What each one is
CNC carving is done by a machine following a design file, so every piece comes out identical. Hand carving is drawn and cut by a craftsman with his tools, and many workshops start with a machine rough-out that the craftsman then finishes by hand for depth and detail.
How to tell the difference
- Depth: hand carving is deeper, with layers and shadows; machine carving is shallower and flatter.
- Edges: hand-carved edges are crisp and varied; machine edges are rounded to the radius of the cutting bit.
- Repetition: hand carving shows small differences between mirrored motifs; machine carving matches exactly.
- Undercuts: hand carving reaches behind leaves and flowers; a machine usually cannot.
When each one suits you
Machine carving suits large quantities, simpler designs, and projects where budget and time come first. Hand carving earns its price on the main pieces seen up close: the salon, the bed headboard, the console and the mirrors. On large projects many clients combine both.
What to ask the factory
Ask plainly: is the carving fully by hand, or machine-cut with hand finishing? Ask for photos of the piece during production, or visit the factory if you can. A clear answer to that question is part of the trust between you and the maker.
