UNDERSTANDING TYPES OF WOOD
Here is a little information to help you in your choice of wood for your next project:
There are many different grades of lumber – the higher the number the lower the grade – the larger number and size of imperfections. We use either Select – which has very small, or no knots or imperfections or #1 – which has some knots of a usable size and adds character, Whereby giving you the customer the best looking project.
The most popular hardwoods are Oak, Maple, Ash, Cherry, Birch and Hickory. There are many more available to compliment – enhance – or match existing furniture. Hardwoods as a norm have a tighter grain.
Pine and Aspen are the most common softwoods used by us. Items made from softwoods are just as durable as hardwood projects.
The wood type chosen is our customer’s preference. This can be because of the grain – if the project is to be painted – stained – or a combination of finishes.
FINISHING PROJECTS
Upon completion of the project. The entire item is completely hand sanded to assure that it is completely smooth.
We then wipe down with a tack cloth to remove all dust particles prior to hand application of the stain /paint of choice.
Then 3-4 coats of lacquer are applied *more depending on the projected use Hand rubbed Final Finish
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
- Q) Can I combine ideas from a number of plans to make my project/projects to fit my
needs?
A) Yes – show us your idea and we will work with you to incorporate them in a workable project. - Q) Can I have glass instead of wood in the door frames?
A) Yes – This is your project and we want to make it special for you. - Q) Can I order my wood product unfinished?
A) Yes – all of our projects are available to you unfinished - Q) What type of knobs or pulls do you use?
A) We usually use a solid wood either square or round in 2 different sizes. We also have 2 styles
of wood pulls. - Q) Can I use my own knobs?
A) Yes – we will attach your special knobs. - Q) Do you have samples of the stains that you have on hand?
A) Yes – we have our regular stains on both oak and pine for your inspection.
HOW TO DECIDE WHAT TYPE OF WOOD TO USE
Each customer has their own special needs and wants — these are the most important points that we aim to fill first – from there we give our suggestions.
Our suggestions to most customers is that we use a #1 grade lumber on an area that they want the character of the wood to show, such as ‘Knotty Pine’ –or– if the area is to be painted or textured. The #1 grade is a little less expensive than the Select grade.
Whether you use a hardwood or a softwood is mostly a matter of your preference. Both types have their own special characteristics — beauty — durability and personal preference.
We use all solid wood for our projects – there is no particle board or wafer board.
All of our projects can be built in your choice of lumber type to compliment or enhance your present furniture décor.