The Complete Buyer's Guide to Custom Board Game Tables

Custom Means Comfort

When people hear the words custom furniture, they often think about choices.

Different wood species.

Different stain colours.

Different sizes.

Different legs.

Different accessories.

Those things certainly matter.

But after nearly three decades of fine carpentry, woodworking and building furniture, I've come to believe that custom anything isn't really about having more options.

It's about having fewer compromises.

That's a very different idea.

Many furniture companies ask you to build your table by choosing from a menu.

You select one tabletop.

One base.

One finish.

One size.

One felt/neoprene colour.

Eventually you arrive at something that is close to what you had imagined.

For many people, that's perfectly acceptable.

But I believe there is often one question that quietly lingers in the back of their mind.

"I wonder if I should have done something different?"

That feeling is what I want to help people avoid.

At Western Pride Woodworks, every custom project begins with a conversation.

Not a catalogue.

Not a price list.

A conversation.

Before we discuss wood species or accessories, I want to understand the people who will actually live with the furniture.

How many people usually gather around the table?

What games do you enjoy?

Will this also be your dining table?

Do you host large family dinners?

Will children be using it?

Is accessibility an important consideration?

How do you want the room to feel when people walk into it?

Those answers shape the project far more than choosing between black walnut and white oak ever will.

One of the greatest advantages of true custom furniture is that every decision supports your lifestyle rather than asking your lifestyle to adapt to the furniture.

Perhaps you need slightly narrower topper panels because someone in your household has limited mobility.

Perhaps your room needs a specific table length to maintain comfortable walkways.

Perhaps your favourite games require a deeper gaming vault or larger playing area than average.

Perhaps you've imagined a particular detail that you've never seen offered anywhere else.

Those aren't obstacles.

They're opportunities to build something that belongs uniquely to you.

One of my favourite moments in every project is when a client says,

"I've always wanted..."

Sometimes they stop halfway through the sentence because they assume the idea isn't possible.

My response is usually the same.

"Let's explore it."

That doesn't always mean every idea is practical, but it does mean every idea deserves consideration.

That's the difference between selecting furniture and designing furniture.

A custom board game table should feel like it was always meant to be part of your home.

When friends visit, it shouldn't look like a gaming table that happens to fit the room.

It should look like a beautiful piece of handcrafted furniture that just happens to transform into an incredible gaming experience.

That balance between beauty and function is one of the things I enjoy most about designing these tables.

When it's done well, neither feature competes with the other.

They work together.

Custom furniture also gives you something that is difficult to place a price on.

Confidence.

Confidence that the dimensions fit your room.

Confidence that the wood reflects your style.

Confidence that the finish suits your family.

Confidence that the accessories support the way you actually play.

Confidence that years from now you won't be wondering if you should have chosen something different.

That peace of mind is one of the greatest values true custom furniture can provide.

People sometimes ask me if unlimited customization makes the process more complicated.

My answer surprises them.

I actually believe it makes the process simpler.

Instead of trying to force your vision into a list of predetermined options, we simply start with your vision.

From there, every decision has a purpose.

Every feature solves a problem.

Every detail belongs.

The result isn't just a custom table.

It's your table.

For me, the goal has never been to build the most tables.

The goal is to build the right table for each client.

Sometimes that means recommending a simpler design.

Sometimes it means suggesting a different wood species than the client originally expected.

Sometimes it means advising someone to wait until they're certain about what they want.

There is no pressure to rush those decisions.

Furniture built for generations deserves thoughtful planning.

If there's one idea I'd like you to remember from this chapter, it's this.

Custom furniture isn't valuable because it's different.

It's valuable because it reflects the people who will live with it.

Every decision should make the table feel more personal, more functional, and more meaningful.

When that happens, something interesting occurs.

The furniture no longer feels like a purchase.

It feels like it has always belonged in your home.

That's what I mean when I say...

Custom is comfort.

Craftsman's Thought

Some of the most rewarding projects I've ever completed weren't the most elaborate.

They were the ones where a client looked at the finished piece and quietly said,

"This is exactly what I imagined."

That's always the goal.

Not to build the table I would choose.

To build the table you hoped existed before we ever met.

Before You Move On

If you remember only one thing from this chapter, let it be this:

The purpose of custom furniture isn't to give you more choices. It's to remove the compromises that stand between your vision and the finished piece.

Before any design takes shape, every project begins with understanding the people it is being built for. If you'd like to learn more about that philosophy, I invite you to read Why Great Furniture Begins With Listening.

If you're curious about the philosophy that guides every Western Pride Woodworks project, I'd also invite you to Meet the Craftsman and learn more about my approach to custom furniture.

Custom vs. Mass-Produced Board Game Tables

When people begin shopping for a board game table, one of the first things they notice is how wide the price range can be.

Some tables are built in large production facilities.

Others are handcrafted one at a time by independent furniture makers.

Neither approach exists by accident.

They simply begin with different priorities.

Understanding those priorities can help you decide which type of table is right for your home, your budget, and the way you plan to use it.

Mass-produced furniture is designed around efficiency.

That isn't a criticism it's simply how large-scale manufacturing works.

Standard sizes allow materials to be ordered in bulk.

Predetermined options simplify production.

Repeatable processes reduce costs and shorten lead times.

For many types of furniture, that's a practical and sensible approach.

If you're furnishing a rental property, replacing a damaged table, or working within a tight budget, a production-built piece may be exactly what you need.

The important thing is understanding what you're buying.

Custom furniture begins with a completely different question.

Instead of asking,

"How can we build this table more efficiently?"

A custom craftsman asks,

"How can we build the right table for this client?"

That subtle difference changes almost every decision that follows.

Dimensions are adjusted to suit the room.

Features are chosen because they'll actually be used.

Wood species are selected to match both the home's style and the client's vision.

Nothing is added simply because it's part of a standard package.

Every detail has a purpose.

One of the greatest advantages of working with a custom builder is flexibility.

Your home isn't identical to anyone else's.

Your gaming group isn't identical to anyone else's.

The way you entertain, the games you enjoy, and the way you use your dining space are all uniquely yours.

Your furniture should reflect that.

Instead of asking you to adapt to predetermined options, true custom furniture adapts to you.

That's one of the reasons I believe custom furniture feels so comfortable to live with.

It was designed around your life from the very beginning.

Another important difference is who actually builds the table.

In many production environments, different stages of the project are completed by different people.

One person mills lumber.

Another assembles components.

Another sands.

Another applies the finish.

Each person plays an important role, but they may only ever see one small part of the project.

At Western Pride Woodworks, every table is personally built from start to finish by me.

That continuity allows every decision to be made with the finished piece in mind rather than simply completing the next production step.

I know every board.

Every joint.

Every panel.

Every detail.

That level of familiarity is difficult to achieve in an assembly-line environment.

The materials themselves can also differ significantly.

Many mass-produced furniture pieces rely on engineered products such as MDF, particleboard, veneers, or laminates.

Those materials certainly have appropriate applications, and they help make furniture more affordable for many households.

My preference has always been solid Canadian hardwood.

Solid hardwood ages gracefully.

It can often be repaired.

It can frequently be refinished.

And with proper care, it can remain beautiful for generations.

That's one of the reasons I continue building the way I do.

Perhaps the biggest difference, however, isn't something you'll immediately see.

It's time.

A production facility measures success by consistency and efficiency.

A custom workshop measures success by craftsmanship.

That means slowing down when a detail deserves more attention.

It means adjusting a design rather than forcing it to fit a standard process.

It means waiting for a finish to cure properly instead of rushing to the next stage.

It means accepting that the best furniture is rarely the fastest furniture to build.

People sometimes ask whether custom furniture is "worth it."

I don't believe that's the right question.

The better question is,

"What do you want this table to become?"

If you're looking for a table that simply provides a place to play games, there are many excellent options available.

If you're looking for a piece that reflects your home, your personality, and your vision while becoming part of your family's traditions for decades to come, custom furniture offers something that cannot be replicated by standard production.

Neither answer is wrong.

They're simply different goals.

One of the things I appreciate most about custom woodworking is that no two projects are exactly alike.

Every client teaches me something.

Every design presents a new opportunity to solve a unique challenge.

That's one of the reasons I still enjoy coming into the workshop every morning after nearly three decades.

There is always something new to create.

When you're comparing builders, don't focus only on price.

Ask questions.

Who is actually building the furniture?

Where is it being built?

What materials are being used?

Can the table be repaired decades from now?

Will the builder still be proud of it twenty years from today?

Those answers often tell you far more than a specification sheet ever will.

Craftsman's Thought

I've never believed that custom furniture has to compete with mass-produced furniture.

They simply exist to serve different purposes.

My responsibility isn't to convince you that one approach is better than the other.

