The difference between our two product lines boils down to two things: quality and price. Discount Montessori Materials are manufactured in China using primarily basswood, which is similar in hardness to white pine. DMM products use certified lead-free paints and finishes, and joints are typically secured with nails, staples and/or glue. The DMM product line represents excellent value at its price point and is our most popular in terms of volume of sales.

Gonzagarredi materials are manufactured in Italy using primarily beechwood, which is similar in hardness to red oak. Gonzagarredi products use top-quality paints, finishes and crafted joinery, are AMI-approved and are considered by many to be the finest Montessori materials available in the world. Think of comparing a Honda to a Ferrari: both are fine automobiles and will certainly get you to the grocery store and back. Whether or not it’s worth it to pay for higher quality and performance is entirely up to you. Whichever you choose, we guarantee that you will be satisfied with your purchase.