Q1: Is this chest made of solid wood?

A: No. The core of the chest is made of particle board with an outside wood veneer. Particle board is very popular and used in many lower to moderate priced wood products. It is made by mixing sawdust with adhesives and pressed into solid sheets. Particle board is an inexpensive alternative to MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) and solid wood. One thing to be aware of is that particle board can swell if furniture becomes wet so great care must be taken not to leave furniture under an open window or on a wet carpet.

Q2: What is a veneer?

A: Veneer is a thin layer of wood. Veneered construction refers to furniture that is made in whole or in part by using veneer bonded to an inner core. In the case of this cedar chest, both the outer oak veneer and the inner cedar veneer are bonded to the particle board. Veneer construction is used in 80% of furniture manufactured from budget to high price points.

Q3: Is the chest lined in cedar?

A: Yes.

Q4: How much assembly is required?

A: The entire piece has to be assembled upon delivery. Included in the hardware kit are dowels, hinges, short and long screws, cam bolts and locks, covers and the magnet lock.

Q5: Is this item easy to assemble?

A: The assembly instructions are easy to read and includes detailed drawings. It is recommended to have a helper for holding the larger pieces in place. Normal household tools are all that is needed to assemble. Approximate time to assemble will vary with experience.