Wood and lumber are essential materials for any woodworking project. Learning about the different types of wood, their unique properties, and how to choose the right wood for your needs is key to success. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about woodworking wood.
What is Wood for Woodworking?
Wood for woodworking refers to lumber and boards used for woodworking projects and crafts. It encompasses both hardwoods and softwoods. Woodworking wood is available in a wide variety of species, cuts, grades, and sizes to suit any project.
Why is Wood and Lumber Important?
Choosing the right wood impacts the strength, appearance, workability, and cost of a project. Considerations like hardness, grain patterns, color, and natural resistance to decay help determine the suitability of a given wood species for an application. Taking the time to understand wood properties ensures the best outcome.
Types of Wood and Lumber for Woodworking
The two main categories of wood for woodworking are hardwoods and softwoods. They differ anatomically and originate from different types of trees.
Hardwood comes from deciduous broadleaf trees which lose their leaves annually. Oak, maple, walnut, and cherry are common hardwoods.
Softwood comes from coniferous evergreen trees which keep their leaves year-round. Pine, cedar, spruce, and fir are common softwoods.
Plywood consists of thin sheets of wood glued together in alternating grain directions. It is more stable than solid wood.
Properties of Wood and Lumber
Key properties that differentiate wood species and impact their suitability for projects include:
- Grain – The pattern of fibers visible on the wood surface. Grain types include straight, wavy, interlocked, and figured.
- Density – Mass per unit of volume. Denser woods tend to be stronger and harder.
- Hardness – Resistance to indentation and abrasion. Harder woods hold shapes and resist wear better.
- Color – Natural color ranges from nearly white to reddish brown to almost black.
- Workability – How easy the wood is to cut, shape, and sand. Softer woods tend to be more workable.
How to Choose Wood and Lumber
Choosing the optimal woodworking wood involves considering four key factors:
Consider the Type of Project
- Furniture – Hardwoods like oak, maple, and walnut have the strength and hardness for furniture that will endure.
- Home Décor – Softer, lightweight woods like pine and cedar are a good match for decorative projects.
- Outdoor Use – Woods with natural weather and decay resistance like cedar and redwood.
Consider the Budget
- Hardwoods – More expensive, but durable over the long term. Worth the investment for heirloom projects.
- Softwoods – Less expensive while still versatile and workable. Ideal for practice and prototypes.
- Plywood – Affordable and stable. Good for concealed parts and beginner projects.
Consider the Desired Appearance
- Grain Patterns – Curly maple and quartersawn oak have distinctive, eye-catching grain.
- Color Variation – Cherry and walnut darken beautifully over time. Pine has a light, warm look.
- Texture – Ash and poplar have a smooth, even texture well-suited for painted projects.
Consider the Workability
- Softwoods – Tend to be lightweight and easy to cut and shape with hand or power tools.
- Hardwoods – Require more skill and sharper tooling to cut cleanly and smoothly.
- Density – Very dense exotic woods may require carbide tooling.
Hardwoods
Hardwoods make up the majority of woodworking woods. Their strength, attractive grain patterns, and natural beauty make them ideal for fine furniture, cabinetry, and turnings.
Oak
Known for:
- Strength and hardness
- Distinct grain patterns
- Durability
- Stain-friendly
Best for:
- Furniture
- Flooring
- Cabinetry
- Artistic woodworking
Maple
Known for:
- Very hard and dense
- Light color
- Fine, consistent grain
- Takes stains and finishes well
Best for:
Walnut
Known for:
- Rich, dark brown color
- Straight, tight grain
- Easy to work
- Ages beautifully over time
Best for:
- Furniture
- Gun stocks
- Cabinetry
- Decorative accents
Cherry
Known for:
- Mid-range hardness
- Distinct reddish tones
- Closed grain
- Polishes to a smooth surface
Best for:
- Fine furniture
- Cabinetry
- Artistic woodworking
- Musical instruments
Softwoods
Softwoods are generally less expensive, less dense, and easier to work than hardwoods. They have a wide range of uses in construction and woodworking.
Pine
Known for:
- Versatile and abundant
- Lightweight
- Easy to work
- Distinct knotty character
Best for:
- Construction lumber
- Shelving
- Furniture
- Decorative projects
Spruce
Known for:
- Lightweight and soft
- Very straight, even grain
- Resonant tone
- Takes stains and paint well
Best for:
- Guitars and other musical instruments
- Model aircraft
- Sounding boards
- Interior trim
Cedar
Known for:
- Aromatic scent
- Natural decay resistance
- Lightweight
- Interesting grain patterns
Best for:
- Outdoor furniture
- Planter boxes
- Shingles and siding
- Closet lining
Douglas Fir
Known for:
- Very strong and hard for a softwood
- Durability
- Distinctive look
- Versatility
Best for:
- Timber framing
- Exposed beams and trusses
- Flooring
- Doors and windows
Plywood
Plywood offers strength and stability in a versatile and affordable sheet material. It can be used on its own or as a substrate for veneering.
Properties:
- Composed of thin wood veneers glued together
- Alternating grain direction increases strength
- Versatile range of thicknesses and grades
- More stable than solid wood
- Cost-effective and efficient use of materials
Uses:
- Subfloors and roof decking
- Shop jigs and fixtures
- Shelving and storage
- Cabinet carcasses
- Signs and displays
How to Choose Woodworking Wood for Your Project
When starting a new woodworking project, follow this simple process to select the optimal wood:
- Determine the primary use – Structural? Decorative? Outdoor?
- Consider cost limitations – Expense level you can afford.
- Decide on desired aesthetics – Color, grain, figure, texture.
- Understand workability needs – Ease of cutting, shaping, finishing.
- Research options – Talk to experts. Review wood properties.
- Purchase quality boards – Reputable dealer. Avoid defects and warping.
Choosing the right woodworking wood ensures success and enjoyment in your next woodworking project. Follow these guidelines to match the perfect species to your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Woodworking wood provides immense creativity and satisfaction for woodworkers. The natural beauty, unique character, and versatility of wood make each project meaningful.
By learning about wood properties and characteristics, you can confidently choose woodworking wood to suit your budget, tools, skill level, and project goals. Understanding the differences between species allows you to highlight the visual impact of wood grain patterns, color variation, and textures.
With this comprehensive overview, you now have the knowledge to select the ideal woodworking wood for creating your next masterpiece. Refer back regularly to find the perfect wood to bring your ideas to life.