The Curious Case of McKinnon Furniture: Did They Disappear in a Puff of Sawdust?
Have you been searching high and low for McKinnon Furniture, that bastion of beautiful, handcrafted wood pieces in Seattle? Did you used to love browsing their showroom, running your fingers over the smooth surfaces and dreaming of that perfect coffee table? Well, my friend, you might be in for a slight surprise. Buckle up, because this story involves a plot twist that's more exciting than accidentally gluing your fingers together during a DIY project (we've all been there).
From Humble Beginnings to Seattle Success Story
McKinnon Furniture started as a dream between two college friends, Sheila McKinnon and Theresa Schneider. They ditched the stuffy world of law and lobbying in D.C. and headed west, lured by the siren song of sawdust and craftsmanship. For 25 glorious years, they built a reputation for top-notch, solid wood furniture made with love (and probably a lot of elbow grease).
A New Chapter: The Great Ownership Shuffle
But even the sturdiest furniture needs a bit of TLC now and then. In 2010, Sheila and Theresa decided it was time to pass the torch. Enter Gary and Susan Strand, a couple ready to embark on a new adventure. Gary, a seasoned banker with a head for numbers, joined forces with Susan to continue the McKinnon legacy.
Fun Fact: Gary probably used his banking skills to ensure McKinnon Furniture offered the best possible prices, keeping that handcrafted goodness affordable!
So, Where'd McKinnon Furniture Go?
Now, here's the twist. McKinnon Furniture, as we knew it, no longer exists as a separate store. But fear not, lovers of lovely furniture! The good news is that the tradition of exceptional craftsmanship lives on.
They've merged their expertise with Tired Furniture, another Seattle gem specializing in handcrafted pieces. This means you can still find beautiful wood furniture made with care, just not under the McKinnon Furniture banner.
Think of it as a superhero team-up! McKinnon's craftsmanship meets Tired Furniture's knowledge, creating an unstoppable force for all your furniture needs.
FAQ: McKinnon Furniture and Beyond
Still got some lingering sawdust-related questions? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Here's a quick FAQ to set your furniture-loving mind at ease:
How to find handcrafted furniture in Seattle now that McKinnon Furniture is gone?
Head over to Tired Furniture! They've incorporated McKinnon's magic touch, so you'll still find those beautiful, locally-made pieces.
How can I tell the difference between handcrafted and mass-produced furniture?
Look for solid wood construction, unique details, and slight variations in pieces – that's the beauty of handmade furniture!
How do I care for solid wood furniture?
Regular dusting, avoiding harsh chemicals, and using coasters are your best friends. Treat your furniture with love, and it'll love you back for years to come.
How can I get started with my own DIY furniture project (without accidentally gluing myself in the process)?
Start small! Find a simple project online, gather your tools, and take your time. Maybe skip the industrial-strength glue for the first attempt.
How do I know if I should buy a new piece of furniture or refinish an old one?
Consider the condition of the old piece and your DIY skills. If it's a family heirloom or in good shape, refinishing could be a fun adventure. For more damaged pieces, a new addition might be the way to go.