It's to build the very best table I can for the people who choose to trust me with their project.

That's always been enough.

Continue Reading

If you'd like to learn more about why craftsmanship begins long before the first board is ever cut, I invite you to read Why Craftsmanship Begins Before the First Cut.

Every project also reflects lessons learned over nearly three decades in the workshop. You can read more about that journey in Why time is one of the most important material in my workshop

Choosing the Right Size

One of the first questions people ask me is,

"What size board game table should I build?"

The honest answer is...

There isn't one perfect size.

There is only the size that's right for the people who will gather around it.

That's why I never begin by asking what games you play.

I begin by asking about your home and your life.

How many people usually sit around the table?

Will it also be your dining table?

Do you host family gatherings?

Do you enjoy larger game nights?

How much space do you have available?

Those answers almost always determine the ideal size long before we begin discussing dimension

One of the biggest mistakes people make is choosing a table based only on the largest gathering they expect to host.

It's understandable.

Everyone imagines holiday dinners, birthdays, or the occasional game night with eight friends.

But those events may happen only a handful of times each year.

The people sitting around your table every week are the ones who matter most when choosing its everyday size.

Furniture should be designed around the life you actually live—not just the biggest occasion on your calendar.

A board game table should never dominate the room.

Beautiful furniture creates a sense of balance.

People should be able to move comfortably around it without feeling crowded.

Chairs should slide out easily.

Walkways should remain open.

The room should still feel welcoming, whether you're hosting a game night or simply enjoying a quiet dinner.

Sometimes a slightly smaller table creates a much better experience than the largest one that technically fits.

Comfort always comes before capacity.

That's one of the reasons every project begins with understanding your space.

Dimensions on paper only tell part of the story.

A room has its own personality.

Ceiling height.

Natural light.

Traffic flow.

Nearby furniture.

Doorways.

Windows.

All of these influence how a table feels once it's in place.

A custom table should feel like it belongs in the room rather than simply fitting inside it.

Another important consideration is how you plan to use the table throughout the year.

For some families, the board game table becomes the primary dining table.

Others use it exclusively for gaming.

Many people enjoy a combination of both.

Those different lifestyles naturally influence the ideal dimensions.

A table that comfortably seats six people for dinner may be perfect for weekly family use while still providing plenty of space for most modern board games.

Larger gaming groups may benefit from additional length or width, but that doesn't necessarily mean every client needs the largest table possible.

One of my favourite solutions for clients who occasionally host larger gatherings is an extendable board game table.

This allows the table to remain perfectly sized for everyday use while offering the flexibility to accommodate additional guests when needed.

Whether it's Christmas dinner, Thanksgiving, a birthday celebration, or a larger game night, extension leaves provide extra seating without requiring the table to permanently occupy more space than necessary.

For many homes, it's the best of both worlds.

Everyday comfort.

Occasional flexibility.

That's one of the advantages of true custom furniture.

Instead of forcing your lifestyle to fit a standard size, the table is designed to adapt as your needs change.

Future planning is another detail that's often overlooked.

Your needs today may not be your needs ten years from now.

Perhaps your children are still young.

Perhaps your gaming group continues to grow.

Perhaps you'll eventually move into a different home.

These aren't reasons to overbuild a table today, but they are worthwhile conversations during the design process.

Sometimes a small adjustment in size today can allow the table to serve your family beautifully for decades.

Accessibility is another important part of choosing the right size.

Comfort isn't just about seating capacity.

It's about ensuring everyone can enjoy the table with ease.

Adequate legroom.

Comfortable armrest widths.

Easy access to topper panels.

Thoughtful clearances around the table.

These details often matter far more than adding another seat.

A custom table gives us the opportunity to design around the people who will actually use it rather than expecting people to adapt to the furniture.

One question I encourage every client to ask themselves is surprisingly simple.

"Where will we spend the most time?"

If the answer is family dinners...

Let's build around that.

If the answer is weekly game nights...

Let's build around that.

If the answer is both...

Then let's design a table that does both exceptionally well.

The right table isn't determined by a catalogue.

It's determined by your life.

When clients ask me what size I recommend, they're often surprised by my answer.

I don't recommend a size.

I recommend a conversation.

Once I understand how you live, how you gather, and what you hope the table will become, the right dimensions usually reveal themselves naturally.

That's one of the greatest advantages of custom furniture.

The design grows from the people—not the other way around.

Craftsman's Thought

I've always believed that good furniture should feel effortless to live with.

When the size is right, people don't think about dimensions.

They simply enjoy being together.

To me, that's one of the best compliments a custom table can receive.

Before You Move On

If you remember only one thing from this chapter, let it be this:

The right board game table isn't the biggest one you can build. It's the one that feels perfectly at home in your life, your room, and the moments you'll share around it.

Continue Reading

Now that we've explored choosing the right size, the next step is selecting the wood that will shape both the character and longevity of your table.

Every conversation about dimensions begins with understanding how you live. If you'd like to learn more about why listening comes before designing, I invite you to read Why Great Furniture Begins With Listening.

Choosing the Best Wood Species

One of the most enjoyable parts of designing a custom board game table is choosing the wood it will be built from.

It's also one of the questions I'm asked most often.

"Which wood is the best?"

The honest answer is...

There isn't one best wood species.

There is only the one that's right for your home, your style, and the story you want your furniture to tell.

Every hardwood has its own personality.

Some are bold.

Some are quiet.

Some darken beautifully with age.

Others become lighter and warmer over time.

Choosing the right wood isn't about finding the "best" one.

It's about finding the one that feels like it belongs in your home.

One of the reasons I enjoy working with Canadian hardwoods so much is that no two boards are ever exactly alike.

Nature doesn't make duplicates.

Every grain pattern, every mineral streak and every colour variation tells part of the tree's story.

Rather than trying to hide those natural characteristics, I believe they should be celebrated.

They're what make solid wood furniture feel alive.

Years from now, you'll recognize your table instantly because no other one will ever look exactly like it.

Black Walnut

For many people, Black Walnut is the wood they immediately fall in love with.

Rich chocolate browns.

Flowing grain.

Natural warmth.

It has a quiet elegance that never feels overly formal.

As Black Walnut ages, it develops even more character, making it one of my favourite choices for board game tables where families hope to create memories for generations.

It's luxurious without being flashy.

Timeless rather than trendy.

If you've ever looked at a piece of furniture and simply thought,

"Wow..."

there's a good chance it was Black Walnut.

White Oak

White Oak has a completely different personality.

Strong.

Confident.

Clean.

Its beautiful grain makes it equally at home in modern homes, traditional spaces and everything in between.

White Oak is an excellent choice for families looking for exceptional durability while maintaining a bright, welcoming feel.

It also accepts a wide variety of finishes beautifully, allowing tremendous flexibility in the final appearance.

Hard Maple

Hard Maple is one of Canada's great hardwoods.

Its clean appearance and subtle grain create a bright, contemporary feel that works beautifully in many homes.

Because of its durability, it's an excellent choice for families who expect many years of active use.

Hard Maple also provides an outstanding canvas for custom colours when clients are looking for something unique while still enjoying the strength of solid hardwood.

Cherry

Cherry has always been one of my favourite woods because it rewards patience.

Freshly milled Cherry begins with warm reddish tones that gradually deepen over time as it is exposed to light.

The transformation is slow.

Almost unnoticed from one week to the next.

But after several years, the wood develops a rich warmth that simply cannot be manufactured.

It's one of nature's reminders that beautiful things often become even more beautiful with age.

Ash

Ash is sometimes overlooked, and I think that's unfortunate.

Its bold grain creates tremendous visual interest while maintaining a bright, inviting appearance.

Ash is incredibly versatile and has been used for generations in everything from fine furniture to baseball bats because of its excellent strength.

For clients looking for something distinctive without becoming overly dramatic, Ash deserves serious consideration.

Red Oak

Red Oak has been trusted in furniture making for generations.

Its pronounced grain creates a classic appearance that many people immediately recognize.

When thoughtfully finished, Red Oak offers warmth, durability and timeless appeal at a price point that often represents excellent value.

Like every hardwood, it has its own personality.

The key is deciding whether that personality fits the style of your home.

One question I hear quite often is,

"Which wood lasts the longest?"

The truth is...

Every hardwood I choose is capable of lasting for generations when properly built and cared for.

The bigger difference isn't usually the wood itself.

It's the craftsmanship.

Thoughtful joinery.

Quality finishing.

Proper construction.

Those are the things that allow solid hardwood furniture to be enjoyed for decades.

Choosing between Walnut and White Oak isn't choosing between "good" and "better."

It's choosing the character you want your furniture to have.

Another important thing to remember is that wood is a natural material.

It moves with changes in humidity.

