How to Safely Verify an Artisan Furniture Seller on CustomMade (2026 Guide)

Verifying Artisan Furniture Sellers on CustomMade

CustomMade is a platform connecting buyers with talented artisans. When purchasing unique artisan furniture pieces, it's crucial to verify the seller's legitimacy to avoid potential fraud and ensure you receive a high-quality product.

Common Scams to Watch For

• ✓ Stolen Artisan Portfolio: Scammers may pose as legitimate artisans by using another's work as their own. Always look for consistency in style and ask for work-in-progress photos.
• ✓ Material Grade Downselling: Sellers might claim to use premium materials but deliver furniture made with lower-grade alternatives. Request detailed specifications and certifications if applicable.
• ✓ Indefinite Production Delay: Some fraudulent sellers may accept orders and then string buyers along with perpetual delays, often leading to no delivery. Check seller reviews for past issues with timelines.
• ✓ Fake CAD Rendering Bait: Artisans may present highly polished computer-generated designs that are impossible to replicate in reality. Ask for real-world examples of their finished work.
• ✓ Off-Platform Deposit Request: Be wary of sellers who ask for deposits or payments outside of the CustomMade platform, as this bypasses buyer protection. All transactions should be secured through CustomMade.
• ✓ Non-Functional Furniture Design: A scammer might present aesthetically pleasing designs that are structurally unsound or impractical for actual use. Inquire about the craftsmanship and structural integrity.

Steps to Verify a Seller

• ✓ Review Seller Profile and Reviews: Thoroughly examine the seller's profile, paying close attention to customer reviews, ratings, and the duration they've been active on CustomMade.
• ✓ Examine Past Work and Portfolio: Look for a consistent style and quality in their previous projects. Be suspicious if their portfolio seems too diverse or lacks depth.
• ✓ Ask Detailed Questions: Inquire about their materials, construction methods, production timelines, and any customization options. A genuine artisan will readily provide this information.
• ✓ Request Work-in-Progress Photos/Videos: For custom pieces, ask for regular updates with photos or videos of the construction process to ensure the project is on track and meets your expectations.
• ✓ Verify Communication: Assess the seller's responsiveness and clarity in communication. Prompt and clear answers are good indicators of a professional seller.
• ✓ Secure Payments via CustomMade: Always conduct all transactions, including deposits and final payments, through the CustomMade platform to leverage their buyer protection policies.

For high-value artisan furniture pieces, typically exceeding $500, we strongly recommend utilizing Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for identity verification. This adds an extra layer of security by confirming the seller's identity, providing peace of mind for significant investments.

For lower-value items or for added assurance on any transaction, consider the Safe Trade Services Basic Plan. This service helps verify the seller's credentials, further mitigating risks associated with online purchases.

By following these guidelines and utilizing verification services, you can confidently purchase unique artisan furniture pieces from CustomMade, ensuring a secure and satisfying experience.