Custom Work

Yes, we do accept custom work, but please understand that we will only take on those projects which allow us to create a finished product that is of the same heirloom quality as our other Wisdom In Wood® carvings.

If you are interested in having us create a high quality custom quotation, saying, motto or other carved project for you, please first read the following information and then contact us at CustomerCare@WisdomInWood.com if you would like to proceed.

The development costs for each of the carvings on our website have been incurred by us which allows us to price them competitively for you. Prior to actual production of a piece for sale, we create prototypes in inexpensive lumber to test how they will carve, so each new design is carved at least twice before going into production.

Given this and other costs to develop a carving, it is understandable that custom work using our standard carving sizes (6” X 32” X 3/4” or 8” X 32” X 3/4”) will generally be in the $500 to $1,000 range – and sometimes more depending on the design, wood and other customer specifications. We can do work of most any size, but custom work that is not one of our standard sizes requires additional preparation which can add to the cost.

However, please be aware we already have a long list of quotes, mottos and sayings planned for future development. Based on customer requests, we have occasionally been able to move a carving to the top of the list. If the custom carving you would like us to create is already on our list, we may be able to incur the development costs for you and offer the finished piece to you at our usual prices. This does mean the new design can then be made available for others to purchase.

Custom Work FAQ

Terms for Custom Work: Given the significant differences between the typical order placement process and the process for creating a custom carving, we have prepared a separate Terms and Conditions for Custom Work agreement which will be provided when both parties are prepared to proceed. For custom work, this agreement supersedes any other potentially conflicting terms which may be found in our other policies and procedures.

Woods for Custom Work: Our usual woods are quartersawn white oak, cherry and mahogany, but other woods may be available upon request. Of course, we cannot stock all species and sizes, so special order fees may apply.

Selecting Wood Figure: Depending on your custom carving design and style, we may recommend - or you can choose - using wood stock of either High or Low figure.

Carvings for Outdoor Use: Virtually all outdoor finishes ultimately fail over time and we will not apply them. If you would like a carving for outdoor use, we often recommend an unfinished mahogany which will weather to a nice silver-grey over time (and never need refinishing). Another option would be for us to provide an unfinished carving so the customer can apply and maintain the finish of their choosing.

Finishes Available from Us: We have worked hard to perfect our finishing processes and will be happy to apply one of our in-house finishes to your custom carving work.

Finish Matching: We will not attempt to match our finish to another. If this is your interest, we can provide you with an unfinished carving for you or your contractor to finish.