Wood is a natural product with many different characteristics that can be used by the carpenter. Colour and grain are obvious, but stability, durability, texture, strength and hardness are equally important. Should the wood be freshly sawn or should it be dried to a very low moisture content to function in a modern home? I consider all of these things when choosing the wood for the design and for the product being made. I generally make monthly trips to my preferred timber yard to personally select the timber I will be using for you.
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I use wood that is sourced sustainably - that means my wood will carry the two trademarks associated with sustainable timber – FSC and PEFC. I sometimes use reclaimed wood. I would never use a timber product that is listed on the CITES list of Endangered Products.
The woods that I most commonly use are:
• Oak, Elm, Ash, Beech, and Cherry – All British/European Hardwoods
• American Black Walnut, American Cherry, and Maple – Imported Hardwoods
• Douglas Fir, Larch, Western Red Cedar – Interesting and beautiful Softwoods
• Sapele, Idigbo and Iroko – Tropical Hardwoods for some External Applications
• Tulipwood (Poplar) – Flat Softwood for painted furniture.
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Of course I do use other woods from time to time and I am happy to show samples and discuss their inclusion in your product.
Other Materials I use a lot of Birch Ply because of the decorative edge and its association with Scandinavian modernism. I also use veneered MDF and Valchromat.
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I like to combine materials in my designs - this could be complimentary wood species or the addition of metal, concrete or synthetic materials.
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These links lead to the websites of my preferred suppliers and may be of help when you come to think about how to finish your door or furniture.