Choosing Your Bed
How do I get started?
Here are a few questions you should think about whilst deciding on your four poster bed. This is only a little checklist to get you started, but if you come to us with the answers, we can point you in the right direction:
- What mattress size does the bed need to fit?
- Which bed/s do you like from our range?
- Would you prefer a bed base or wooden slats?
- Do you want a traditional or contemporary design?
- What is your house like? You want them to compliment each other.
- What type of wood do you want the bed to be made from?
- What is the height of your bedroom ceiling?
- What else would you like on your bed? Any drapery? Different posts?
I have an idea of the bed I want, but can't find it on your site. Can you design it?
We are happy to adapt designs, or develop different beds, so you get your dream four poster bed. We charge for what it costs to make the bed, and not a design fee. However because of how busy we are at the moment it can take a bit of time for us to come back with some sketches.
Be aware that although we will do our best to accommodate all requests, we do use solid wood, so therefore do not have the equipment for decorative veneer work.
I want to see some of your beds before I order. Do you have a showroom?
Yes, we have a showroom, with some examples of our four poster beds, bedside cabinets, dining tables, chairs and dressers, colour samples and a wealth of photos to look through. But please call to book an appointment, as we are either very busy making four posters or delivering them, and it is best to discuss your needs with Stephen.
Can you get a four poster in our bedroom?
We have not failed yet. Most of the four poster beds are 78″ or 84″ high as standard- we have had to make a bed 72″ high to go under a beam some years ago, and are happy to alter designs where possible. Components will go through normal doorways, and if the mattress will go up the stairs and into the room, the rest of the bed is sure to.
We aren't sure which colour to choose from your web site. Can you help?
Of course! We never recommend choosing the finish purely from what you have seen on our site- different computer monitors can show beds up in different colours. We will prepare some colour samples in the wood you like, and post them out to you.
We have our bedroom furniture already- can you polish our four poster to match in?
Yes, as long as the wood is the same. We ask that you either provide a small sample, or a photograph, for our polisher to work from and we will do the rest.
Do you make other bedroom furniture to match?
We will custom make bedside cabinets, dressing tables, chests of drawers, wardrobes, etc. to match your bed and suit your room. If you go for a four poster bed with gothic arch panels, then it looks great to have a couple of bedside cabinets with the same panel in the door. The same could be applied to a storage box, and even a wardrobe. If we can get an idea of the sizes you want the pieces to be, we can better provide an estimate.
We like the look of oak, but didn't want to spend that much, any ideas?
English ash is a good alternative. It can be hand planed to give the ‘old’ look, and takes a dark oak stain really well. However, the grain will be a little different. What we can do is send out both oak and ash colour samples to help you decide.
Can we have different panels, with different posts?
Yes, we will mix and match the beds to create the style you want. You can go for different panels on the foot board to the head board, and even just go for one carved panel if you like. When it comes to posts there are all different options, and Stephen is happy to adapt designs so you get exactly what you want.
Can you carve decoration onto a bed?
Yes, we can carve most types of decoration, but for the more intricate work we may use dedicated carvers. These dedicated carvers are busy, so lead time will depend entirely on their situation- it could not be finished quickly.
I'm from America and your mattress sizes do not match what I need. Can you make the bed to American sizes?
Yes! Please check out our US website which includes prices for US Mattress sizes.
Can you make a single four poster bed?
Yes, we can make to any size and any style. To gain an idea of price, they are normally around two thirds of the cost of a king size four poster (60″ x 78″). This may sound expensive in comparison but, although the material costs are nearly half, the joint system is identical to that used on a full size bed.
Choosing Your Bed
Are the bed drapes included in the prices shown with each bed?
Drapes are extra, but there are so many options to choose from you are sure to find something to suit your budget.
Do you make the drapes to go with the bed?
We have an excellent seamstress who will handmake drapes to suit your taste. We now have a standard range of fabrics and colours on the website that you can choose from. But, of course, if you fancy something a little different all you have to do is ask!
We've only just replaced our window curtains. Could drapery be made for the bed that would match them?
Our upholsterer is happy to try and match to existing bedroom curtains where possible, or she is more than willing to help you decide on a colour scheme that will blend in nicely with all your existing upholstery.
How much do the drapes cost?
This will depend on the material used to make them,and how complicated they are. Prices start from £680. See our Upholstery page for more details.
What do the curtains hang from?
We provide a brass rail around the inside of the cornice from which the curtains can hang. The valence can then be put on the cornice with velcro; this makes removal for washing very easy.