Old Hickory Tannery Reviews: Is Their Heirloom Furniture Worth It?
Choosing new furniture, especially a significant piece like a leather sofa, is one of the most stressful decisions for a homeowner. You are not just buying an object; you are investing in the future comfort and style of your living space. The fear of making the wrong choice—of spending thousands on something that peels, sags, or breaks within a few years—is a major hurdle for many.
This is where the quest for quality craftsmanship leads many to brands like Old Hickory Tannery. Known for its American-made, hand-crafted leather furniture, the name itself evokes a sense of tradition and durability. This guide will provide a comprehensive, unbiased review to help you determine if their pieces are the right long-term investment for your home.
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Why Quality Leather Furniture Is a Critical Home Investment
In a world of fast furniture, the decision to purchase a high-end leather sofa or chair is a commitment to longevity. The primary problem homeowners face is navigating a market saturated with confusing terms and misleading labels. Terms like “bonded leather,” “sinuous springs,” and “engineered wood frames” can obscure the true quality of a piece, leading to disappointing purchases.
A well-made piece of leather furniture should be viewed as an heirloom in the making. It should withstand daily life, develop a beautiful patina over time, and provide consistent comfort for decades. Understanding the foundational elements of construction is the first step toward making a purchase you won’t regret.
Unpacking the Old Hickory Tannery Legacy: More Than Just a Name
Nestled in Hickory, North Carolina, a region synonymous with fine American furniture, Old Hickory Tannery has built a reputation for preserving traditional manufacturing techniques. With decades of experience, the company prides itself on creating “antiques of the future.” This commitment is not just a marketing slogan; it is reflected in the materials they use and the methods they employ.
Supporting a family-owned, American-based company also means investing in a local economy and a tradition of artisanship. Their focus is not on mass production but on creating customized, bench-made pieces tailored to each customer, combining timeless design with meticulous construction.
The Cornerstone of Quality: Frame and Suspension
The integrity of any sofa or chair begins with its skeleton. Old Hickory Tannery utilizes solid hardwood frames that are kiln-dried to prevent warping and cracking over time. This is a critical distinction from cheaper alternatives that use plywood or particleboard, which can easily break under stress. The joints of these frames are often double-doweled and glued, ensuring a robust structure that can withstand years of use.
Perhaps the most celebrated feature of their construction is the eight-way hand-tied spring system. This labor-intensive process involves skilled artisans hand-tying each coil spring to the frame in eight different directions. This intricate web of interconnected springs distributes weight evenly, providing exceptional support and preventing the sagging that plagues lesser-quality furniture.
Decoding the Leather: What Are You Actually Sitting On?
The term “leather” can be misleading. Many mass-market sofas are upholstered in “bonded leather,” which consists of leather scraps and fibers glued to a backing. This material is notorious for peeling and cracking. In contrast, high-end manufacturers use superior grades of real cowhide.
Old Hickory Tannery primarily uses full-grain and top-grain leathers, which are the highest quality cuts. Full-grain leather is the most natural, showing the hide’s original markings and developing a rich patina over time. Top-grain leather has been lightly sanded to remove imperfections, resulting in a more uniform appearance while retaining excellent durability.
The Verdict: Old Hickory Tannery Reviews from Real Homeowners
Aggregating feedback from design forums, customer reviews, and testimonials reveals a consistent picture of the brand. Homeowners repeatedly praise the comfort and durability of their furniture, with many noting that their sofas and chairs still look and feel great after more than a decade of use. The beauty of the leather as it ages is another common point of satisfaction.
However, no brand is without its potential downsides. The most frequently mentioned drawback is the higher price point, which is to be expected for handcrafted furniture. Some customers have also noted long lead times for custom orders, a byproduct of the bench-made manufacturing process. It is important to set realistic expectations regarding both cost and delivery when considering a purchase.
How to Choose Your Perfect Old Hickory Tannery Piece
Selecting the right piece of furniture requires careful consideration of your lifestyle and space. Start by meticulously measuring your room to ensure a proper fit. Think about how the furniture will be used—a sofa for a formal living room has different requirements than one for a busy family den with kids and pets.
Next, consider the specific leather type and color. Old Hickory Tannery offers a wide array of options, from buttery-soft aniline leathers to more protected semi-aniline finishes. Finally, evaluate the style. Their collection ranges from classic Chesterfield sofas to sleek, modern designs, ensuring there is a piece to complement nearly any home decor.