It expands and contracts slightly with the seasons.

That's perfectly normal.

In fact, it's one of the reasons experienced furniture makers build differently than cabinet makers.

A well-designed solid wood table is built with those natural movements in mind.

Rather than fighting nature, we work with it.

Understanding that relationship is one of the foundations of heirloom furniture.

At Western Pride Woodworks, I never encourage clients to choose a species simply because it's popular.

Popularity changes.

Good design doesn't.

The right hardwood is the one that makes you smile every time you see it.

Years from now, I hope your table still catches your eye exactly the way it did the day it arrived.

That's the beauty of solid hardwood.

It doesn't simply age.

It develops character right alongside the memories created around it.

Craftsman's Tip

Don't choose a wood species because someone else tells you it's the "best."

Choose the one that makes you stop, look a little longer, and imagine it in your home.

You'll never regret building furniture you genuinely love looking at.

Craftsman's Thought

I've worked with every hardwood discussed in this chapter, and I still enjoy seeing each one come to life.

No matter the species, my favourite moment is applying the finish for the first time.

Watching the grain reveal itself never gets old.

It's one of those quiet reminders that nature was always the first craftsman.

Before You Move On

If you remember only one thing from this chapter, let it be this:

The best wood species isn't determined by a chart or a trend. It's the one that feels at home in your life and continues to bring you joy long after the furniture has become part of your everyday routine.

Continue Reading

If you'd like to explore each Canadian hardwood in greater detail, including grain patterns, durability and design inspiration, I invite you to visit my Canadian Hardwood Guide.

One of the greatest environmental benefits of solid hardwood furniture is its ability to last for generations. We'll explore that idea in more detail in Built for Generations, Not Landfills later in this guide.

Understanding Board Game Table Features

One of the most exciting parts of designing a custom board game table is deciding which features will become part of the finished piece.

It's also one of the easiest places to become overwhelmed.

As you begin researching, you'll quickly discover tables offering recessed gaming areas, topper panels, cup holders, accessory rails, lighting systems, power outlets, storage solutions and dozens of other options.

It's easy to assume that more features automatically create a better table.

In my experience, that's rarely the case.

The best board game tables aren't defined by how many features they include.

They're defined by how thoughtfully those features solve real problems.

Every feature should have a purpose.

If it doesn't improve the experience of living with the table, it probably doesn't belong there.

The Recessed Gaming Vault

Every Western Pride Woodworks board game table is built around a recessed gaming vault.

For me, it isn't an optional upgrade.

It's one of the defining features that transforms a beautiful dining table into a truly functional board game table.

If you've ever reached the end of an evening and realized your game isn't finished, you'll immediately understand why.

Without a gaming vault, the only choices are usually to pack everything away or leave the game spread across the dining table.

Neither is ideal.

A recessed gaming vault changes that completely.

Simply replace the topper panels, enjoy dinner with family or friends, and continue exactly where you left off when you're ready.

Life doesn't always fit neatly into a single evening.

A good board game table shouldn't expect it to.

Dining Topper Panels

Topper panels often receive less attention than the gaming vault itself, but they're one of the most important parts of the entire design.

They allow a board game table to become beautiful everyday furniture whenever the gaming area isn't being used.

For many families, that flexibility is what makes owning a board game table practical.

Dinner can be served while a campaign remains safely underneath.

A puzzle can stay exactly where it is.

Children can return to a game the following day without anything being disturbed.

The table quietly adapts to whatever the day requires.

That's exactly what great furniture should do.

A Comfortable Playing Experience

Some of the best features are the ones people barely notice.

Comfortable armrests.

Thoughtful seating height.

A gaming vault designed at the proper depth.

A playing surface that's easy to reach without straining.

These details rarely appear in flashy advertisements, yet they often determine whether people enjoy spending four or five hours around the table.

Good design doesn't ask people to adapt.

It adapts to the people using it.

Cup Holders

Every experienced gamer has seen it happen.

Someone reaches across the table with a drink.

Everyone instinctively holds their breath.

Fortunately, most disasters never happen.

But the possibility is always there.

Cup holders are a simple feature with an important purpose.

They help keep drinks safely away from game boards, cards and playing pieces while making longer gaming sessions more comfortable.

Like every other feature, they aren't included because they look impressive.

They're included because they solve a very real problem.

A Hidden Mechanical Accessory Rail

As I continued building board game tables, I found myself asking a simple question.

"Could accessories become a more natural part of the table?"

That question eventually led to the development of my hidden mechanical accessory rail system.

Rather than relying on visible hardware or accessories that simply rest on the edge of the table, the hidden rail provides a secure mechanical connection while remaining completely concealed during everyday use.

When no accessories are attached, the table looks like a beautifully handcrafted dining table.

When game night begins, accessories can be added exactly where they're needed.

To me, that's how good design should work.

The engineering quietly supports the experience without drawing attention to itself.

Neoprene Gaming Surfaces

A quality gaming surface does far more than improve appearance.

It makes picking up cards easier.

It protects delicate game components.

It reduces noise during play.

It creates a more enjoyable experience for everyone gathered around the table.

For many clients, a neoprene gaming surface quickly becomes one of their favourite features because it's something they appreciate every time they sit down to play.

Extendable Board Game Tables: Do You Really Need One?

One of the advantages of custom furniture is that the table can evolve to suit the way you live.

For some families, that means incorporating extension leaves that allow the table to grow when additional seating is needed.

It's an excellent solution...

for the right home.

If your dining room comfortably seats four or six people throughout most of the year but occasionally hosts larger family gatherings during the holidays, an extendable board game table can provide the best of both worlds.

The table remains perfectly proportioned for everyday life while offering the flexibility to welcome additional guests when those special occasions arrive.

For many families, that's exactly the right answer.

That said, I don't recommend extension leaves simply because they're available.

They add complexity to the build.

They increase the overall investment.

And unlike a traditional dining table leaf, board game table extension leaves are substantial handcrafted pieces that also require appropriate storage space when they're not in use.

Before recommending an extendable design, I always encourage clients to think about how often they'll realistically use that additional seating.

If larger gatherings happen only once every few years, a fixed-size table may be the simpler and more practical solution.

If your home regularly welcomes extended family and friends, an extendable design may be one of the most valuable features you can choose.

Like every custom decision, there isn't one right answer.

Only the answer that's right for the way you live.

Which Features Do You Actually Need?

One question I hear quite often is,

"Should I include every available feature?"

My answer is usually...

Probably not.

The best custom board game table isn't the one with the longest list of accessories.

It's the one where every feature has a purpose.

If your family enjoys casual board games around the dining table, you may never need elaborate accessories.

If you host weekly role-playing campaigns, dedicated accessory locations may dramatically improve your experience.

If your table serves as both dining table and gaming table, topper panels and a recessed gaming vault become incredibly valuable.

The goal isn't to add more.

The goal is to choose thoughtfully.

Every feature should earn its place.

Craftsman's Tip

Whenever I'm helping someone design a custom board game table, I ask one simple question.

"What problem are we trying to solve?"

If a feature genuinely improves the way you'll use the table, it's probably worth considering.

If it doesn't, there's no reason to include it simply because someone else has it.

The best custom furniture isn't the one with the most features.

It's the one where every feature makes sense.

Craftsman's Thought

Some of my favourite design decisions are the ones people never notice.

A slightly more comfortable armrest.

A gaming vault that's just the right depth.

A hidden rail that disappears when it isn't needed.

Those quiet details rarely attract attention, but they're often the reason a table feels so enjoyable to live with for years to come.

To me, that's where craftsmanship lives.

Before You Move On

If you remember only one thing from this chapter, let it be this:

A great board game table isn't defined by the number of features it includes. It's defined by how well each feature serves the people who gather around it.

If you'd like to see how these ideas come together in real projects, you're welcome to explore my Board Game Tables gallery and discover what's possible through true custom design.

Why Great Furniture Takes Time

One of the questions I'm asked most often is,

"How long will my custom board game table take to build?"

It's a fair question.

When you're excited about a project, waiting can feel difficult.

I completely understand that.

The answer, however, isn't really found on a calendar.

It's found in the work itself.

Every custom board game table is made up of hundreds of individual decisions, each one contributing to the finished piece you'll hopefully enjoy for decades.

Some of those decisions happen in minutes.

Others simply can't be rushed.

That's the nature of fine craftsmanship.

One of the things I enjoy most about custom woodworking is that every project begins differently.

Some clients arrive with detailed sketches.

Others have only a rough idea of what they're hoping to create.

Neither approach is better than the other.

That's why I never rush the early conversations.

The time spent listening often saves far more time later by ensuring we're building the right table from the very beginning.

Good furniture doesn't begin with cutting lumber.

It begins with understanding the people who will live with it.

