Vehicle prices are higher than ever, with new models creeping up by 2.6% last year, and a typical SUV now costing north of $74,000. And yet this has also left us in a situation where automotive interiors are an identikit affair, with banks of screens and acres of vegan leather making it hard to stand out.
That’s where getting crafty makes a difference, as with wooden accessories you can spruce up the cabin of a brand new set of wheels, or breathe life back into a secondhand model.
Here’s a look at the benefits of doing this.
The Practical Benefits Unpacked
Handcrafted wooden accessories certainly look good, but aesthetics aren’t the be-all and end-all here. They bring real, practical benefits to your car's interior - it just depends on how you deploy them.
Here are a few examples:
- Enhanced Grip and Comfort: A wooden steering wheel - or even just a wooden cover - feels solid yet smooth, offering a more pleasing grip compared to plastic or leather equivalents. This improves the driving experience and even makes it less fatiguing, especially during long drives.
- Temperature Regulation: Wood doesn’t get as hot in the summer or as cold in the winter as metal or plastic. This makes it more comfortable year-round - so for any gearheads who live in balmy parts of the country, it’s a legit upgrade.
-
Natural Insulation: Wood has natural insulating properties that can dampen vibrations and reduce noise inside the cabin. So if you’re sick of road rumble, accessorizing with wood works wonders.
- Durability: Quality wood is resilient against wear and tear. Unlike synthetic materials, which might crack over time, well-maintained wood ages gracefully. This also makes it great for smaller-scale DIY projects, like making your own wooden toy car.
Obviously you’ll want to make sure that the effort you put into picking wooden accessories for your automobile is not wasted on a subpar model.
As such, buying from a reputable, local used car supplier is a savvy step. For instance, if you’re in the Denver area then it’s work making the trip to Colorado Springs car dealerships for exceptional service and quality vehicles word customizing.
The Influence of Wood Over Automotive Interiors
Put simply, handcrafted wooden accessories elevate your car’s interior from mundane to magnificent. And while just 32% of people are concerned about design when making a vehicle buying decision, that just makes it even more special for those who do give a darn.
Here’s how this material can redefine the look and feel of your vehicle:
- Wood adds a touch of luxury with its rich, warm tones that plastic simply can't match. This instantly upgrades the cabin ambiance.
- Each piece of wood has unique grain patterns, making every accessory one-of-a-kind. This creates an exclusive feel tailored just for you.
- Modern craftsmanship allows wooden accessories to blend seamlessly with existing materials like leather and metal, creating a cohesive design.
When considering enhancements, think about these impactful changes:
- Dashboard Accents: Replace bland panels with striking wooden finishes.
- Door Trim: Add elegance to otherwise unnoticed areas.
- Gear Shift Knobs: Bring style within touching distance.
Real-world examples show how even subtle touches can transform interiors:
- Vintage cars often use polished mahogany for classic appeal.
- Sports cars incorporate carbonized bamboo for a modern twist on tradition.
Integrate handcrafted wooden pieces to not only enhance aesthetics but also make driving more pleasurable visually and tangibly.
Caring for Handcrafted Wooden Accessories
Handcrafted wooden accessories can last a lifetime with the right care - and in fact this material is widely used elsewhere as a result of its longevity, with ancient shrines over 1,000 years old taking advantage of it, for example. Here’s how to keep your in-car wood looking fresh and pristine:
- Regular Dusting: Use a soft cloth to remove dust. This prevents grime buildup which can dull the wood’s finish over time.
- Moisture Control: Wood can be sensitive to moisture. Wipe spills immediately, and avoid using water-based cleaners that might seep into the grain. If possible, store your vehicle under cover or in a garage, as this will also limit its exposure to atmospheric moisture, which is good for wooden accessories as well as for preventing rust on the bodywork.
- Proper Cleaning Products: Use specialized wood cleaners or mild soap diluted in water. Avoid harsh chemicals which can strip away protective finishes.
Also, consider these practical tips for longevity:
- Polishing: Regularly apply furniture polish or beeswax to maintain shine and protect against drying out.
- UV Protection: Shield wooden parts from direct sunlight using window shades when parked, as prolonged exposure can cause fading or warping.
- Temperature Fluctuations: Try to keep your car's interior at a stable temperature; extreme changes may cause cracking.
Thinking ahead, here are a few preventive measures to combat wood-related wear:
- Applying Varnish: A clear varnish coating adds an extra layer of protection against scratches and environmental damage.
- Conditioning Oil: Occasionally treat your wooden accessories with conditioning oil to preserve their natural luster and prevent them from becoming brittle.
Final Thoughts
While wooden interior accessories might not fit in with every driver’s style, those that get the appeal will really be wowed by the transformative impact this material can have. The blend of good looks and practicality is seriously impressive, so next time you’re looking for an automotive upgrade, don’t turn your nose up at wooden options.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Olivia Poglianich
Content Strategist
Olivia Poglianich is a nomadic brand strategist and copywriter in the wooden crafts and 3D product design space who has worked with brands such as Visa, Disney and Grey Goose. Her writing has taken her all over the world, from a Serbian music festival to a Malaysian art and culture event. Olivia is a graduate of Cornell University and is often writing or reading about travel, hospitality, the start-up ecosystem or career coaching. Her latest interests are at the intersection of web3 and communal living, both on and offline.