A Closer Look at Leather Options
Understanding the different types of leather available is key to making a choice that suits your needs. Each type offers a unique combination of look, feel, and durability. Consulting a detailed comparison can help clarify which leather is best for your household.
| Feature | Aniline Leather | Semi-Aniline Leather | Pigmented Leather |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Most natural, shows all markings | Natural look with a light protective coat | Uniform, opaque color |
| Feel | Soft, warm, and buttery | Soft and smooth | Less soft, slightly stiffer |
| Durability | Prone to scratching and staining | More resistant to wear and stains | Highly durable and easy to clean |
| Best For | Low-traffic areas, adult households | Homes with children and pets | High-traffic areas, commercial use |
Maintaining Your Investment: Long-Term Leather Care
Proper care is essential to preserving the beauty and longevity of your leather furniture. Avoid placing your furniture in direct sunlight, as this can cause the leather to fade and dry out over time. Regularly dust the surface with a soft, dry cloth to prevent dirt buildup in the grain.
For minor spills, blot the area immediately with a clean, absorbent cloth. It is advisable to use a high-quality leather conditioner once or twice a year to keep the hide supple and prevent cracking. Consistent home maintenance is key; just as you would investigate a strange tapping noise in the roof space at night to prevent larger issues, proactive care for your furniture preserves its value.
Is Old Hickory Tannery the Right Choice for Your Home?
Ultimately, the decision to invest in Old Hickory Tannery furniture depends on your priorities. If you value American craftsmanship, heirloom quality, and long-term durability over a low upfront cost, then this brand is an excellent contender. Their commitment to using premium materials and traditional construction techniques results in furniture that is built to last for generations.
Investing in a high-quality sofa is a significant home project, far different from smaller DIY tasks where one might wonder, “can I use grout as plaster?” for a temporary solution. For the discerning buyer who wants a centerpiece for their home that offers enduring comfort and style, Old Hickory Tannery presents a compelling option. Ensuring your home is prepared for all seasons is also crucial for comfort, and just as you’d feel stranded if your snowblower electric start not working during a blizzard, you want your primary seating to be steadfast and reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Old Hickory Tannery furniture good quality?
Old Hickory Tannery is renowned for producing high-quality, American-made furniture. They are known for their traditional craftsmanship, utilizing techniques like hand-tied springs and solid hardwood frames to ensure durability. The company prides itself on creating “antiques of the future,” suggesting a focus on long-lasting, heirloom-quality pieces.
Where is Old Hickory Tannery furniture made?
All Old Hickory Tannery furniture is proudly handcrafted in the USA. Their manufacturing facilities are located in Hickory, North Carolina, a region with a rich history of furniture making. The company has over 50 years of experience in creating bespoke upholstered items in this location.
What is the price range for Old Hickory Tannery furniture?
Old Hickory Tannery furniture is positioned in the higher-end market, reflecting its quality craftsmanship and materials. Prices can vary significantly depending on the piece and the retailer. For example, accent chairs can be found in the thousands, while larger items like sofas and sectionals can cost well over $10,000.
How should I care for my Old Hickory Tannery leather furniture?
To maintain your leather furniture, it’s recommended to dust it regularly with a soft, dry cloth. For more thorough cleaning, you can use a cloth slightly dampened with a mild soap and water solution, then wipe it dry. It’s important to avoid placing the furniture in direct sunlight and to keep it away from heat sources to prevent the leather from drying out and fading.
What is the warranty on Old Hickory Tannery furniture?
The warranty on Old Hickory Tannery furniture can vary as it is often determined by the retailer selling the product. Generally, products are sold with a manufacturer’s warranty, but the specific terms and length can differ. It’s important to note that warranties may not cover labor or transportation costs after the first year.
What is the return policy for Old Hickory Tannery furniture?
Return policies for Old Hickory Tannery furniture are set by the individual retailers. Some retailers may offer a return window, such as 7 days after receipt, but often charge a significant restocking fee and do not refund shipping costs. It is also common for custom-made or “made to order” pieces to be non-returnable.
Final Words
Old Hickory Tannery is widely regarded as a premier choice for heirloom furniture, earning high marks for its traditional American craftsmanship. Reviewers frequently highlight the brand’s use of eight-way hand-tied springs, solid hardwood frames, and premium leathers. While the price point is significant—often reaching five figures for larger pieces—the consensus is that the durability and timeless “antiques of the future” aesthetic justify the investment for those seeking long-term value.
Ultimately, if you prioritize bespoke quality and domestic artistry, their pieces are worth it. Customers appreciate the extensive customization options, though some note that the firm, high-quality builds may require a “break-in” period for maximum comfort. For a home intended to span generations, Old Hickory Tannery remains a top-tier contender.
