Cosmetic Standards & Care

Knots form where branches were enclosed in the trunk. Because we use the whole tree, knots of varying size and shape will be present, and small cracks may appear within them. These don’t affect structural integrity.

Seasonal cracks and splits may open from time to time with changes in humidity and sunlight. This is normal in solid tropical hardwood and, as long as the crack isn’t excessive, doesn’t affect the structure.

Checks are hairline cracks caused by natural tree movement. Air conditioning, heating and sunlight can make them open and close over time. Some touch-up with a stain marker may be needed.

Tropical hardwoods have strong grain and color variation. It’s what makes each piece a one-of-a-kind work of art.

Minerals like iron, phosphate and calcium in the soil can leave rings, circles, lines or darker and lighter shades in the grain. These are unavoidable and natural.

Some knots and wind cracks are filled with high-quality epoxy filler that lasts the life of the furniture. We blend the color as closely as possible, but filler may be visible. Using filler means no part of the wood goes to waste.

Reclaimed wood often needs patches where it was used in old buildings. We match grain and color as closely as possible, but patches may show. Butterfly joints strengthen panels where cracks are present. Both are signs of the craftsmanship reclaimed wood requires.

Our cast iron is recast from scrap iron and steel using age-old sand-casting methods and hand-poured into molds. Light rust, oxidation, small dents, casting pits and traces of grease are normal characteristics.

Our primary construction method. Interlocking wood joints create exceptional strength, a technique used for centuries before modern glues.

Solid wood needs room to breathe. Panels sit in a tongue-and-groove frame, and tops attach with slotted metal clips, so the wood can expand and contract without cracking.

Interlocking dovetail joints keep drawers strong through daily use. Drawers are solid wood, with wood or metal glides and drawer stops.

Turned components are shaped and sanded by hand on the lathe, giving each leg and spindle its own character.

Used on mango, acacia and neem. A hand-applied patina is sanded back by hand, then sealed with two sealer coats and two lacquer coats, and finished with a final polish. Our glues, stains and finishes are low-VOC and/or water-based. Reclaimed wood is typically left unsealed, so wipe spills right away.

A fast-growing, dense hardwood comparable to cherry or ash, regularly replanted as a major food crop.

Extremely dense and long-lasting, harvested under government and forestry standards, and mature in about 5 years. Comparable to mesquite.

Prized for beauty, durability and moisture resistance. Often reclaimed from support beams in old palaces and forts across India.

No chemicals or citrus cleaners needed. Wipe with a cloth dampened in warm water and mild soap. Avoid scratching, very hot items and acetone or nail polish remover.

Small air cracks and white lines along glued seams can appear as wood moves over time. Run a stain marker along the mark so it gets into the grooves, wipe the surface clean, let it dry and repeat if needed. For larger finish damage, an authorized Mohawk repair specialist can restore almost any finish.