Bassett Furniture has been a staple in American homes for over a century. Known for its solid wood construction and timeless designs, the company has evolved from a small Virginia factory into a nationally recognized brand. In this article, we’ll walk through Bassett’s history, give you practical tips for buying their furniture, and help you avoid common pitfalls.
From Humble Beginnings: The Founding of Bassett Furniture
In 1902, John D. Bassett and his family started a small furniture factory in Bassett, Virginia. The town itself was named after the family, and the company quickly gained a reputation for producing affordable, well-made bedroom and dining room sets. By the 1920s, Bassett was one of the largest furniture manufacturers in the South. They focused on using local hardwoods like oak and cherry, which kept costs down and quality high. This commitment to American-made craftsmanship became the foundation of the brand.
Growth and Innovation: The Mid-20th Century
After World War II, Bassett expanded rapidly. They introduced new styles like mid-century modern and colonial revival, appealing to the booming suburban market. In the 1960s, Bassett became a publicly traded company and opened multiple factories. They were also early adopters of kiln-dried wood, which prevents warping and cracking. During this era, Bassett furniture was known for its durability—many pieces from the 1950s and 60s are still in use today. If you come across vintage Bassett, inspect the joinery: dovetail drawers and mortise-and-tenon joints are signs of quality.
Modern Era: Customization and Direct-to-Consumer
In the 2000s, Bassett shifted focus to custom-order furniture. Instead of mass-producing identical pieces, they now offer thousands of fabric and finish options. This allows you to design a sofa or table that fits your exact space and style. However, customization means longer lead times (typically 4-6 weeks). When ordering, always order swatches first—colors on a screen can be misleading. Also, check the frame construction: ask if it’s solid hardwood or engineered wood. Bassett’s higher-end lines use kiln-dried hardwood frames with sinuous spring suspensions, which are more durable.
How to Evaluate Bassett Furniture Quality: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Check the Wood Type. Solid wood (oak, cherry, maple) is best. Avoid pieces labeled “select hardwoods” or “engineered wood” if you want longevity.
Step 2: Inspect Drawers and Doors. Look for dovetail joints on drawers and soft-close hinges on cabinets. If the drawer bottom is thin plywood, it may sag over time.
Step 3: Test the Cushions. For upholstery, ask about cushion fill. High-resiliency foam wrapped in down is a good balance of comfort and support. Avoid polyurethane foam alone—it breaks down quickly.
Step 4: Examine the Finish. Run your hand over the surface. It should feel smooth, with no rough spots or drips. A quality finish protects the wood and enhances the grain.
Step 5: Read the Warranty. Bassett offers a limited lifetime warranty on frames and springs. Make sure you understand what’s covered—fabric wear and cushions are usually excluded.
Common Mistakes When Buying Bassett Furniture
Mistake 1: Assuming All Bassett Is the Same. Bassett has multiple lines—some are budget-friendly, others are premium. The lower-priced lines may use plywood instead of solid wood. Always check the product details.
Mistake 2: Ignoring Dimensions. Bassett’s custom sizes are a plus, but if you buy a standard piece, measure your space and doorways. Many returns happen because a sofa won’t fit through the door.
Mistake 3: Skipping Swatches. Fabric and finish samples are free. Don’t guess—colors vary drastically from screen to room lighting.
Mistake 4: Not Considering Delivery. Bassett offers in-home delivery and setup, but it costs extra. If you’re on a budget, ask about curbside delivery and assemble yourself.
Mistake 5: Overlooking Sales. Bassett runs seasonal sales (President’s Day, Memorial Day, etc.). Sign up for their email list to get notified. You can save 20-30% on custom orders during these events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Bassett Furniture still made in the USA?
A: Many Bassett pieces are still made in the US, but some components may be imported. Look for “Made in USA” labels or ask a sales associate for country of origin.
Q: How long does Bassett Furniture last?
A: With proper care, solid wood Bassett pieces can last decades. Upholstered items typically last 7-15 years, depending on usage and fabric quality.
Q: Does Bassett offer financing?
A: Yes, they often have promotional financing options like 12 months no interest. Check current offers on their website.
Q: Can I return custom furniture?
A: Custom orders are non-returnable, so be sure about your choices. Stock items usually have a 30-day return policy, but may incur a restocking fee.
Conclusion
Bassett Furniture’s 120-year history is a testament to American craftsmanship and adaptability. Whether you’re buying a vintage piece or a custom sofa, focus on construction details, measure carefully, and take advantage of swatches and sales. By avoiding common mistakes, you can invest in furniture that will serve your family for years. Remember: a well-made Bassett piece is not just furniture—it’s a piece of history.