Stickley Furniture Tables: Quality and Timeless Craftsmanship Guide
Posted by Mission Motif on Nov 25th 2025
Stickley furniture tables embody the perfect balance between form, function, and enduring craftsmanship. Each table tells a story of American woodworking excellence, handcrafted from solid hardwood to provide strength, beauty, and timeless appeal.
At The Mission Motif, we admire how Stickley’s dedication to authentic design continues to shape homes with heirloom-quality pieces. Every table reflects the brand’s commitment to integrity, built not for trends but for generations of daily use and appreciation.
In this guide, you’ll learn how Stickley tables are made, how to identify authentic craftsmanship, and how to care for them so they remain as enduring as the legacy behind their creation.
Overview of Stickley Furniture Tables
Stickley furniture tables combine strong craftsmanship with simple, purposeful design. They reflect a clear respect for materials and lasting quality that fits well in homes seeking both function and beauty.
When you choose a Stickley table, expect durable construction, authentic historical roots, and carefully selected materials.

History and Legacy of Stickley
Stickley furniture dates back to the early 20th century, founded by the Stickley brothers, who were leaders in the Arts and Crafts movement. This movement emphasized handcrafted quality and honest design over mass production.
Their furniture, including tables, was designed to be both beautiful and practical. The Stickley brothers helped shape American furniture style by focusing on solid construction and modest decoration.
Their work became known for its durability and timeless appeal. Stickley tables became treasured heirlooms passed down through generations.
How the Arts and Crafts Movement Shaped Stickley Tables
The Arts and Crafts movement inspired a return to honest design and traditional craftsmanship at the turn of the 20th century. According to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this philosophy valued natural materials, simplicity, and the visible beauty of skilled workmanship.
These same principles guided Gustav Stickley and continue to influence each table’s design today, emphasizing integrity over ornament.
Defining Characteristics of Stickley Tables
Stickley tables are known for their sturdy, straightforward design and attention to detail. You’ll often see clean lines, visible joinery, and minimal ornamentation typical of Mission and Arts & Crafts styles.
These tables avoid excessive decoration, focusing instead on wood grain and solid form. Details like exposed mortise-and-tenon joints, simple drawer pulls, and slightly tapered legs show the craftsmanship behind each piece.
The design is meant to blend with many home styles while providing a functional surface for daily use.
Materials Used in Construction
Stickley tables are made mostly from solid hardwoods such as oak and cherry. These woods are chosen for their strength, grain, and ability to age well over time.
The selection process ensures only durable, quality wood is used, contributing to the table’s longevity. Finishes are applied to highlight the natural beauty of the wood rather than cover it up.
Stains range from light to darker tones, allowing you to pick the style that best suits your home. The emphasis on real wood and handcrafted quality means your Stickley table will remain beautiful and sturdy for decades.
Popular Types of Stickley Tables
Stickley tables are crafted with solid hardwood and showcase timeless design rooted in the Arts & Crafts tradition. Each table type offers functionality balanced with classic style, making them ideal for various rooms and uses in your home.
Dining Tables
Stickley dining tables are known for their sturdy construction and elegant, mission-style simplicity. Most are made from oak or cherry wood, with finishes that highlight the natural grain.
You can find round, rectangular, and pedestal-style tables that fit different dining room sizes. Many tables come with extendable leaves, allowing you to adjust the size for gatherings and everyday use.
For example, the Stickley Round Pedestal table starts at 52 inches in diameter and extends to 82 inches with two leaves. These tables provide lasting durability and a welcoming feel for family meals or entertaining guests.
Coffee Tables
Coffee tables by Stickley emphasize a clean, functional design with a focus on woodworking details like mortise-and-tenon joints. They often feature drawers or shelves, giving you extra storage space for books or decor.
Their solid wood construction ensures the table will hold up over years of daily use. The mission style often includes straight lines and exposed joinery, which you will notice in the thoughtful details of each coffee table. This design makes the tables blend well in both traditional and modern living rooms.
