The Mennonites and the Amish are descendants from two separate but similar groups who immigrated to Canada and the United States nearly 200 years ago in search of a new life. In most cases, they built durable and beautiful wooden trunks to seal their possessions in for the dangerous journey across the Atlantic Ocean. Once settled into their new communities, these two religious groups utilized their superior woodworking skills to continue making more furniture.
What is the Difference Between Amish and Mennonites
While both groups have a strong commitment to faith, family and community, there are some subtle differences between the Amish and the Mennonites. The Amish are more conservative when it comes to their outward appearance and embracing new technology. Whereas the Mennonites can drive a car, use a smartphone or use electricity if desired.
Benefits of Amish and Mennonite Furniture
Both Mennonite and Amish woodworkers are passionate about their craft, and that’s why every piece of furniture they create is done with superior quality and attention to detail. Here are a few examples of what makes Mennonite Amish woodworks superior to today’s mass-produced furniture in big box stores:
Only Solid Wood
There is no cheap MDF, particle board or plastic used in any of their creations. Most prefer to create wardrobes, beds, tables and chairs. These are all made from strong, beautiful and durable woods such as brown maple, oak, cherry or hickory.
Superior Craftsmanship
Every piece of furniture is handcrafted with a personal touch. From sanding to staining and sealing — each step is completed slowly and carefully to ensure a perfect presentation of the finished product.
No Electricity Usage
The Amish and Mennonites are known for mostly ditching electricity in favour of the old way of doing things. But aside from hand tools such as hammers, saws and chisels, some groups will use pneumatic drills and other air-powered tools run by a diesel engine.
No nails or screws
Over centuries, the Amish and Mennonites have perfected the use of special joints such as mortise-and-tenon, dovetails and rabbets to join the beautiful pieces of wood together. The seamless look of this furniture is highly preferred by people who want a traditional and classy aesthetic.
Incredible Sustainability & Nature Friendly
Amish and Mennonite workers only use locally sourced woods and other materials. This dramatically reduces the carbon footprint of the whole enterprise. They also use organic compounds to varnish and protect the wood.
Where To Find Amish Furniture Store
It’s never been easier to find a Mennonite store or Amish store that sells this type of furniture. Simply by looking up either term online, you’ll see a great internet presence for these various companies. You can also check out your local farmer’s market or wholesale outposts near your community as many families sell their furniture at these retail hubs.
Contact Us
If you’re looking for a level of quality and craftsmanship associated with the Amish and Mennonite workers then Heft Home is the place for you. You can find your next coffee table, wardrobe, bedroom set and so much more. We incorporate the live edge look and fastener-free construction to create beautiful, durable pieces of furniture that you can pass down in your family for generations. Visit our website today.