With over 24 years of experience as a bed-maker, he has accumulated extensive knowledge from previous generations bed builders.
Jan-Erik Leander – Master Craftsman Hästens
”My mission is to ensure that our future generation bed-makers are more skilled than I.”
Jan-Erik Leander is Hästens’ master craftsman. With over 24 years of experience as a bed-maker, he has accumulated extensive knowledge from previous generations bed builders. Now Jan-Erik is passing on these unique skills to the following generation.
How are Hästens future bed makers being trained?
The craftsmanship here at Hästens is unique, as it simply can’t be learned in any school. Instead, we’ve got an internal apprenticeship program where the new employee works side by side with an experienced craftsman who will mentor and guide as well. My goal is that the apprentices I train will some day become better than me.
What’s the difference between a handmade bed and a bed built by machine?
We use our senses when making the bed. We can ensure that the quality of fabrics, tailoring, fitting, wooden frames and springs are perfect.
We know how the materials should feel like and can then distribute them evenly over the beds surface. When working with natural materials, craftsmanship is incredibly important. The materials must be processed and it is by touch and experience we determine when the bed is perfect.
In what bed do you sleep yourself?
I’m privileged as I sleep in the first Vividus prototype we ever built. Before that I had a 2000T and slept well in it for over 16 years.
When do you feel really content?
I rejoice when I reflect on how the beds we make will improve people’s quality of life. And I feel extra pleased when the Vividus we’ve just finished is set up for final inspection and everything is perfect. Then I know that we’ve done a great job.
Do you have any tips for those who want to inspect the craftsmanship?
Yes, pay attention to the details. A Hästens bed is made to be thoroughly inspected by the seams. But most important is the feeling you get when you lay down in a Hästens bed. All the hours of craftsmanship put into its production has one ultimate purpose - to create the most comfortable bed. So lay down, close your eyes and relax. The special feeling will come to you.