Canadian-made from solid wood.
Based in Wallenstein, Ontario, Handstone began their business in 1999 and remains family-owned to this day. By combining new and old, they stay ahead of the curve and always build standout pieces. They still hand-select the cherry, maple, and red oak used for their custom solid wood pieces, but now use a CAD (computer-aided design) system to ensure every piece is designed with precision. The wood is still hand-sanded, but now the finish is applied using advanced technologies like post-catalyzed vinyl sealers and post-catalyzed conversion varnish. Investing in state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment is important to Handstone – almost as much as the attention to detail that comes with quality craftsmanship.
100% Canadian Sourced
One of Handstone's most important initiatives is sustainability. They source all their raw materials from Canadian forests, and all the craftspeople are local. This boosts the Canadian economy and gives money back to the community.
By building furniture that lasts for generations, instead of replacing cheaper pieces every few years, less waste ends up in landfills. The sawdust created during manufacturing is recycled for livestock bedding, and the scrap wood is used to heat homes. Used solvents are recycled to reduce the waste sent to MOE (Ministry of the Environment) certified processors. Additionally, the finishing process uses solar heat and cogeneration to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
It's In the Details
The Handstone finishing process is the key to the colour difference you’ll see with the finished products. The raw material is carefully inspected to ensure there are no imperfections before applying the colour. Once the dye is sprayed, it is hand wiped to create an even colour. The sealer is colour matched and post-catalyzed, and then the varnish is post-catalyzed as well. This means that a reaction is created between the sealer and varnish, causing a tight bind on the molecular level between the two – making the finish durable and chemical resistant.
Handstone’s Collections range from rustic to contemporary, and can include details like English dovetail drawers and touch dimmer lighting. The Laguna Collection features eclectic metal work fused with solid wood to create a sense of calm, while venturing away from the ordinary. The Rafters Collection embodies a rustic design; clean lines, battered iron handles, and inspired by barn timber, this collection is bold and comforting.
