availability varies by location and route, and additional fees may apply.

If you require white glove delivery outside our local region, please contact us prior to purchasing so we can confirm availability and provide a quote.

Can I pick up my order instead?

Yes. Pickup is available from our Waterbury, CT workshop Monday-Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM. We’ll coordinate with you once your piece is ready.

How do “In-Stock” items work?

In-stock items ship within 3-5 business days and follow our standard shipping and return policies. If purchased with a made-to-order item, they will ship separately.

What should I expect on delivery day?

Delivery expectations vary depending on the shipping method selected.

Local White Glove Delivery (New England & NYC Metro)

Our NTC team will typically deliver your piece directly into your home between 8 AM and 4 PM. We coordinate delivery windows in advance. You will receive a text approximately 30 minutes prior to arrival. Delivery includes in-home placement and removal of packaging materials. Please ensure pathways are clear prior to arrival.

Freight (Curbside) Delivery

Freight is curbside only. Your piece will arrive flat-packed on a pallet and delivered by a large truck equipped with a liftgate. The driver will lower the pallet to the ground at the closest accessible point to the road, typically the end of a driveway.

Drivers are not permitted to enter homes or assist with moving the piece inside. You will need an additional set of hands available to bring the item indoors. Residential freight deliveries are scheduled in advance and may include a multi-hour delivery window.

Independent Carrier (Blanket-Wrapped)

When available, independent carriers provide blanket-wrapped transport and may offer in-home placement. Service level depends on the individual driver and route schedule. The driver will contact you directly to coordinate delivery timing.

Important

Inspect your piece thoroughly before signing any delivery paperwork. If there is visible damage, note it clearly on the delivery receipt and take photos. Contact us within 24 hours so we can assist with resolution. We are unable to assist with freight damage claims if damage is not documented at the time of delivery.

Assembly and Care

Will I need to assemble my piece?

Most items arrive fully assembled. Freight-shipped items may arrive flat-packed on a pallet. If minor assembly is required, such as attaching legs, all necessary hardware and instructions will be provided.

How do I care for my wood furniture?

Dust regularly with a soft cloth and avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners. For occasional deeper cleaning, use a mild soap and soft cloth.

Over time, finishes may be refreshed as part of normal maintenance.

Best practices:

  • Avoid wet cloths or abrasive products
  • Wipe spills promptly
  • Do not use bleach, ammonia, or oven cleaners
  • Avoid placing heat-producing items directly on wood surfaces
  • Use placemats and coasters to prevent marks

Returns and Damages

Can I return or cancel my order?

Because each piece is made to order, all sales are final. For full details, please see our Return Policy.

What if my piece arrives damaged?

Inspect your piece at delivery. If anything appears damaged, note it with the shipper, take photos, and contact us within 24 hours. We will work with you to resolve the issue. Additional details can be found in our Terms & Conditions and Shipping & Delivery pages.

Trade and Commercial Orders

Do you work with designers or trade professionals?

Yes. We regularly collaborate with interior designers and trade clients. You can apply for trade access or contact us directly to discuss your project.

Can you accommodate large or repeat orders?

Yes. We’ve built for restaurants, boutiques, offices, and repeat residential clients. Reach out to discuss your specific needs.

Ordering and Payment

How do I place an order?

Orders can be placed directly through our website or Etsy shop. For custom projects, we provide direct invoicing through Square.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards, ACH transfers, and payments processed through Etsy, Square and Shopify.

Do I need to put down a deposit?

Website and Etsy purchases require full payment at checkout.

For custom projects invoiced directly, a 50% deposit secures your place in our production schedule. The remaining balance is due once completion photos are approved, prior to shipping.

Is my payment secure?

Yes. Payments are processed through trusted third-party providers including Square, Etsy, and Shopify Payments.

About NTCo.

Where are your pieces made?

All pieces are handcrafted in Connecticut using solid American hardwoods.

Do you have a showroom?

We do not currently operate a showroom. Clients are welcome to visit our Waterbury workshop by appointment. We’re also happy to share additional photos or schedule a call.

Miscellaneous

Can you match a style I saw elsewhere?

Send us an inspiration photo and we can typically create something similar, interpreted through our own craftsmanship and construction methods.

Can I customize a piece I saw on your site?

Yes. Most pieces can be adjusted in size, finish, or select design details.