Craftsmanship Born from Passion
What started as a small garage workshop has grown into southeastern Nebraska's most trusted custom woodworking shop. Here's our story.
From Humble Beginnings to Local Institution
Sofa Trade Co began in 2009 when our founder, who had spent a decade apprenticing under master woodworkers in the Midwest, decided to bring his vision of quality craftsmanship to Nebraska City.
Starting with just a handful of basic power tools and a modest inventory of lumber, we took on small repair jobs and simple furniture pieces. Word spread quickly—our attention to detail and refusal to cut corners on quality made us stand out.
By 2015, we'd outgrown our original space twice and established ourselves as the go-to shop for custom furniture and cabinetry throughout the region. Today, our 2,400-square-foot workshop employs 12 skilled craftsmen and completes over 80 projects annually.
Building Legacies, One Piece at a Time
We believe furniture should be more than functional—it should be meaningful.
Quality Without Compromise
Every project that leaves our workshop meets our exacting standards. We use traditional joinery techniques—mortise and tenon, dovetails, bridles—that have proven durable for centuries. Modern machine work aids precision, but the soul of each piece comes from hand-finishing and careful attention.
Sustainable Practices
We source lumber from regional mills practicing sustainable forestry. Our workshop recoups 95% of wood waste as either kindling for local families or mulch for community gardens. We finish our pieces with low-VOC products that are safe for your home and better for the environment.
Community Connection
As a Nebraska City business, we're invested in our community. We sponsor local woodworking programs at the Area High School and partner with Habitat for Humanity on home builds. When you work with us, you're supporting local families and vocational education.
Lifetime Support
We stand behind our work. Every piece we build comes with our commitment to repair, refinish, or adjust as needed over its lifetime. We've maintained furniture we built 14 years ago—because we believe in relationships, not just transactions.
Meet Our Craftsmen
The skilled hands and passionate hearts behind every piece we create.
Michael R.
Founder & Master Craftsman
25 years of woodworking experience. Specializes in design and traditional joinery.
David L.
Senior Woodworker
18 years in the trade. Cabinetry specialist with a perfectionist's eye for detail.
Sarah K.
Finishing Expert
12 years of experience. Her hand-rubbed finishes are legendary among clients.
James P.
Design Consultant
Interior design background. Translates client visions into functional beauty.
What Our Workshop Can Do
Full-Service Workshop
From rough lumber to finished piece, everything happens in-house. No outsourcing, no quality surprises.
Modern & Traditional
CNC precision for consistent joinery combined with hand-tool work for unique character.
Material Library
We maintain samples of 40+ wood species and can source specialty lumber on request.
Delivery & Installation
We don't just build and leave. Our team delivers, assembles, and ensures perfect placement.
Want to See Our Work in Person?
Schedule a visit to our workshop to browse samples, discuss your project, and see craftsmanship up close.
Schedule a Visit