Once the design has been finalized, the real work begins.

Every board must be carefully selected.

Wood isn't a manufactured product.

Every piece has its own grain, colour variation and character.

Choosing boards that work beautifully together is one of the quiet parts of craftsmanship that most people never see, yet it has a tremendous impact on the finished table.

It's a process that rewards patience rather than speed

Joinery is another stage where time matters.

Strong furniture isn't held together by luck.

It's built through careful planning, precise machining and repeated test fitting.

Sometimes a joint fits perfectly the first time.

Sometimes it deserves another adjustment before moving forward.

Those extra moments are rarely visible once the table is complete, but they're often the reason the furniture remains solid decades later.

The goal isn't simply to make the pieces fit.

The goal is to make them fit beautifully.

Wood also has a life of its own.

Solid hardwood naturally expands and contracts with seasonal changes in humidity.

Rather than trying to prevent that movement, experienced furniture makers design with it in mind.

Allowing wood to behave naturally is one of the reasons heirloom-quality furniture can continue serving families for generations.

Nature doesn't work on deadlines.

Neither should good craftsmanship.

Finishing is another stage that simply cannot be rushed.

A beautiful finish isn't created by applying more product.

It's created through careful preparation, patience and allowing each coat to do its job before moving to the next.

Every sanding step influences the appearance of the final surface.

Every coat builds upon the one before it.

Trying to hurry the process almost always creates more work rather than less.

Some of the most satisfying moments in my workshop happen during finishing because it's when all of the previous work finally comes together.

The grain comes alive.

The colour deepens.

The character of the wood begins to reveal itself.

Those moments are worth waiting for.

Every project also receives time simply for observation.

Sometimes I'll leave a completed assembly overnight before moving to the next stage.

Not because something is wrong.

Because I want the opportunity to look at it again with fresh eyes.

A tiny adjustment noticed today may prevent a lifetime of wishing I'd spent five more minutes making it better.

Those quiet decisions rarely appear in photographs, yet they're part of what separates craftsmanship from production.

People occasionally ask if I could build more tables by working faster.

The honest answer is...

Probably.

But that has never been my goal.

I'd rather complete one table that I'm genuinely proud of than two that leave me wondering if I could have done better.

The furniture leaving my workshop carries my name.

That's something I take seriously.

Waiting for a custom board game table isn't simply waiting for wood to be assembled.

It's waiting for hundreds of thoughtful decisions to come together into one finished piece.

The conversations.

The planning.

The careful material selection.

The joinery.

The sanding.

The finishing.

The final inspection.

Every stage contributes to the table your family will eventually gather around.

When viewed that way, the waiting becomes part of the story rather than an inconvenience.

One of the greatest compliments a craftsman can receive isn't,

"That was fast."

It's,

"It was worth the wait."

Those five words mean far more to me.

Because they tell me the time invested in the project created something that exceeded expectations rather than simply meeting a deadline.

That's the kind of furniture I hope to build every single time.

Craftsman's Tip

If you're comparing custom furniture builders, don't be afraid to ask how they approach their process.

How is the wood selected?

Who builds the furniture?

How is the finish applied?

What quality checks take place before delivery?

The answers to those questions often reveal far more about the finished piece than the delivery timeline ever will.

Craftsman's Thought

Over the years I've learned that people rarely remember exactly how much they waited for a custom piece of furniture.

They remember how they felt the first time they saw it completed.

If waiting a little longer means creating something you'll proudly own for the next thirty years, I believe that's time well invested.

Continue Reading

If you'd like to explore this philosophy in greater detail, I invite you to read Why We Don't Rush Custom Furniture, where I share why patience has always been one of the most valuable tools in my workshop.

If you're interested in learning more about the person behind every project, I'd be honoured to have you Meet the Craftsman.

How We Design Every Custom Board Game Table

One of the things I enjoy most about building custom furniture is that no two projects ever begin in exactly the same way.

Some people contact me with detailed drawings they've spent months creating.

Others simply tell me,

"I've always wanted a board game table, but I don't know where to begin."

Both approaches are perfectly welcome.

In fact, most projects begin somewhere in between.

That's one of the advantages of true custom furniture.

You don't need to have all the answers before reaching out.

That's what I'm here to help with.

Every custom board game table begins with a conversation.

Not just about wood species.

Not just about accessories.

About people.

Who will use the table?

What games do you enjoy?

Will it also be your dining table?

How often do you entertain?

What do you love about your home?

What would you change about the furniture you already own?

Those questions often tell me far more than measurements ever could.

Before we design a table, I want to understand the life it will become part of.

One thing I always encourage clients to remember is that this isn't a race.

There is no prize for making decisions quickly.

In fact, some of the best ideas appear after we've had time to think.

Sometimes a client will send me a message a week later saying,

"I just thought of something..."

I love those messages.

They usually mean the design is becoming more personal.

Great furniture deserves that kind of thought.

As the conversations continue, the project begins to take shape.

Dimensions become clearer.

Wood species begin to emerge.

Features start making sense.

Rather than selecting options from a fixed menu, we're gradually building a table around the way you actually live.

That's why every project feels different.

No two families are the same.

No two homes are the same.

Why should every table be the same?

One thing clients often tell me is how much they appreciate seeing the design evolve before construction begins.

There's a sense of confidence that comes from knowing exactly what we're building together.

Instead of hoping everything turns out as imagined, you have the opportunity to refine the details before the first board is ever milled.

To me, that's one of the greatest advantages of working with a custom craftsman.

The design belongs to both of us.

Once the design has been finalized, material selection begins.

Every board is chosen with the finished project in mind.

I'm not simply looking for lumber.

I'm looking for grain that complements the design.

Colour that works beautifully together.

Character that suits the personality of the piece.

Nature creates enough beauty on its own.

My job is to recognize it and allow it to become part of the furniture.

Construction then begins one careful step at a time.

Joinery.

Assembly.

Sanding.

Finishing.

Inspection.

Every stage builds upon the one before it.

There's no shortcut that improves craftsmanship.

Only careful work repeated consistently.

That's one of the reasons I personally build every Western Pride Woodworks project from start to finish.

Maintaining that continuity allows every decision to serve the finished table rather than simply completing the next step in a production process.

Before any table leaves my workshop, I spend time looking at it not as the builder...

but as the future owner.

Would I proudly place this in my own home?

Would I feel excited every time I walked past it?

Does every detail reflect the standard I expect from my own work?

If the answer to any of those questions isn't an immediate yes, then my work isn't finished yet.

One of the greatest privileges of custom woodworking is being trusted with something that may become part of a family's story for generations.

That's never something I take lightly.

When you invite me to build a table for your home, you're trusting me with far more than lumber.

You're trusting me with birthdays.

Game nights.

Holiday dinners.

Conversations.

Traditions.

That's a responsibility I think about every single day.

At the end of every project, my hope isn't simply that you receive a beautiful piece of furniture.

My hope is that years later, you'll still enjoy sitting around it just as much as you did the day it arrived.

If that happens...

Then we've built far more than a table

Craftsman's Tip

Don't worry if you don't have every detail figured out before contacting a custom furniture maker.

A good craftsman should help you discover the right design not expect you to arrive with all the answers.

Some of the best ideas emerge through conversation.

Craftsman's Thought

People sometimes imagine that designing custom furniture begins with measurements.

For me, it begins with listening.

Everything else grows naturally from there.

Continue Reading

Every custom project begins with understanding the people it is being built for. If you'd like to learn more about that philosophy, I invite you to read Why Great Furniture Begins With Listening.

If you'd like to learn more about the values that guide every project, I'd be honoured to have you Meet the Craftsman.

Understanding the Investment

Buying a custom board game table is a significant decision.

For many people, it may be one of the most important pieces of furniture they ever commission.

It may become their dining table.

Their weekly gaming table.

The place where friends gather.

The place where children grow up.

And, hopefully, a piece that remains in the family for decades.

That is why I prefer to think of a custom board game table as an investment rather than simply a purchase.

Not because every piece of furniture needs to be expensive.

Because the right piece can continue creating value in your home long after the original price has been forgotten.

One of the first questions people naturally ask is,

"How much does a custom board game table cost?"

It is a fair and important question.

The honest answer is that there is no single price that accurately represents every custom table.

There should not be.

A compact table built for four people is very different from a large extendable table designed to host holiday gatherings.

A table built from hard maple will have a different material cost than one built from premium black walnut.

A straightforward design will require a different amount of labour than a piece with additional accessories, extension leaves, specialized storage, or highly customized details.

True custom pricing reflects the actual project rather than forcing every client into a predetermined package.

What Influences the Cost of a Custom Board Game Table?

Several decisions influence the final investment.

The size of the table.

The hardwood species.

The base design.

