Painting furniture backs.

The question I often encounter is whether or not I paint the backs of my pieces. My typical response is no, but there are a few exceptions. 

Allow me to share with you my top three reasons for this decision.

1. Not visible...

The majority of backs go unnoticed, constantly pressed against a wall. Any paint on them would be useless and unappreciated.  I make sure the corners are wrapped thoroughly, leaving no unfinished portions visible from any angle.

There may be times when certain items, such as centre pieces or occasional tables, are showcased in the middle of a room. If I believe that their back side will also be visible, i will ensure it has a proper finish.

2. It is not done by "them."

Have you ever noticed the backs of factory finished furniture? Neither have I. Take a look at Ikea, Stag or any other furniture and check out the backs. While many may have particle board backing, those with wooden backing rarely match the front. And if you pull out a drawer, you'll likely see that the staining stops where it's no longer visible.

I aim to maintain the individuality and exclusivity of my hand-painted, made-to-order pieces, rather than simply replicating a factory finish. My goal is to achieve the high level of quality found in a factory finish while also showcasing the distinctive character of each unique piece.

3. In order to safeguard the history 

The backs typically reveal the history behind a piece. Manufacturers often label them with dates, brands, or line details, and once covered, this information is lost forever. 

Different brands utilize stamping and numbering to indicate a piece's production date.  Additional information, like paper labels attached to the back or stamps from moving companies, can reveal the origins and journeys of these pieces. For me, these details are what give a piece its unique story - a record of its age and travels, much like luggage stickers or passport stamps. These stories are what make handmade furniture stand out.

I do enjoy painting furniture and transforming it into a showpiece. However, I also recognize the importance of knowing when to stop.

I attach an additional luggage tag to the back and send it off on its travels.