Hi, I'm curious why you want to stay away from veneered furniture. Excellent quality furniture all through the ages has had veneers. So has junk, you just have to know what you're buying. A veneer over another wood is often done for a structural reason. Veneer over particle board is done to reduce cost. Is there something in particular that drives you to solid wood?

Try a consignment shop. There are lots of high quality wood beds out there that are a lot cheaper than buying a new one.

I’m in the same boat. I’m okay with some veneer over wood but not veneer over MDF or plywood. I have found some great pieces from Hooker, Fine Furniture Design, Artiste, and American Drew.

My mom's set, which I paid $8,000 for, looks like they put paper over the wood. You can't polish it without leaving grease blotches. Nothing can be placed on the surfaces because it scratches so easily. I thought it was really good furniture when I bought it, but it's really not even functional.

Look up amish furniture online and you will find solid wood furniture. Or look up amish furniture in your area to find local dealers.

Someone mentioned consignment stores.A great idea. I'll add estate sales. Fantastic furniture at both from people who bought expensive solid wood furniture that their children don't want. estatesales.net is a good way to find sales in your area. Lots of junk out there too but the price will be right on the good stuff.

I actually got a lowboy Drexel dresser from craigslist for $50. A friend of mine refinishes furniture for work and refinished it for $500. now I have a beautiful, classic navy dresser that looks fabulous with the rest of my bedroom, and is unique and high quality. local artisan markets are great to check out for this type of thing.

That sounds like a great idea! Thanks!