The number and size of topper panels.

The accessories selected.

Whether the table is fixed or extendable.

The complexity of the joinery.

The finish.

The delivery location.

None of these factors exist in isolation.

They work together to determine the materials, labour, planning, and transportation required to build the table properly.

That is why I do not believe in giving vague ballpark prices before I understand the project.

A number offered without understanding what you actually need is not especially helpful.

It may create unrealistic expectations, or it may discourage someone whose project would have been much simpler than imagined.

I would rather ask the right questions first and then provide an honest quote based on the table you are actually considering.

That approach is one of the reasons every project begins with listening. You can learn more about it in Why Great Furniture Begins With Listening.

Customization Does Not Mean Adding Everything

It is easy to assume that a custom table becomes more valuable simply by adding more features.

I do not believe that.

A feature only adds value when it improves the way you will use the table.

Extension leaves can be extremely useful for a household that regularly hosts larger gatherings but does not have the space for a larger table.

For another household, they may add cost and create a storage challenge without being used often enough to justify either one.

The same principle applies to accessories, lighting, charging options, storage, and other custom details.

My goal is not to build the most elaborate table possible.

My goal is to help you invest in the right table.

That sometimes means recommending a simpler option.

Every feature should earn its place.

If you are deciding which options would genuinely improve your table, the chapter on Understanding Board Game Table Features explains how I approach those decisions.

Luxury Craftsmanship Without the Luxury Markup

Custom furniture is often associated with luxury pricing.

Sometimes that is justified by the work, materials, and expertise involved.

Sometimes part of the price also reflects large showrooms, multiple sales layers, extensive advertising, brand prestige, or other overhead that does not become part of the furniture itself.

Western Pride Woodworks operates differently.

I personally design and build each project.

There is no factory production line.

There are no layers of salespeople between the client and the craftsman.

There is no national showroom network to support.

You are investing directly in the hardwood, the design, the labour, the finish, and the experience required to build the table properly.

That allows me to offer what I believe is exceptional value for genuine custom craftsmanship.

My goal has never been to attach the highest possible price to my work.

It is to charge fairly for the materials and labour required to build something I am proud to place my name on.

To me, luxury should describe the quality of the craftsmanship not the size of the markup.

Honest Pricing Means Understanding What You Are Comparing

Comparing quotes from different builders can be difficult because two tables that appear similar in photographs may be very different beneath the surface.

One may be built from solid hardwood.

Another may incorporate veneers, engineered materials, or imported components.

One may be built by the same craftsperson from beginning to end.

Another may pass through several production departments.

One quote may include topper panels, a gaming surface, a recessed vault, finishing, accessories, and delivery considerations.

Another may present those items as separate upgrades later.

That does not necessarily make one company dishonest or the other company better.

It simply means the details matter.

When comparing quotes, ask what is included.

Ask what materials are being used.

Ask who will build the table.

Ask about the finish.

Ask about delivery.

Ask whether the table can be repaired or refinished in the future.

The lowest initial number does not always represent the best long-term value.

The Cheapest Table Is Not Always the Least Expensive

Price and cost are not always the same thing.

A table with a lower purchase price may need to be repaired, replaced, or discarded much sooner.

A properly built solid hardwood table can be maintained, repaired, and refinished as the years pass.

That changes the long-term calculation.

A table that remains in service for thirty or forty years may ultimately cost less per year of use than one that needs replacing several times.

It may also avoid sending multiple pieces of furniture to landfill during the same period.

That does not mean everyone should buy the most expensive table they can afford.

It means durability, repairability, and longevity deserve a place in the conversation.

LINK TO: Built for Generations, Not Landfills

Suggested linked sentence:

The environmental and long-term value of durable furniture is explored further in Built for Generations, Not Landfills.

Shipping Fully Built Board Game Tables Across Canada

Many people outside Ontario assume that commissioning a handcrafted table from Western Pride Woodworks may not be practical because of the distance.

Fortunately, I have access to very competitive shipping rates for transporting fully built tables across Canada.

Many clients are pleasantly surprised to learn that delivery can be more reasonable than they expected.

Shipping a substantial piece of furniture still requires careful planning.

The size of the table, destination, access to the property, and delivery requirements all need to be considered.

Those details are discussed early so the shipping cost can be included clearly rather than appearing as an unpleasant surprise near the end of the project.

Where practical, shipping the table fully built also means the client does not have to assemble a complicated piece of custom furniture after it arrives.

The goal is for the table to reach its new home safely and be ready to become part of everyday life.

LINK TO: Board Game Tables

Suggested linked sentence:

Clients throughout the country can explore examples of my work on the Custom Board Game Tables page.

Payment Should Feel Clear, Not Stressful

I believe financial expectations should be straightforward from the beginning.

For projects delivered personally, the material cost is paid to secure the project within my schedule, and the labour portion is due upon delivery.

For tables that are shipped, the labour portion is paid after the build is complete and before shipment is arranged.

This structure allows materials to be purchased specifically for the project while avoiding the expectation that a client pay the full project amount before the table has been built.

Clear expectations reduce uncertainty for everyone.

And that is exactly what a good custom process should do.

Value Is More Than the Final Number

The value of a custom board game table cannot be measured only by the amount of hardwood it contains.

It also includes the design work that ensures it fits the room.

The conversations that prevent expensive mistakes.

The customization that makes it comfortable for the people using it.

The experience that allows problems to be anticipated before they reach the client.

The ability to contact the person who is actually building the furniture.

And the confidence of knowing that every important decision has been made with the finished table in mind.

Those things are difficult to show on a specification sheet.

But they are often what clients value most once the project is complete

Twenty years from now, I do not expect anyone to remember the exact amount written on their original quote.

I hope they remember the weekly game nights.

The holiday dinners.

The campaign that lasted for months.

The guests who became close friends.

The evening everyone put their phones away and stayed at the table longer than planned.

That is where the real return on the investment is found.

The table supports those moments.

The memories become the lasting value.

Craftsman's Tip

When comparing quotes, do not compare only the final totals.

Compare what each total includes.

Look at the materials, construction, customization, finishing, accessories, delivery, and the experience of the person responsible for the finished piece.

A lower quote is not automatically a better value.

A higher quote is not automatically better craftsmanship.

The details—and the trust you have in the builder—matter most.

Craftsman's Thought

I have never wanted Western Pride Woodworks to become known for building the most expensive tables.

I want it to be known for building tables that provide exceptional value for the craftsmanship, materials, and customization clients receive.

Fair pricing and excellent work should be able to exist together.

That is the standard I try to maintain with every project.

Before You Move On

If you remember only one thing from this chapter, let it be this:

The best value is not necessarily the lowest price. It is the confidence that your investment is going into the craftsmanship, materials, and thoughtful decisions that will continue serving you for decades.

Continue Reading

A good investment should leave you feeling confident rather than uncertain. The chapter Custom Means Comfort explains why a truly custom process should remove compromises and reduce anxiety.

Understanding the investment also means understanding the work behind it. In Why we refuse to rush custom furniture I explain why some stages of craftsmanship simply should not be rushed.

When you are ready to explore your own project, you can request a custom quote without pressure or obligation. The purpose of the first conversation is simply to understand what you are hoping to create

Questions Every Buyer Should Ask Before Choosing a Custom Furniture Maker

Choosing a custom furniture maker is about much more than comparing prices or browsing photographs.

You're placing your trust in someone to build a piece of furniture that may become part of your home for decades.

That's a responsibility that deserves thoughtful questions.

Whether you eventually choose Western Pride Woodworks or another craftsman, I encourage you to ask those questions with confidence.

A good furniture maker shouldn't be uncomfortable answering them.

In fact, they should welcome the opportunity.

The right questions don't make a project more difficult.

They help ensure everyone begins with the same expectations.

Who Will Actually Build My Table?

One of the first questions I encourage people to ask is a simple one.

"Who will actually build my table?"

Some companies have dedicated design teams, separate production departments, finishing specialists and delivery crews.

Others, like Western Pride Woodworks, are built around a single craftsman who personally designs, builds and finishes every project.

Neither approach is automatically better.

They're simply different.

The important thing is understanding who will ultimately be responsible for the furniture that arrives in your home.

Knowing who is building your table creates confidence.

It also creates accountability.

How Custom Is "Custom"?

The word custom means different things to different companies.

Some builders offer a carefully selected range of sizes, wood species and features.

Others begin with a completely blank sheet of paper.

Neither approach is wrong.

The important question is whether the furniture is being designed around your needs—or whether you're being asked to choose the closest option from an existing catalogue.

Ask what can actually be changed.

Dimensions.

Wood species.

Base designs.

Features.

Accessibility considerations.

The more clearly you understand the possibilities, the easier it becomes to decide whether a builder is the right fit for your project.