End Tables
Stickley end tables are designed to complement sofas and chairs with a size and style that fit close by. These tables typically include drawers or lower shelves that help keep your space organized while adding to the room’s handcrafted look.
The pieces are built with the same care as larger tables, but are scaled for smaller spaces next to your seating areas. Their hardwood frames and mission-style accents provide durability and a cohesive look in any living space.
Console Tables
Console tables serve as versatile pieces in entryways, hallways, or behind sofas. Stickley consoles showcase clean lines and solid wood materials, delivering both strength and style in narrow spaces.
Many come with drawers or shelves, letting you store keys, mail, or decorative items conveniently. The traditional mission approach keeps the design simple yet refined.
Design Styles and Collections
Stickley furniture tables offer distinct styles to suit your taste and home. You can choose from classic Mission designs, contemporary modern options, or timeless traditional collections. Each style highlights quality craftsmanship and materials built to last.
Mission Style
Mission-style tables are known for their simple, clean lines and sturdy construction. They feature solid hardwood, often oak or cherry, with visible joinery like mortise-and-tenon that shows off expert craftsmanship.
This style focuses on function and form without unnecessary decoration. You’ll find signature elements like slatted sides and flat panels, which make the design unmistakably Arts & Crafts.
These tables fit well in casual and formal settings, offering durability for daily use. Stickley’s Mission tables often come with customizable finishes and hardware to match your home.
Modern Collections
The modern collections from Stickley blend traditional quality with updated designs. These tables have sleeker profiles and may use mixed materials, such as metal accents combined with wood, to create a fresh look.
This style is perfect if you want a clean, contemporary table that still honors Stickley’s commitment to durable, handcrafted furniture. Options include extendable tops and varied finishes, letting you adapt a piece to your space and lifestyle.
Traditional Designs
Traditional Stickley tables draw inspiration from early American craftsmanship. They often feature rich wood tones like cherry or walnut and subtle decorative details that add elegance without distracting.
These tables are designed with heirloom quality, built to be passed down through generations. They work well in classic or formal rooms and come in various sizes and shapes, such as round, rectangular, or pedestal styles.
Custom finishes and matching furniture pieces allow you to create a cohesive look throughout your home.
Manufacturing and Craftsmanship
Stickley furniture tables are built with care that lasts for generations. Every detail is planned to ensure strength and beauty. You can expect solid hardwood, expert joinery, and finishes that protect and highlight the wood’s natural character.
Joinery Techniques
Stickley uses traditional joinery that requires skill and precision. Mortise-and-tenon joints are common. These joints fit perfectly without nails or screws, giving tables stability and durability. Dovetails are another signature feature, especially in drawers or connecting table parts.
This technique locks pieces together firmly while showing craftsmanship. The joints are tight and precise, ensuring your table stays solid through years of use. Each joint is checked by hand. This avoids weak spots and ensures that every piece fits perfectly.
Finishing Processes
The finishing process on Stickley tables enhances the wood’s natural beauty and protects it. Makers use hand-applied stains and sealants, applied in multiple layers to bring out rich color and grain patterns.
Finishes are low in chemicals, preserving the wood’s texture and environmental quality. The surface is sanded between coats for smoothness and durability.
Final finishes are often matte or satin, highlighting the wood’s warmth without glossiness. This keeps your table looking natural and timeless.
Identifying Authentic Stickley Tables
When looking for genuine Stickley tables, specific details can clearly set authentic pieces apart. Identifying marks and labels, along with visible signs of craftsmanship, are the main clues to verify authenticity and value.
Signature Marks and Labels
Authentic Stickley tables will often have a maker’s mark stamped, branded, or printed somewhere on the piece. These marks may appear as:
- Burned-in brands on the wood
- Paper labels attached inside drawers or underneath
- Etched or stamped metal tags
Older tables might display marks like L & JG Stickley, while later ones simply show Stickley. These marks help date the piece and confirm its origin.
