Millwork is an ever-expanding industry with new trends appearing every year. While new products and techniques are always coming out, some of the most popular ones stick around for a while.
When it comes to millwork, trends come and go faster than you might think. So much so that we couldn’t possibly list them all here. However, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on any of them, either!
Keep reading to know what you should anticipate next year if you’re interested in becoming part of the millwork world sooner rather than later.
Digital Millwork Workflows
Millwork has come a long way in the last few years. In addition to new tools and products, digital millwork workflows are becoming increasingly popular.
Digital millwork workflows take the guesswork out of how to make something with wood.
This gives you the ability to create your pieces on the computer before you ever make them for real. Most digital tools offer a series of steps that will help you achieve your desired outcome by using software such as SketchUp or Rhino 3D. These software programs also allow you to create virtual models and renderings of your design so you can see it from every angle before moving forward with production.
The best part is: they’re free! Many companies have seen their user bases explode in recent years because they provide an easy-to-use interface for those looking for a quick start into digital millwork workflows.
3D Printing for Millwork
3D printing has already been on the market for a few years now, but it’s still too early to tell what kind of impact it will have.
3D printers are capable of producing objects from wood, plastic, metal, and even food and other materials. The potential for this technology is limitless and is going to change the way we create things in the future.
While 3D printing will not replace traditional millwork techniques anytime soon, it definitely won’t be long before you start noticing its presence in your workshop.
Robots in the Shop
One of the most popular trends in 2023 will be robots in the shop. The robot revolution has been underway for a while, and many people are expecting more automation to happen in the industry. Whether it is used as a tool or just to help with repetitive tasks, this trend will be here to stay.
This year, we saw many different types of robots. Hot on their heels are hobbyist-friendly kits that you can build with your kids at home. They can even become autonomous and talk to you when you need them to do something specific. While these robots might not replace humans completely just yet, they will certainly help out around the shop and make your life easier in the future.
Building with Composites and Bamboo
Bamboo and composites are two materials that will take your millwork projects to the next level this year. Bamboo is already a very popular material, but composites have just started to become more popular in the last few years.
Composites come in a wide range of colors and textures, as well as some interesting patterns and designs. With these new materials, you can experiment with new looks on old favorites like furniture and art pieces that are both durable and lightweight. They also offer a lot of flexibility because they’re not limited to one shape or size when it comes to use. You can create anything from chairs to bookcases with these new materials.
Bamboo is another type of composite that has been around for millennia but is becoming more widespread due to its beautiful appearance and low cost. These new products offer versatility as well with their ability to be shaped in any way desired by gluing together thin layers of wood at different thicknesses. They are also more durable than lumber because they don’t expand or contract with humidity changes like other woods do, so they resist warping too much over time.
At First Nick Companies, we pride ourselves on our top-quality craftsmanship, and our millwork artisans will always bring the best product to you. Contact us today for more information!
Kosta Kritikos,
President
155-E New Boston Street | Woburn, MA 01801
O: 617.628.5130 x 1002| F: 781.305.3055 | C: 617.592.2290
www.firstnick.com | [email protected]
