Love these stools! Very attractive and sturdy. Assembly was a breeze. The only disappointment was the dowels on one of the stools extended only 1/8" or less instead of 1/2" or longer. I went ahead and assembled it anyway, hoping that the screws will be sufficient without full dowel support. I didn't want the hassle of returning and exchanging, so I didn't contact Birch Lane. So far, so good. Really happy with their look. They're comfortable, too!