Business Details
Custom Handcrafted Wooden Furniture & Artistic Wood Sculptures
Blackwater Woodworks is a small art and design studio dedicated to creating functional wooden objects that highlight the natural beauty of locally sourced hardwoods. Founded by artist and craftsman Rick Laufer, our studio has spent over two decades crafting unique, signed, and dated furniture pieces that blend artistry with ergonomic design. Our work has been featured in prestigious publications such as The Taunton Press Custom Furniture Source Book and 500 Chairs, as well as in galleries and craft shows nationwide, including the Paradise City Arts Festival and the American Craft Council Baltimore event.Each piece begins with a hand-drawn sketch, emphasizing form, flow, and tactile comfort. We employ traditional joinery techniques like mortise and tenon joints, complemented by modern tools, to ensure structural integrity and aesthetic harmony. Our commitment to quality is evident in our meticulous selection of kiln-dried black walnut, cherry, and tiger maple, finished with a hand-rubbed oil wax blend. Recognized with awards such as the Niche Magazine award, we continue to innovate while maintaining a deep respect for craftsmanship and material authenticity.
Services
Custom Chairs
Sculpted Benches
Handcrafted Tables
Wood Sculptures
Custom Furniture Design
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in custom wooden furniture design.
- Our pieces use sustainably sourced local hardwoods for superior quality.
- Each item is ergonomically tested for comfort and functionality.
- Award-winning designs featured in major craft publications and shows.
- We combine traditional joinery with modern precision for durability.
Associations and certifications
- Niche Magazine
Services
Custom Chairs
Handcrafted chairs designed for ergonomic comfort and aesthetic flow. Each piece uses locally sourced hardwoods, precision joinery, and hand-rubbed finishes. Our chairs feature sculpted curves and tailored proportions, ensuring both durability and visual harmony. Ideal for collectors and those seeking functional art in their living spaces.
Sculpted Benches
Bench designs blending gentle curves with practical utility. Available in black walnut or cherry, these pieces serve as entryway accents, bedroom focal points, or soft coffee tables with cushioned tops. Crafted using traditional joinery and finished for long-term resilience.
Handcrafted Tables
Tables tailored to specific dimensions and wood types, ranging from side tables to large dining tables. Each creation emphasizes natural wood grain and structural integrity, using mortise and tenon joints for lasting stability and timeless design.
People
Rick Laufer
Owner & Lead Craftsman
Rick Laufer is a master woodworker with over 20 years of experience creating functional art. His work has been featured in national exhibitions and publications, earning awards for innovative design and craftsmanship.
Questions
What materials do you use for your furniture?
We use sustainably sourced black walnut, cherry, and tiger maple, selected for grain and durability.
Can I customize the size or design of a piece?
Yes, we create custom pieces to your specifications, including dimensions and wood type.
How are your chairs tested for comfort?
Each chair undergoes ergonomic testing to ensure proper angles and support for long-term use.
Do you ship outside the United States?
We can arrange international shipping upon request for most furniture pieces.
Are your finishes safe for indoor use?
Yes, we use a natural hand-rubbed oil wax blend that is non-toxic and durable.
Where can I see your work in person?
Our furniture is displayed at events like the Paradise City Arts Festival and in galleries nationwide.
