Commissioned Work

Thoughtfully Designed. Made One at a Time.

In addition to my standard collection, I accept a limited number of commissioned projects each year. These pieces are designed collaboratively and crafted from solid hardwood, with the same respect for material, process, and natural character that defines all work from Hoeksema Woodworking.

Commissioned work allows for flexibility in size, form, and function—while staying true to the integrity of the wood and the way it naturally wants to exist.

What Commissioned Work Means Here

Commissioned pieces are not replicas or mass-produced designs. Each project begins with a conversation and is approached as a one-of-a-kind build, shaped by material availability, intended use, and natural variation in the wood itself.

I work best when given room to guide the design process—balancing your needs with what the material can do beautifully and honestly.

Types of Commissioned Projects

I accept commissions for select items, including:

  • Custom cutting boards and serving boards
  • Small furniture pieces
  • Home décor and functional wood objects
  • One-off designs tailored to a specific space or use

If your project involves solid wood and values craftsmanship over perfection, it’s likely a good fit.

Materials & Character

All commissioned work is crafted from solid hardwoods. Grain variation, knots, mineral streaks, and subtle movement are natural characteristics of wood and are embraced—not removed.

Because of this, commissioned pieces are never exact duplicates of past work. Each one carries its own character and story, shaped by the material itself.

The Commission Process

Commissioned projects follow a simple, intentional process:

  1. Initial Inquiry
    Share your idea, intended use, approximate size, and any inspiration.
  2. Design Alignment
    We discuss materials, form, and expectations to ensure the project is a good fit.
  3. Build & Finish
    Once details are finalized, the piece is crafted by hand and finished to protect the wood without masking its natural beauty.
  4. Completion & Delivery
    Each piece is completed with care and prepared for delivery or pickup.

Timelines vary depending on scope and material availability. Because each piece is made one at a time, patience is part of the process.

A Note on Availability

I accept a limited number of commissions to ensure each project receives the time and attention it deserves. Not every request is the right fit—and that selectivity is intentional.

If your project aligns with my approach to material honesty, craftsmanship, and longevity, I would be glad to discuss it further.

Start a Commission

If you’re interested in commissioned work, please reach out with a brief description of your project. Including size, intended use, and any reference images is helpful.

Deposit & Commitment

Commissioned work requires a significant investment of time, materials, and planning. To move forward with a project, a 50% non-refundable deposit is required once design details are approved.

This deposit secures your place in my build schedule and allows materials to be sourced specifically for your piece. The remaining balance is due upon completion, prior to delivery or pickup.

The remaining balance is due upon completion, prior to delivery or shipment.

Because commissioned pieces are made specifically for each project, design changes requested after approval may affect timeline and final cost.

Deposits cannot be refunded once work has begun.

 

Shipping & Handling for Custom Commissions

Custom commissions are created one piece at a time, specifically for you. Because of their size, weight, and one-of-a-kind nature, shipping for commissioned work is handled individually to ensure safe and proper delivery.

Custom Shipping Is Quoted Separately

Unlike standard products, commissioned pieces vary in:

  • Dimensions
  • Thickness
  • Wood species
  • Overall weight
  • Packaging requirements

For this reason, shipping costs for custom commissions are calculated after your piece is designed, not at checkout.

Once your project details are finalized, you’ll receive a shipping quote before completion or final payment.

Safe Handling for One-of-a-Kind Pieces

Commissioned work often involves larger or heavier boards and specialty hardwoods. Each piece is:

  • Carefully wrapped and protected
  • Packed using size-appropriate materials
  • Shipped with carriers suited for weight and dimensions

We prioritize safe arrival over speed or shortcuts.

Deposits & Shipping Timing

  • A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to begin a commission
  • Shipping is calculated separately from the deposit
  • Final payment (including shipping) is due before shipment

This ensures transparency and avoids unexpected costs later in the process.

Freight & Oversized Commissions

For especially large or heavy commissions:

  • Freight shipping may be required
  • White-glove or curbside delivery options may be discussed
  • Additional handling time may apply

If freight is necessary, all options and costs will be clearly communicated before proceeding.

Delivery Timeline

Because commissioned work is handcrafted from start to finish, shipping timelines vary by project.

Estimated timelines will be discussed during the design phase and confirmed before shipment. Tracking information will be provided once your piece ships.

Why Custom Shipping Is Different

Commissioned pieces are not mass-produced or pre-boxed. Shipping reflects:

  • The true weight of solid hardwood
  • Custom packaging materials
  • Carrier requirements for non-standard sizes
  • Careful handling of a one-of-a-kind item

This approach protects both the piece and the investment you’ve made.

Questions Before You Order?

If you have questions about shipping, delivery options, or commission timelines, please reach out before submitting an inquiry. We’re happy to walk through the process with you.