Stainless steel generally refers to an alloy of iron and chromium. Although stainless steel must contain at least 10.5% chromium, the exact composition and proportions will vary depending on the grade required and the intended use of the steel. The exact composition of the alloy is rigorously measured and evaluated throughout the alloying process to ensure the steel is of the required quality. Later, the exact process for stainless steel grades will vary.

How a certain steel grade is formed, machined and finished plays an important role in determining its appearance and performance. Before a deliverable steel product can be created, a molten alloy must first be created. Therefore, most steel grades have common starting steps. The manufacture of stainless steel begins with melting scrap metal and additives in an electric arc furnace (EAF). EAF uses high-powered electrodes to heat metal over several hours, creating a molten fluid mixture.

Since stainless steel furniture is 100% recyclable, many stainless steel orders contain up to 60% recycled steel. This not only helps control costs but also helps reduce environmental impact. Carbon helps make iron harder and stronger. However, too much carbon can create problems, such as carbide precipitation during welding. Before casting molten stainless steel, it must be calibrated and the carbon content reduced to the appropriate level. Foundries have two methods of controlling carbon content. The first is through argon oxygen deodorization (AOD). Injecting an argon mixture into the molten steel reduces the carbon content while minimizing the loss of other essential elements.

Another method used is vacuum oxygen decarburization (VOD). In this method, the molten steel is transferred to another chamber, where oxygen is injected into the steel while being heated. A vacuum then removes the vented gases from the chamber, further reducing the carbon content.