Because the Stickley family used multiple marks over the years, comparing your table’s label to known examples can guide you. Always check for consistency in the label’s design, placement, and wording.
Quality Indicators
Stickley tables are known for solid hardwood construction—usually oak—and visible joinery like mortise-and-tenon, which ensures strength without nails or screws.
Look for these signs of craftsmanship:
- Even smooth finishes that highlight the wood grain
- Hand-cut dovetail joints in drawers or crisis points
- Heavyweight and sturdy feel because of dense hardwood
Furniture with rough or uneven surfaces, modern fasteners, or lightweight materials is likely a reproduction. Pay close attention to the table’s design lines, which follow the clean, simple shapes of the Arts & Crafts style. Balanced proportions and careful detailing underline genuine Stickley quality.
Care and Maintenance for Stickley Tables
Taking proper care of your Stickley table protects its beauty and ensures it lasts for generations. Regular cleaning, preventive steps, and careful repair work can preserve the solid hardwood and fine finish typical of Stickley craftsmanship.
Cleaning Recommendations
Use a soft, dry cloth to dust your Stickley table regularly. Avoid harsh chemicals or all-purpose cleaners, which can damage the finish.
For light cleaning, a slightly damp cloth is safe, but be sure to dry the surface immediately to prevent moisture damage. Stickley Furniture Dressing or paste wax works well for maintaining the finish.
Dressing is easier to apply and enhances shine without buildup. Apply these products sparingly and polish gently with a soft cloth to maintain the wood’s luster and protect the surface.
Never use abrasive materials or scrub vigorously. Sticky or oily substances should be wiped up quickly with mild soap and water to avoid stains or finish wear.
Preventative Measures
Protect your table from direct sunlight and extreme temperature changes, which can cause fading, cracking, or warping. Use placemats, coasters, and tablecloths to shield the wood from spills, heat, and scratches.
Avoid placing hot dishes directly on the wood. Use trivets or heat pads to prevent heat marks.
Also, keep your table away from radiators or air vents to control humidity levels and minimize wood expansion or contraction. Maintain a stable humidity in your home, ideally between 40% and 55%, to prevent the wood from drying out or swelling.
Repair and Restoration Guidance
If the finish on your Stickley table wears or is damaged, professional refinishing is recommended to preserve its value. Avoid DIY sanding or staining unless you have experience; improper refinishing can lower the piece’s worth.
Minor scratches or dull spots can be improved with Stickley Furniture Dressing or a paste wax. For deeper damage, consult a certified furniture restorer who understands Stickley’s finishes and craftsmanship.
When considering restoration, focus on cleaning and protecting original surfaces rather than replacing them. Preserving the original finish maintains the authenticity and heirloom quality of your Stickley table.
Where to Buy Stickley Furniture Tables
You have several reliable options when looking to buy Stickley furniture tables. Whether you prefer new pieces backed by expert service or rare antiques with historic value, you can find what fits your needs through authorized dealers, antique sellers, and online marketplaces.
Authorized Retailers
Buying from an authorized retailer guarantees you original Stickley craftsmanship. These dealers often provide design consultations and customization options to help you select the right table for your home.
Most Stickley furniture is made in the USA, so authorized stores can offer insight into the brand’s heritage and quality. Look for stores that specialize in Mission style and Stickley furniture. They carry a curated selection and provide expert customer service to guide your purchase.
Visiting a showroom allows you to see solid hardwood construction and the fine details that define Stickley tables. Authorized dealers also handle warranties and ensure you receive genuine products.
Antique Dealers
For a table with classic history and authentic patina, antique dealers are a valuable resource. Genuine vintage Stickley tables often carry designs from Gustav Stickley or L. & J.G. Stickley Inc., reflecting the original Arts & Crafts movement.
When purchasing antiques, focus on condition, provenance, and originality. Some dealers specialize in authentic Stickley pieces, verifying craftsmanship and wood quality.
