Handmade Nesting Table Sets: A Buying Guide for Pakistani Homes
Carved sheesham or naqshi lacquer? How to choose a handmade nesting table set of four, place it and care for it, from Sillanwali Handicrafts.
A nesting table set is one of the most practical pieces of furniture in a Pakistani home. Most days it sits as one neat table. When guests arrive, the smaller tables slide out to hold tea cups, plates of mithai and dry fruit. When they leave, everything tucks back into one.
At Sillanwali Handicrafts we make nesting table sets of four in two main styles: carved sheesham wood and colourful naqshi lacquer. This guide helps you choose between them and look after your set.
Why nesting tables work so well
- They save space. Four tables take up the floor space of one.
- They're ready for guests. You can set out several small surfaces in seconds.
- They're flexible. Use the largest as a side table and move the smaller ones wherever they're needed, such as beside a chair, on a balcony or in a bedroom.
Style 1: Carved sheesham
Sheesham is a dense, durable hardwood with a warm grain. Carved sets show off the wood itself, with patterns cut by hand into the tops and sides.
- Carved Sheesham Nesting Table Set of 4: four hand-carved tables that stack into one.
- Carved & Inlaid Sheesham Nesting Table Set of 4: carved sheesham with white inlay for extra contrast.
- Lattice-Carved Sheesham Nesting Table Set of 4: open lattice-carved tops with a lighter, airy look.
Carved Sheesham Nesting Table Set of 4
Carved & Inlaid Sheesham Nesting Table Set of 4
Lattice-Carved Sheesham Nesting Table Set of 4
Choose carved sheesham if you like natural wood, your room has wooden furniture already, or you want a classic piece that suits most décor.
Curious about the wood? Read Is sheesham wood sustainable? and Sheesham vs mango vs acacia wood.
Sheesham vs mango vs acacia wood
Style 2: Naqshi lacquer
Naqshi tables have tops finished in coloured lac, with patterns scratched through by hand so the layers of colour show. Each one is bright, glossy and unmistakably handmade.
- Orange Naqshi Nesting Table Set of 4: hand-scratched orange lac tops.
- Teal Naqshi Nesting Table Set of 4: teal and gold scratchwork.
- Red & Silver Naqshi Nesting Table Set of 4: red lac tops with silver scratchwork.
Orange Naqshi Nesting Table Set of 4
Teal Naqshi Nesting Table Set of 4
Red & Silver Naqshi Nesting Table Set of 4
Choose naqshi lacquer if you want colour to be the focus, your walls and sofas are fairly plain, or you love traditional craft. To learn how it's made, see What is naqshi lacquer woodcraft?
What is naqshi lacquer woodcraft?
How to choose the right set
Look at your sofa and rug. A patterned rug often pairs better with carved wood. A plain room comes alive with a naqshi set.
Pick a colour that repeats. If your cushions or curtains have orange, teal or red in them, a matching naqshi set ties the room together.
Think about where it will live. Measure the spot where the set will sit nested, and make sure there's space to pull the smaller tables out.
Mix and match carefully. A naqshi set looks good with other lacquer pieces, like a lacquer table lamp. A carved set pairs well with a carved side table or a carved wall clock.
Caring for your nesting tables
- Use coasters or a tray under hot cups and glasses. Our serving tray set is a good companion.
- Wipe spills straight away with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth.
- Avoid harsh chemical cleaners on lacquer or carved surfaces.
- Keep the set away from long hours of direct sunlight and from heaters.
- Lift the smaller tables out rather than dragging them, to protect the finish.
See How to care for lacquered wood for more tips.
How to care for lacquered wood
Nesting tables as a gift
A nesting table set is a generous wedding, housewarming or jahez gift that the family will use every time guests visit. For more ideas, see our wedding and nikkah gift guide.
Order from Sillanwali Handicrafts
Every set is handmade in Pakistan. Prices are listed on each product page, with cash on delivery available. Explore the home decor collection, or visit our bulk orders page for trade and wholesale buying.