Check out all the different types and varieties of this versatile material.
By Staff Writer
Understanding the different types and varieties of wood is essential for beginner crafters as it helps you choose the right wood for your projects based on factors like durability, appearance, and ease of working. Here are some common types and varieties of wood for beginner crafters:
1. Pine: Pine is a softwood that’s readily available and affordable. It’s easy to work with, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Pine has a light colour with distinct grain patterns, and it takes finishes, paints, and stains well. Common varieties include Eastern White Pine and Southern Yellow Pine.
2. Cedar: Cedar is a softwood known for its natural resistance to decay and insects. It has a pleasant aroma and reddish-brown colour. Cedar is often used for outdoor projects like garden boxes and fences.
3. Redwood: Redwood is another decay-resistant softwood, primarily used for outdoor applications. It has a beautiful reddish hue and an attractive grain pattern. Redwood is often used for decks, outdoor furniture, and siding.
4. Oak: Oak is a hardwood that’s both strong and durable. It has a distinctive grain pattern and is available in two main varieties: red oak and white oak. Oak is commonly used for furniture making and cabinetry due to its strength and appearance.
5. Maple: Maple is a hardwood known for its light colour and fine grain. It’s easy to work with and finishes beautifully. Hard maple (often called sugar maple) is preferred for woodworking due to its hardness and strength.
6. Cherry: Cherry is a hardwood that darkens and develops a rich reddish-brown colour as it ages. It has a fine grain and is highly regarded for furniture making, cabinetry, and decorative projects.
7. Walnut: Walnut is a dark hardwood with a rich, chocolate-brown colour. It’s prized for its appearance and is often used in fine furniture and decorative items. Walnut can be more expensive than other woods.
8. Birch: Birch is a hardwood that comes in various colours, including white, yellow, and red. It has a straight grain and is often used for plywood, as well as furniture and cabinetry when finished with a clear coat.
9. Poplar: Poplar is a relatively soft hardwood with a pale colour and greenish undertones. It’s easy to work with and takes paint well. Poplar is often used for painted projects and is an economical choice.
10. MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard): MDF is not a wood species, but a composite material made from wood fibres, wax, and resin. It’s dense, smooth, and consistent, making it an excellent choice for projects that require a smooth finish, such as cabinetry and shelving.
11. Plywood: Plywood is also not a wood species, but a product made by layering thin sheets of wood (veneers) and adhesive. It comes in various grades and can be a versatile choice for a wide range of projects, including furniture, cabinets, and structural applications.
When selecting wood for your projects, consider factors like the intended use, your budget, and your skill level. Softwoods like pine and cedar are often preferred for beginner crafters due to their ease of workability, while hardwoods like oak, cherry, and walnut offer beauty, and durability for more advanced projects. Additionally, consider the finish you plan to apply and how the wood species will respond to it, as this can affect the final appearance of your project.