What Materials Will Be Used?

Materials influence far more than appearance.

They affect durability.

Repairability.

Longevity.

Future maintenance.

Ask whether the table is built from solid hardwood, engineered materials or a combination of both.

Ask where the wood comes from.

Ask how it will be finished.

These aren't difficult questions.

A craftsman who takes pride in their work will usually enjoy explaining the choices they've made.

What Happens If I Don't Know Exactly What I Want?

This may be one of the most important questions in the entire guide.

Many people delay contacting a furniture maker because they believe they need every detail figured out before the first conversation.

In my experience, that's rarely true.

Some of the best projects begin with nothing more than an idea.

A photograph that inspired you.

A favourite game.

A room you'd like to transform.

A challenge you'd like the furniture to solve.

Design is a conversation.

You don't need all the answers before introducing yourself.

A good craftsman should help you discover them.

Can I See Previous Work?

Photographs tell stories.

Not just about the furniture...

About consistency.

Look beyond the overall design.

Notice the details.

The joinery.

The finish.

The proportions.

The grain selection.

The way different projects reflect different clients rather than looking identical.

A portfolio should give you confidence that the builder can create furniture which feels unique rather than repetitive.

How Is the Furniture Finished?

The finish protects the craftsmanship you've invested in.

Ask what type of finish is used.

Ask why it was chosen.

Ask how it performs during everyday family life.

A beautiful finish should not only enhance the natural character of the wood.

It should also provide lasting protection while remaining practical to live with.

A good craftsman should be able to explain those choices in language that's easy to understand.

What Happens If I'm Not Completely Happy?

This is a question I believe every client should feel comfortable asking.

Custom furniture is deeply personal.

It's natural to want everything to feel right.

If something isn't quite what you expected on delivery day, what happens next?

My answer is simple.

I want to know.

We'll make it right.

No uncomfortable conversations.

No feeling like you're asking for too much.

No wondering whether you should simply live with something that doesn't feel right.

The project isn't complete because the table has been delivered.

The project is complete when you're proud to welcome it into your home.

Sometimes that may involve a small adjustment.

Sometimes it may simply be explaining a natural characteristic of solid wood.

Whatever the situation, I want every client to feel comfortable speaking honestly.

Good communication doesn't end at delivery.

In many ways, that's one of the most important moments in the entire project.

What Happens After Delivery?

A custom board game table is built to serve your family for many years.

Knowing that support remains available after delivery provides tremendous peace of mind.

If you have a question...

If you need advice...

If life changes and you'd like guidance on caring for your table...

You should feel comfortable reaching out.

A good relationship with a craftsman shouldn't end when the truck pulls away.

Do I Feel Comfortable With This Person?

This may be the most important question of all.

You're not simply choosing a table.

You're choosing the person who will help bring that table to life.

Do they listen?

Do they answer questions patiently?

Do they explain things clearly?

Do you feel pressured?

Or do you feel understood?

Trust your instincts.

A custom furniture project should leave you feeling excited.

Not anxious.

Confident.

Not rushed.

Comfortable.

Not uncertain.

Those feelings matter just as much as the finished furniture.

Buyer's Checklist

Before choosing a custom furniture maker, ask yourself:

✅ I understand who will build my furniture.

✅ I understand the materials being used.

✅ I understand what is included in my quote.

✅ I understand the expected timeline.

✅ I know how questions and changes are handled.

✅ I know what happens if something isn't quite right.

✅ I feel comfortable asking honest questions.

✅ I never felt pressured to make a decision.

If, after reading this chapter, you feel more confident asking questions even if you never contact me then I've accomplished exactly what I hoped this guide would do.

Craftsman's Tip

One of the best signs you've found the right furniture maker isn't how quickly they answer your questions.

It's how carefully they answer them.

Thoughtful answers usually come from thoughtful craftsmanship.

Before You Move On

If you remember only one thing from this chapter, let it be this:

The right craftsman won't simply answer your questions. They'll make you feel comfortable asking them.

Continue Reading

Curious about what those conversations actually look like? In How We Design Every Custom Board Game Table, I walk through the process I use to transform ideas into heirloom furniture.

Choosing a furniture maker is also about choosing a person. If you'd like to learn more about my background and philosophy, I'd be honoured to have you Meet the Craftsman.

If you're ready to begin exploring your own ideas, I'd be happy to start the conversation. There's no pressure and no expectation just an opportunity to talk about the table you're imagining.

Request a custom quote

Every Great Table Begins With A Conversation

Ordering a custom board game table shouldn't feel overwhelming.

It shouldn't feel like you're expected to know every measurement, every feature, or every wood species before you ever send an email.

That's my job.

Some clients contact me with detailed sketches they've spent months creating.

Others simply tell me,

"I've always wanted a board game table, but I don't know where to begin."

Both approaches are equally welcome.

Every custom project begins with a conversation not a sales pitch.

We'll talk about how you hope to use your table, the games you enjoy, your room, your family, your style, and what matters most to you.

From there, we'll begin shaping an idea into something that's uniquely yours.

Learning About The People Around The Table

One of the biggest advantages of true custom furniture is that the design starts with people not dimensions.

I'll often ask questions like:

• Who will be using the table?

• How many people do you usually host?

• Will it be your everyday dining table?

• Are young children part of your family?

• Do you play long campaign games or quick family games?

• Do you have accessibility needs that should be considered?

The answers to these questions influence almost every design decision we make.

Because the best custom board game table isn't simply beautiful.

It's built around the way your family actually lives.

Turning Ideas Into A Design

Once I understand your vision, we begin refining the details together.

We'll discuss:

• Size
• Shape
• Wood species
• Finish
• Accessories
• Storage
• Vault depth
• Optional extensions
• Dining requirements

Nothing is rushed.

Nothing is chosen simply because it's easier.

One decision at a time, your ideas gradually become a table that's designed specifically for your home.

That's one of my favourite parts of the entire process.

Watching someone's vision slowly become real.

Your Quote

Once we've discussed your project, I'll prepare a detailed custom quote.

I believe pricing should be straightforward and easy to understand.

You'll know exactly what you're receiving without hidden surprises or confusing upgrades.

I often describe my work as luxury craftsmanship without the luxury markup.

Every table is individually built by hand using premium Canadian hardwoods, yet I work hard to keep my pricing fair and honest.

Your quote will also include an estimated delivery window, such as October–November 2027.

I use estimated timeframes rather than exact dates because custom furniture involves many factors outside anyone's control, including material availability, supplier schedules, and the natural variation that comes with handcrafted work.

I'd rather give you an honest estimate than a promise I can't guarantee.

Reserving Your Place In My Schedule

A materials deposit reserves your place in my build schedule.

From that point forward, I begin preparing for your project long before the first piece of wood is ever cut.

Hardwood is often purchased well in advance and carefully stored specifically for your table. This allows me to secure materials at today's pricing while ensuring I have the right boards ready when your build begins.

Your place in my production schedule is also reserved exclusively for you.

Because I only build a limited number of custom tables each year, accepting your project often means turning down other work that would overlap with your reserved build window.

For those reasons, deposits are non-refundable once a project has been accepted into my schedule.

This isn't because I want to make cancellations difficult.

It's because significant time, planning, material purchases, and workshop capacity are committed to every custom project long before construction begins.

I believe that's one of the realities of true custom furniture.

Every table is built for one family, one home, and one vision.

Building Your Table

Unlike large manufacturers, I don't build dozens of identical tables at once.

Each project receives my full attention.

Every board is selected specifically for your table.

Every detail is built with care.

There isn't an assembly line.

There isn't a production quota.

Just one craftsman focused on creating furniture that's meant to become part of your family's story.

Staying In Touch

One question I hear fairly often is,

"Will I know what's happening while my table is being built?"

Absolutely.

You're always welcome to contact me for an update at any point during your project.

I respond to nearly every email and message within 24 hours, and often much sooner.

If your table is actively being built, I'll happily let you know where things stand.

If your project is still scheduled for a future build date, I'll always be honest about where it sits in the schedule.

I'd much rather answer a quick email than have you wondering.

Delivery Day

Delivery day is one of my favourite parts of the entire process.

It's the moment your table stops being my project and becomes part of your home.

Whether I'm delivering it personally or preparing it for shipping, I want you to be completely happy with the finished piece.

If there's anything you aren't satisfied with when your table arrives, I'll make it right.

No arguments.

No complicated policies.

No passing responsibility to someone else.

Your satisfaction matters, and I stand behind every table I build.

Shipping Across Canada

Many people are surprised to learn that I regularly ship fully assembled board game tables across Canada.

Over the years, I've worked hard to establish excellent shipping rates that make custom furniture more accessible than many people expect.

