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JUNE 2005 BEAVER COUNTY FRONT By jennifer papale rignani Don French of Economy Borough says he always had a passion for working with wood. The problem was, too much of his work was getting trampled. The one-time carpenter had been specializing in custom hardwood floors, which he loved, but he often wished there was a way to work with exotic woods in other ways. In the early ’90s, over dinner with friends, he discussed the constraints he was facing. More and more, consumers were seeking beautiful imported woods for their floors. But how to better showcase unique materials like Jamaican Red Bullet or Brazilian walnut? His long-time friend, glass designer Don Gould, said, “Your problem is you can’t take it with you. People leave houses and floors behind. Why not make things they can keep forever?” It was then that French knew what he needed to do. Applying his exceptional woodworking skills, which also included detailed inlay work, he began making small pieces of furniture for friends and family. The business grew over time, and he eventually started a business alliance with another shop. In 2004, he officially launched French Brothers Custom Furniture Inc. This year, he projects that he will create nearly 100 pieces of custom-wood inlayed furniture and hopes to expand his business. He also expects to produce kitchen-cabinet faces, mantels and mirror frames over the next year. Each item, which could be a custom-creation or duplicate, takes about six to eight weeks to create. His favorite project so far? An oak table with a braided inlay. With a goal of permanence and durability, French says he hopes that what he creates will still be around in 100 or 200 years. French Brothers Custom Furniture is available at Equitor, 3052 Smallman St., Strip District, or by calling 724/869-2105. |
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