Tips for Choosing the Perfect Wood for Your Project

Wood is so diverse that it provides a high level of flexibility when working on all types of projects; however, there are times when you may have envisioned a certain outcome from a wood project, and then you were disappointed by the end result. It is possible that you did not give adequate attention to the type of wood you chose for your project.

While you want a wood grain that will lend to the aesthetic appeal of the project, you will also need to pay attention to durability and the resistance of the wood to scarring and staining.

It is also important to make sure that when you are working with multiple pieces of wood that all of the piece’s match nicely when connected. You want to ensure that there is consistency throughout.

Book-matching is a very effective technique to create a favorable grain pattern. Book-matching is accomplished by cutting the board in half through its thickness, and folding the board open.

It is also important to consider the final thickness you are looking for in your project. When using multiple pieces, you will need to make sure that the thickness of each piece will equal a sum total of the desired thickness. You will also need to add at least 1/16 of an inch for sanding and smoothing toward the end of the project. The blade thickness of any cutting devices will also have to be considered when attempting to reach a specific thickness.

While figured wood is usually good for the aesthetic appeal of a finished product, you should be aware of the fact that too much of a good thing can have a reverse impact on the desired results. With this in mind, it is best to use figured wood to provide the accents and highlights that bring out the finished piece. Now, personal taste also plays a role in what you are looking for, so you will need to find your personal tolerance for accenting and highlighting your project. Another way to accent your wood project is by finding wood that has worm holes, knots and other forms of natural disfigurations. Natural disfigurations can make some of the most beautiful statements in wood projects.

Basically, ending up with a beautiful product is the result of teaching yourself to see the colors and grains of the wood. Allow what you see to guide how you arrange the pieces to create the best combination. Finally, don’t lose sight of the back of the wood, especially if both sides will be visible. Just because the front has turned out perfect, does not mean that the back has as well. You will need to give an equal amount of attention to both sides.

Wholesale cutting boards used high quality wood in all of our boards.