Your table arrives fully assembled and ready to become part of your home.

No confusing instructions.

No bags of hardware.

No wondering which piece goes where.

Long After Delivery

My relationship with my clients doesn't end when the table arrives.

If you ever have questions about caring for your table...

Need advice years later...

Or simply want to ask something about your furniture...

I'm always happy to help.

That's one of the advantages of working directly with the person who built your table.

You always know exactly who to contact.

Craftsman's Thought

One of the greatest privileges of my career is being invited into moments that matter.

Family dinners.

Game nights.

Holiday celebrations.

Quiet evenings together.

Those moments don't happen because of the table.

But the table becomes the place where they're remembered.

When someone chooses Western Pride Woodworks, I never see it as simply another project.

I see it as another family placing their trust in me.

That's a responsibility I never take lightly.

Caring for Your Custom Board Game Table

One of the things I enjoy most about building solid hardwood furniture is knowing that it doesn't have to be temporary.

Unlike many everyday household items, a well-built hardwood table has the potential to remain part of a family for generations.

That kind of longevity doesn't happen by accident.

It happens through thoughtful craftsmanship...

and a little thoughtful care.

The good news is that caring for a custom board game table is much simpler than many people expect.

You don't need complicated products or elaborate routines.

A few good habits will help your table remain beautiful for many years to come.

Solid Wood Is Meant To Be Lived With

One of the wonderful things about solid hardwood is that it develops character over time.

Tiny changes in colour.

A little more warmth.

The subtle signs that a piece of furniture has been part of real life.

I don't believe furniture needs to remain frozen in time to be beautiful.

In fact, some of my favourite pieces are the ones that clearly show they've been well loved.

A custom board game table should be used.

Shared.

Enjoyed.

It wasn't built to spend its life covered with a tablecloth.

Everyday Cleaning

For most families, everyday care is wonderfully simple.

A soft microfiber cloth is usually all that's needed to remove dust.

If a little more cleaning is required, use a damp cloth followed immediately by a dry one.

Avoid soaking the surface or allowing water to remain on the wood for extended periods.

Simple habits performed consistently are always better than harsh cleaners used occasionally.

Protecting The Finish

The finish on your table is designed to protect the hardwood beneath it, but every finish appreciates a little common sense.

Use coasters for drinks whenever practical.

Lift rather than drag heavy objects across the surface.

Avoid placing extremely hot cookware directly on the tabletop.

These aren't difficult rules.

They're simply good habits that help preserve the furniture for years to come.

The goal isn't to make you worry every time someone sets down a coffee mug.

The goal is simply to treat handcrafted furniture with the same care you'd give anything you hope to enjoy for decades.

Understanding Natural Wood Movement

One of the most beautiful things about solid hardwood is that it's still a natural material.

Even after becoming furniture, it continues responding to seasonal changes in humidity.

That means very small amounts of expansion and contraction are completely normal.

This isn't a defect.

It's actually a sign that your table is built from genuine hardwood rather than synthetic materials.

Experienced furniture makers design with this natural movement in mind.

Rather than fighting nature, we work alongside it.

Sunlight And Colour Changes

Many hardwood species naturally change colour over time.

Black Walnut may become slightly lighter.

Cherry gradually deepens into rich warm tones.

These changes are part of the natural beauty of real wood.

If your table receives strong sunlight from nearby windows, rotating decorative items occasionally allows the wood to age more evenly across the surface.

Watching a table mature over many years is one of the quiet pleasures of owning handcrafted furniture.

What If Something Happens?

Life happens.

Children grow.

Accidents occur.

Furniture is meant to be lived with.

If you ever have a question about caring for your table, notice something you'd like me to look at, or simply aren't sure how to handle a situation...

Please ask.

I'd much rather answer a question than have you worry about making the wrong decision.

One of the advantages of working directly with the person who built your table is knowing exactly who to contact.

You don't have to figure it out by yourself.

Furniture Built For Decades

When I build a custom board game table, I'm not thinking about next year.

I'm thinking about twenty years from now.

Thirty years from now.

I want the table to remain just as enjoyable long after today's board games have been replaced by tomorrow's favourites.

The finish may eventually need refreshing.

The wood will continue developing character.

The memories will continue growing.

That's exactly how heirloom furniture is supposed to age.

Caring For The Memories Too

One thing I've noticed over the years is that people rarely remember every technical detail about a table.

They remember who sat around it.

The campaign that finally reached its conclusion.

The child who insisted on being the banker every Monopoly game.

The holiday dinner that lasted hours longer than anyone expected.

Those memories become part of the furniture just as surely as the wood itself.

The table quietly carries them forward.

To me, that's one of the greatest privileges of building custom furniture.

Craftsman's Tip

Don't wait until something seems wrong before asking a question.

Whether it's cleaning, seasonal wood movement, or general care, I'd always rather help you preserve your table than have you worry unnecessarily.

Sometimes a quick conversation provides all the reassurance you need.

Before You Move On

If you remember only one thing from this chapter, let it be this:

A custom board game table doesn't need perfect care. It simply needs thoughtful care from the people who gather around it.

Continue Reading

One of the greatest environmental benefits of solid hardwood furniture is its ability to remain useful for decades. You can read more about that philosophy in Built for Generations, Not Landfills.

If you'd like to learn more about the values that guide every project, I'd be honoured to have you Meet the Craftsman.

If you're beginning to imagine a custom board game table of your own, I'd be happy to start the conversation whenever you're ready. Contact Me

Frequently Asked Questions

Over the years, I've noticed something interesting.

No matter where someone is in their custom furniture journey, many of the same questions come up.

That's a good thing.

It tells me people are taking the time to make an informed decision.

Below are some of the questions I'm asked most often.

If your question isn't answered here, you're always welcome to reach out.

I'd much rather answer a question than have you wondering.

How long does it take to build a custom board game table?

Every project is different, so the timeline depends on the size, complexity and the number of projects already reserved in my schedule.

Rather than promising an exact completion date months in advance, I provide an estimated delivery window with every quote.

I believe that's a more honest approach because custom furniture depends on many factors, including material availability, finishing time and the natural rhythm of handcrafted work.

If you'd ever like an update while your project is in my schedule, you're always welcome to contact me.

I'll happily let you know where everything stands.

Do you ship across Canada?

Absolutely.

Many of my clients are surprised to learn that I regularly ship fully assembled board game tables across Canada.

Over the years, I've worked hard to establish excellent shipping rates that make custom furniture far more accessible than many people expect.

Every shipping quote is tailored to your project so you'll understand the cost before moving forward.

Can you build a table to my exact size?

Yes.

That's one of the biggest advantages of custom furniture.

Rather than asking you to choose from a handful of standard sizes, I design every table around your room, your family and the way you'll use it.

Sometimes that means making a table slightly longer.

Sometimes slightly narrower.

Sometimes it means incorporating accessibility features or designing around an unusual space.

The goal isn't to fit your home around the furniture.

It's to build furniture that fits your home.

Can I choose any wood species?

In most cases, yes.

I work with beautiful Canadian hardwoods including Black Walnut, White Oak, Hard Maple, Cherry, Ash and Red Oak.

Each species has its own personality, grain pattern and natural character.

During the design process, I'll help you choose the one that best suits your home and your vision.

Are extension leaves available?

Yes.

I can build extendable board game tables using one or more extension leaves.

For some families, they're an excellent solution.

For others, a fixed-size table may make more sense.

Extension leaves increase both the complexity of the build and the storage space required when they're not in use, so we'll discuss whether they're the right fit for your lifestyle rather than assuming everyone needs them.

My goal is always to recommend what's best for you not simply the most elaborate option.

Is the gaming vault standard?

Yes.

Every Western Pride Woodworks board game table includes a recessed gaming vault because I believe it's one of the defining features of a true board game table.

Being able to pause a game, replace the topper panels and enjoy the table for everyday life is one of the greatest advantages of owning custom gaming furniture.

Can I customize the features?

Absolutely.

One of the advantages of working directly with a custom furniture maker is that your table isn't limited to a fixed list of options.

We'll discuss how you plan to use the table and choose features that genuinely improve your experience.

Every feature should earn its place.

Do I need to know exactly what I want before contacting you?

Not at all.

In fact, many of my favourite projects began with little more than an idea.

Some clients have sketches.

Some have inspiration photos.

Some simply know they'd like a beautiful board game table but aren't sure where to begin.

That's perfectly normal.

Helping people develop those ideas is one of the most enjoyable parts of custom furniture.

You don't have to figure it out by yourself.

Can you match other furniture in my home?

Often, yes.

While every project is unique, I can usually design a table that complements existing furniture, flooring, cabinetry or the overall style of your home.

The goal isn't necessarily to create an exact copy.

It's to create something that feels like it has always belonged there.

