The secrets of steam bending

Steam bending is a traditional artform that has been used by crafts people for centuries to create beautiful curving shapes out of wood. At Highwood furniture in Perthshire steam bending is a technique that finds its way into a number of designs. Pictured is Colin’s recognisable loopy desk and chair, and this week the technique is being utilised in our workshop to create some curved supports for a fitted hallway console table. Below you can watch a video of one of our steam bends.

What Is Steam Bending?

Steam bending is a wood-working technique that allows wood to be bent into smooth, graceful curves using heat and moisture. By slowly heating the timber in a steam box the wood fibres are softened, making the material pliable without compromising its strength or structural integrity. Once cooled and dried, the wood retains its new shape, creating distinctive, curved furniture designs that are both strong and elegant.

Why We Use Steam Bending in Our Furniture Making

At Highwwod Furniture, we use steam bending to create organic, flowing forms where they can't be replicated through traditional cutting or joinery.

Benefits of steam bending include:

• Durability: Unlike segmented curves, steam-bent wood maintains its grain structure, making it stronger and longer-lasting.

• Sustainability: Steam bending reduces the need for adhesives or fasteners, resulting in a more eco-friendly manufacturing process.

• Visual Appeal: The curves achieved through steam bending add a natural elegance to chairs, tables, and custom pieces that elevate any interior space.

Our Steam Bending Process

1. Wood Selection: Not all woods are ideal for steam bending. We choose the timber based on the project, with ash being a particularly good choice for steam bending projects

2. Steaming: The wood is placed in a steam box, where it’s exposed to high humidity and temperatures. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the wood's thickness.

3. Bending: Once steamed, the wood is quickly clamped into a custom mold or form to achieve the desired curve.

4. Drying & Setting: The bent piece remains in the form until fully dried, ensuring it holds its shape permanently.

Where You’ll See Steam Bent Designs in Our Work

From the smooth arms of a handcrafted rocking chair to the sweeping legs of a modern dining table, steam bending allows us to bring unique curves and ergonomic shapes to life. It’s ideal for:

• Dining chairs

• Lounge chairs

• Rockers

• Headboards

• Sculptural furniture pieces

Custom Steam Bent Furniture for Your Home

Looking for a bespoke piece that combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design? Our custom steam bent furniture is made to order, tailored to your space, and built to last a lifetime. Whether you're designing a minimalist home or a rustic retreat, our curved wood furniture adds warmth, artistry, and character.

Why Choose Us for Steam Bent Furniture?

• Master Craftsmanship: With years of experience, our furniture makers are experts in steam bending and traditional woodworking.

• Sustainably Sourced Materials: We use responsibly harvested hardwoods and eco-conscious methods.

• Custom Design Options: Choose your wood, finish, dimensions, and shape — we’ll take care of the rest.

Let’s Build Something Beautiful Together

Ready to bring the timeless beauty of steam bent wood into your home? Contact us today to discuss your custom project, or browse our latest collection of handcrafted steam bent furniture.

For further information in anything in our blogs feel free to get in touch.

Or reach out if you would like to find out more about commissioning a Highwood piece: counters for business premises, kitchens, tables, cabinets, fitted bedrooms, chairs, beds, wardrobes, shelving, sgian dubhs, jewellery, wholesale gifts, and many more. Design visits can be organised throughout Tayside; Perthshire, Angus, Dundee, and Fife. Online consultations are available for those based further away in Scotland and the UK.