Buying from reputable antique dealers can connect you with one-of-a-kind tables that add historic character and enduring value to your collection. Prices vary depending on age, rarity, and condition.
Be prepared to inspect pieces carefully or request expert appraisals to ensure authenticity.
Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces like eBay and 1stDibs provide a broad range of Stickley furniture tables, from new models to antiques. These platforms offer convenience and access to a wide selection beyond local stores.
When shopping online, check seller reviews and item details for authenticity. Many listings include clear photos and descriptions, but it is your responsibility to verify the table’s origin and condition.
Some sellers offer free shipping, making large furniture purchases more accessible. Using these sites can help you find a specific Stickley table or a rare vintage piece, but always approach with careful research to protect your investment.
Investment Value and Resale Insights
When you invest in Stickley furniture tables, you are choosing pieces that combine solid hardwood construction with timeless design. These tables reflect the Arts & Crafts movement and are built with lasting quality, which helps maintain their value over time.
The resale value depends on several key factors:
- Condition: Well-maintained tables with minimal wear sell for higher prices.
- Rarity: Limited edition or less common models can command premium prices.
- Provenance: Original Stickley labels or documentation boosts authenticity and worth.
Most used Stickley tables retain strong market value because collectors and homeowners appreciate the craftsmanship and heritage. You will find price guides and auction results useful for a quick estimate of current market trends.
Here is a simple price range overview:
|
Condition |
Typical Price Range |
|
Excellent, Mint |
$1,500 to $4,000+ |
|
Good, Minor Wear |
$800 to $1,500 |
|
Fair, Visible Damage |
Below $800 |
Caring for your table properly will protect its value. Avoid harsh cleaners and keep it away from direct sunlight or fluctuating humidity.
Experience the Timeless Beauty of Stickley Tables
Every Stickley table tells a story of craftsmanship rooted in American tradition. From the precise joinery to the hand-applied finishes, these tables embody the artistry and integrity that define true heirloom furniture.
At The Mission Motif, we celebrate Stickley’s enduring legacy of quality and design. Each piece represents more than furniture — it’s a connection to a century of skilled craftsmanship, built to serve and inspire every generation that gathers around it.
Visit our online store and explore authentic Stickley tables. Experience firsthand the beauty, function, and craftsmanship that make them timeless.
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding authentic Stickley tables, their price ranges, and care needs helps you make informed choices. You can also discover options that include storage and where to find specific styles like Mission dining tables and chairs.
How can I identify an authentic Stickley dining table?
Look for labels or stamps that say “Stickley” or “L & JG Stickley.” Older tables may carry more detailed maker’s marks. Check for solid hardwood construction and craftsmanship details like mortise-and-tenon joints. Authentic Stickley furniture has a sturdy, handcrafted feel and distinct Arts & Crafts design features.
What are the price ranges for Stickley tables?
Prices vary widely based on age, size, and style. Newer Stickley dining tables typically start around $3,000 and can exceed $10,000 for custom or large pieces. Vintage or rare models may have higher values depending on condition and provenance.
Does the value of Stickley furniture appreciate over time?
Stickley furniture tends to hold its value well and can appreciate if properly maintained. Vintage and well-preserved tables often become more desirable to collectors and homeowners seeking authentic American-made craftsmanship.
What options are available for Stickley tables with storage?
Some Stickley tables include built-in storage such as drawers or shelves, especially in occasional tables or desks. These options blend function with design, providing practicality without compromising the clean lines and solid wood quality Stickley is known for.
Where can I find Stickley Mission-style dining tables and chairs for sale?
You can find authentic Stickley Mission-style tables and chairs through authorized dealers like The Mission Motif showroom in Atlanta. These sources offer both new and select vintage pieces, alongside expert advice and customization options.
How do I care for a vintage Stickley table to maintain its condition?
Use a damp cloth for regular dusting. Apply Stickley-approved care products 2-3 times per year. Avoid mixing polishes or using harsh chemicals, which can damage finishes.