What happens if I'm not happy with something?

I hope you'll tell me.

Custom furniture is personal, and I want you to feel completely comfortable speaking honestly.

If something isn't right when your table is delivered, we'll make it right.

No awkward conversations.

No feeling like you're asking for too much.

The project isn't complete until you're proud to welcome your table into your home.

Can you build furniture other than board game tables?

Absolutely.

While board game tables have become a major part of my work, I also build custom dining tables, benches, banquettes, hallway tables and other handcrafted furniture.

The same principles apply to every project:

Thoughtful design.

Quality craftsmanship.

Honest communication.

Furniture built to last.

Why should I choose Western Pride Woodworks?

Only you can answer that question.

My hope is that after reading this guide, you have a clear understanding of how I approach craftsmanship, communication and custom furniture.

Whether you choose Western Pride Woodworks or another craftsman, I genuinely hope you feel informed and confident in your decision.

If you believe my approach matches what you're looking for, I'd be honoured to build something for your family.

What's the Best Way to Communicate During My Project?

Email is almost always the best way to reach me.

There are two reasons for that, and both help me provide a better experience for my clients.

First, email creates a written record of our conversations.

Custom furniture projects often involve many decisions over several weeks or months—dimensions, wood species, finishes, accessories, delivery details and design ideas.

Having those conversations in writing means I can easily look back and confirm exactly what we discussed.

It helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures we're always working from the same information.

Second, I'm a one-person workshop.

Much of my day is spent building furniture in an environment where loud machinery makes answering the phone impractical.

Rather than interrupting a project or returning a rushed phone call between tasks, I'd rather give your questions the attention they deserve.

If you send me an email, I can respond thoughtfully once I'm back at my desk.

I reply to almost every email within 24 hours, and often much sooner.

Of course, there are times when a phone conversation is the best way to discuss a project.

When that's the case, I'm always happy to arrange a call.

Email simply provides the best starting point for most conversations.

When I'm building your table, I want my full attention on the craftsmanship. When I'm answering your questions, I want my full attention on you.

Craftsman's Tip

No question is ever "too small."

Sometimes a five-minute conversation prevents months of uncertainty.

If you're wondering about something, just ask.

That's what I'm here for.

Why Buying Canadian Matters

When people choose a custom board game table, they're making more than a furniture purchase.

They're deciding where their investment goes.

It can support a factory halfway around the world.

Or it can support a craftsman in their own country who builds every table by hand.

I believe that choice matters.

Not because one country is better than another, but because local craftsmanship creates something that mass production never can—a relationship between the maker and the family who will enjoy the finished piece.

When you contact Western Pride Woodworks, you're speaking directly with the person who will design, build, finish, and deliver your table.

There isn't a sales department.

There isn't a production manager.

There isn't a factory.

Just one craftsman who genuinely wants to build something your family will be proud to own.

Canadian Hardwood. Canadian Craftsmanship.

Canada is home to some of the finest hardwoods in the world.

Black walnut.

Hard maple.

White oak.

Cherry.

Ash.

These are woods that have built homes, furniture, and family heirlooms for generations.

Whenever possible, I source Canadian hardwoods because they combine exceptional beauty with outstanding durability while supporting Canadian mills and suppliers.

Every project also supports the local businesses that help make custom craftsmanship possible—from lumber suppliers to finishing products, hardware distributors, shipping partners, and many other Canadian businesses working behind the scenes.

Choosing a Canadian-made table means your investment continues supporting skilled trades long after your table leaves my workshop.

Keeping Craftsmanship Alive

Craftsmanship isn't something that can be mass-produced.

It has to be learned.

Practiced.

Protected.

Every custom project helps keep traditional woodworking alive for another generation.

I believe that's worth preserving.

Not because everything should be handmade.

But because some things deserve to be.

A custom board game table isn't simply another piece of furniture.

It's where birthdays are celebrated.

Campaigns are won.

Friendships grow stronger.

Children become adults.

Those memories deserve something built with care.

Proud To Build In Canada

Every table that leaves my workshop represents my name.

My reputation.

My craftsmanship.

That responsibility never changes.

Whether your table is staying in Ontario or shipping across Canada, it receives exactly the same level of care and attention.

I often say that I build luxury craftsmanship without the luxury markup.

That isn't marketing.

It's simply the business I've always wanted to build.

One where quality comes first.

Where honesty matters.

And where every customer feels they're working with someone who genuinely cares about getting their table exactly right.

A Letter From the Craftsman

If you've made it this far...

Thank you.

Not just for visiting my website.

Not just for reading this guide.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about something that has been such an important part of my life.

In a world where almost everything seems to move faster every year, choosing to slow down and thoughtfully invest in something built by hand means more than you may realize.

Whether you eventually choose Western Pride Woodworks, another craftsman, or decide that now simply isn't the right time, I genuinely hope this guide has helped you feel more confident.

That was always its purpose.

When I started my career, I wasn't thinking about writing guides like this one.

I was simply trying to become better at my craft.

One project taught me something.

Then another.

Over the years, those lessons slowly became experience.

And eventually, experience became a responsibility.

I realized that if nearly three decades in the workshop had taught me anything worthwhile, I should be willing to share it with others.

Not because I have all the answers.

But because I remember what it felt like not knowing where to begin.

If this guide has helped remove even a little uncertainty from your decision, then it has accomplished exactly what I hoped it would.

One thing I've learned over the years is that furniture isn't really about furniture.

It's about people.

It's about the conversations that happen around it.

The laughter that echoes across it.

The quiet evenings.

The celebrations.

The difficult conversations.

The victories.

The board games that somehow become traditions.

The meals that seem to last just a little longer because nobody is in a hurry to leave the table.

Those are the moments that matter.

The table simply has the privilege of being there.

That's why I often say that I'm in the memory business.

The furniture is simply where those memories begin.

You'll probably notice that nowhere in this guide have I tried to convince you that Western Pride Woodworks is the only place you should buy a custom board game table.

That was never my goal.

My goal was something much simpler.

I wanted you to understand what thoughtful craftsmanship looks like.

I wanted you to know which questions to ask.

I wanted you to feel comfortable taking your time.

Because choosing custom furniture shouldn't feel stressful.

It should feel exciting.

Whether you choose me or another craftsman, I genuinely hope you find someone who listens carefully, communicates honestly, and builds something you'll be proud to welcome into your home.

Every family deserves that experience.

If you do decide that Western Pride Woodworks is the right fit for your project, I want you to know something.

You won't simply be ordering a table.

We'll begin a conversation.

We'll talk about your home.

Your family.

The games you enjoy.

The way you hope to use the table.

The memories you haven't created yet.

We'll build something together.

And I'll treat your project with the same care I'd hope someone would show if they were building something for my own home.

People sometimes ask me what success looks like.

It isn't measured by how many tables leave my workshop.

It isn't measured by how quickly I can build them.

It isn't measured by becoming the biggest furniture company in Canada.

Success, to me, is much quieter than that.

It's hearing that a family still gathers around one of my tables years later.

It's knowing a child learned their favourite game there.

It's knowing a holiday tradition continued around something I built with my own hands.

Those are the things I'm proud of.

Those are the things worth building.

If there's one thought I'd like to leave you with, it's this:

Take your time.

Take your time choosing.

Take your time asking questions.

Take your time finding the right craftsman.

Furniture built for generations deserves decisions that aren't rushed.

Quality has always rewarded patience.

Thank you again for spending part of your day with me.

I genuinely appreciate it.

Wherever your journey leads, I hope your future table becomes a place where laughter is shared, friendships grow stronger, families feel closer, and wonderful memories are made for many years to come.

If our paths happen to cross along the way, I'd be honoured to build something truly special for you.

Until then...

Take good care of one another.

And never underestimate the value of gathering around a table.

Kind regards,

Derek Lunau

Master Carpenter

Western Pride Woodworks

Quality is everything... and here, everything is quality.

About the Craftsman

Derek Lunau
Owner, Master Carpenter & Furniture Designer
Western Pride Woodworks

For more than 25 years, Derek Lunau has specialized in fine carpenty, woodworking and designing and building heirloom-quality custom furniture from premium Canadian hardwoods.

Every project at Western Pride Woodworks is personally designed, built, and finished by Derek, from material selection and grain matching to final assembly and finish.

His Workshop Notes share practical woodworking knowledge, furniture design principles, and lessons learned through decades of hands-on craftsmanship.

“I dont measure my success on how many tables leave my shop. I measure it by how proud I am of every one that does.”

🇨🇦 Proudly Built in Canada

Designed and handcrafted one table at a time in Ontario by Derek Lunau using carefully selected hardwoods.

Luxury craftsmanship without the luxury markup.

Built for generations not landfills.