All About Wood...

For wood lovers like us, there is no such thing as too much information. It is a compulsion to learn, play and share the knowledge as our means to enjoy our woodworking craft.

For you newbies, I have added a few notes on each type of wood, as I get a chance to either use it or do some research. I do extend a big thanks to all of my customers that have shared their knowledge and experiences to create this wood and woodworking knowledge base.

A few notes:

The Tree Species: Tree researchers are finding out new things everyday about the genetic makeup and family lineage of woody species so don't be surprised if you find contradictions on the Internet... some of the best in the industry belong to the association listed above so if it is important to "get it right", talk to the experts.

Tree Usage: This is kind of a moving target these days. If you look at traditional usage of a particular species say even 10 years ago, I'd guarantee that it has changed... every day new exotic woods are arriving from far away places and supplanting traditional North American species... do your homework and make sure that what it is that you are thinking about using is infact appropriate to your application.

Weight: keep in mind that density can vary dramatically same species to same species, just based on geographical location and orientation within the forest... trees grow faster on the outskirts and slower in a dense forest, creating trees of different weights just based on where they are located. Numbers given are only mean as an approximation.

Machining: One man's (woman's) "easy" is another man's difficulty so use these suggestions only as a guideline.. Only buy a little of a particular species until you are sure that this is a wood you will enjoy playing with.

Toxicity? Always wear a mask and don't take chances.. Alot of woods that are of relatively limited distribution have never been analyzed for toxins, AND never will be unless they become mainstream. And even if they all were analyzed I still couldn't guarantee their safe usage. Everyone has different sensitivities so be your own judge.

Have fun in your shop and be safe!

Your may want to check out an organization I belong to:

The International Wood Collectors Association

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