Blockboard is one of those materials carpenters love — it’s strong, yet light and forgiving to work on. If you’re considering materials for cabinets, doors, shelving or a long tabletop, it might be worth getting to know blockboard. This article explains…
If you’ve stepped into a beautifully designed modern house, an airy airport terminal or a striking civic building with warm wood beams overhead, there’s a good chance that you’ve already seen glulam — maybe without even knowing it. I think about…
Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) The first time I saw Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) used in a construction project, I didn’t even know that was what it was. Long, smooth beams — cleaner, straighter and often quite a bit more uniform than…
Picture yourself in your garden on a warm spring morning. The air is sweet with the new growth. You lean in to check out your rose bush, and suddenly — honeydew smeared on your fingers, curled leaves and what appears to be a…
If you’ve ever seen a wooden piece of furniture and thought it was beautiful because of the rich, natural red that looked almost polished by fire, but not quite – you’ve probably laid eyes on Bloodwood . True to its name,…
Introduction Boxwood may not be the tallest tree in the forest — but it is one of the most respected. A favorite of craftsman and musical instrument makers for 100’s of years due to its silk-like feel, creamy golden color and unsurpassed…
🌲 Let’s Start Simple: What Exactly Is Hardboard (HDF)? If you’ve ever admired the sleek finish of a painted cabinet or the sturdy base of laminate flooring, chances are, you’ve already met Hardboard, also known as High-Density Fiberboard (HDF). Take…
If you’ve ever admired the soft glow of a well-oiled cutting board or the warm tone of a handcrafted salad bowl, you’ve probably seen mineral oil at work. This humble, colorless liquid is one of the easiest and most affordable…
For years, I wrestled with finishes that looked good in the showroom but felt stiff, artificial, or just “off” when I held the piece in my hands. Then I discovered the charm of using walnut oil as a wood finish.…
If you’ve ever admired a rich, reddish-brown deck that seems to glow in the sun, there’s a good chance you were looking at Merbau wood. Known for its incredible strength, stability, and natural luster, Merbau has become one of the…
