CroFurniture
It stirs a sense of pride when manufacturers are able to sign off on extensive contracts, even more so when their products will leave the country and are being exported to neighboring European countries and other foreign destinations.
The international trade of quality furniture is of the upmost importance to the Republic of Croatia. It provides steady employment for the many workers involved in the wood and forestry industry, as well as the actual furniture manufacturing sector. Export will boost the country’s finances, and in addition, helps restore its economy, which has suffered greatly due to the war.
As difficult as it may seem for a small nation such as Croatia to compete and grow in the world’s giant furniture market, it certainly is well on its way to making an impressive mark with the production of unique and superior, yet affordable creations, such as office fixtures, kitchen furniture, seating, upholstered furniture, bedroom sets, and other spectacular original, and designer furnishings.
A comprehensive picture of Croatia’s furniture export sector shows that many key manufacturers and distributors are involved, as well as smaller individual woodworking companies, who may just have a handful of employees, and only sell their products across the border. In the end they all count and contribute to the country’s export and help stimulate the steadily growing economy.
Antique pine furniture and reproductions
A favorite for many centuries, the exclusive appearance of this knotty, light-colored timber has set itself graciously apart from darker and more traditional woods. Known as “pine,” this material has been, and still is, frequently used to build beautiful and comfortable furniture. These distinct pieces are repeatedly chosen by select decorators to give many rooms a preferred casual, rustic or country-style feel.
When purchasing pine furniture, take the various types of pine into consideration. Be it spruce, white pine, or fir, today, one can buy virtually any type of furniture in any of the various pine varieties. When at the shop, check the number of stains and colors which are presented and consider how they will fit in your home or office decor. Pay attention to the true character of the grain and verify that the wood is well preserved.
In the world of antique pine woodworking, many furniture builders will salvage the aged lumber from demolition sites, large-scale renovations, or larger furniture pieces that are beyond restoration. This means that, even if your Welsh dresser was only recently constructed, the storage unit may still be considered an antique, and almost as valuable as an original, dating back to the nineteenth century. In this case, the word “reproduction” may be subjective, and imply that the item may be a “look-alike,” rather than a “fake”.
Like with all natural wood, both new and antique pine furniture must be well maintained. The soft wood has a malleable texture and is easily susceptible to dents or scratches. Even if your furniture piece already contains obvious natural imperfections, which you may feel adds character you definitely do not want to add additional damage. Polish, wax or lacquer pine furniture when damaged or slightly discolored, and protect it by using general wood care products for daily maintenance. Furthermore, keep your furniture away from windows and vents, and try to avoid extreme temperatures, or lingering exposure to moisture. Taking good care of your timeless and original furniture pieces will keep them in fantastic shape, and will allow you to enjoy them for many years to come.