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High-quality pieces have a frame of kiln-dried wood that is free of knots. Maple is the wood most commonly used in the United States, while beechwood is popular in Europe. Joints that are double-doweled with screwed corner blocks contribute to a stable frame. Legs should be an integral part of the frame rather than added on later. Center support legs on larger pieces provide better weight distribution. Inner spring construction should be considered when buying a piece of furniture. Eight-way, hand-tied coils provide an even foundation, and result in no single spring bearing a disproportionate amount of weight. Although not as desirable, other systems such as drop-in pre-assembled coil units and sinuous wire fastened from front to back help provide a soft seat.
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