2018-01-03T16:26:23Z

G&S Specialist Timber:

The Properties of Tulipwood

2017-12-15T10:17:13Z

G&S Specialist Timber: Protected "The Properties of Tulipwood" ([edit=author] (indefinite))

= Introduction =

Tulipwood is the pinkish and yellowish wood which is wielded from tulip tress found in the Eastern side of North America and parts of China. In America, the wood is referred to tulip poplar, even though the tree has no relation to the poplars. This reference is due to the trees height, which can exceed 100 feet.

Tulipwood is very light, approximately 490kg per cubic meter, but it is very strong. The wood can be stained very easily, and in some cases, is used as a low-cost alternative to walnut and cherry, particularly in furniture and doors.

[[File:Tulipwood.jpg]]

= Properties =

The green colour with tulipwood darkens upon exposure to UV light, resulting in the wood turning brown. This type of wood has a medium to fine texture, with the size of the sapwood and other characteristics varying upon the region it is grown.

Tulipwood offers many properties for its use:

* Low bending
* Shock resistant
* Offers stiff and compressed values

Tulipwood is highly strong for its weight, making it ideal for laminated beams and structures. Tulipwood is a common material due to its versatility and dimensional stability. It has little tendency to split when nailed, and the material holds paint, enamel and stain incredibly well.

= Brazilian Tulipwood =

Brazilian Tulipwood is a different species of a very dense, high-quality wood. It is known to be yielded by Dalbergia decipularis, a species restricted to a small area in Brazil. This type of wood can come in a variation of colours within its appearance, which can be streaked with yellows, reds, oranges and pinks.

The pores on this material are open and medium-sized, with the grain straight, offering a fine texture. Brazilian Tulipwood is a common material due to its resistance to decay and insect attacks. With its high density, the material turns incredibly well and holds a high polish.

Common uses for Brazilian Tulipwood include:

* Fine furniture
* Musical instruments
* Small turned objects
* Veneer
* Marquetry

= Australian Tulipwood =

Australian Tulipwood is the common name of Harpullia, with certain varieties prized for their dark coloured timber. The most commonly known of this material is Harpullia pendula, which is planted along the east coast of Australia as a street tree.

As the material is tough, heavy, fine grained and highly durable, it is excellent for turnery and cabinet timber.

= Common Uses =

This type of wood offers many desirable characteristics, and is suitable for a wide variety of important uses in varying industries, such as:

* Construction
* Interior joinery
* Furniture
* Kitchen cabinets
* Doors
* Panelling
* Mouldings
* Edged-glued panels
* Plywood
* Turning
* Carving

Tulipwood is the second most available species due to its mellow colour and high-performance properties, including its great stability and ease of machinery.

The Properties of Tulipwood

2017-12-15T10:16:57Z

G&S Specialist Timber: Created page with "= Introduction = Tulipwood is the pinkish and yellowish wood which is wielded from tulip tress found in the Eastern side of North America and parts of China. In America, the woo..."

= Introduction =

Tulipwood is the pinkish and yellowish wood which is wielded from tulip tress found in the Eastern side of North America and parts of China. In America, the wood is referred to tulip poplar, even though the tree has no relation to the poplars. This reference is due to the trees height, which can exceed 100 feet.

Tulipwood is very light, approximately 490kg per cubic meter, but it is very strong. The wood can be stained very easily, and in some cases, is used as a low-cost alternative to walnut and cherry, particularly in furniture and doors.

[[File:Tulipwood.jpg]]

= Properties =

The green colour with tulipwood darkens upon exposure to UV light, resulting in the wood turning brown. This type of wood has a medium to fine texture, with the size of the sapwood and other characteristics varying upon the region it is grown.

Tulipwood offers many properties for its use:

* Low bending
* Shock resistant
* Offers stiff and compressed values

Tulipwood is highly strong for its weight, making it ideal for laminated beams and structures. Tulipwood is a common material due to its versatility and dimensional stability. It has little tendency to split when nailed, and the material holds paint, enamel and stain incredibly well.

= Brazilian Tulipwood =

Brazilian Tulipwood is a different species of a very dense, high-quality wood. It is known to be yielded by Dalbergia decipularis, a species restricted to a small area in Brazil. This type of wood can come in a variation of colours within its appearance, which can be streaked with yellows, reds, oranges and pinks.

The pores on this material are open and medium-sized, with the grain straight, offering a fine texture. Brazilian Tulipwood is a common material due to its resistance to decay and insect attacks. With its high density, the material turns incredibly well and holds a high polish.

Common uses for Brazilian Tulipwood include:

* Fine furniture
* Musical instruments
* Small turned objects
* Veneer
* Marquetry

= Australian Tulipwood =

Australian Tulipwood is the common name of Harpullia, with certain varieties prized for their dark coloured timber. The most commonly known of this material is Harpullia pendula, which is planted along the east coast of Australia as a street tree.

As the material is tough, heavy, fine grained and highly durable, it is excellent for turnery and cabinet timber.

= Common Uses =

This type of wood offers many desirable characteristics, and is suitable for a wide variety of important uses in varying industries, such as:

* Construction
* Interior joinery
* Furniture
* Kitchen cabinets
* Doors
* Panelling
* Mouldings
* Edged-glued panels
* Plywood
* Turning
* Carving

Tulipwood is the second most available species due to its mellow colour and high-performance properties, including its great stability and ease of machinery.

File:Tulipwood.jpg

2017-12-15T10:15:50Z

G&S Specialist Timber:

Wood in Architecture

2017-12-06T16:54:00Z

G&S Specialist Timber: Protected "Wood in Architecture" ([edit=author] (indefinite))

= Introduction =

Wood is an incredibly versatile and cost-effective material, so it is used in a huge variety of applications and situations. There are a number of benefits to using wood in architecture, and you can find different varieties of the material used in many structures.

= Benefits of Wood =

There are a huge number of benefits associated with the use of wood in the construction and architecture industry, including wood being:

* A Renewable Material – we are increasingly becoming aware of the importance of using renewable materials in all areas of life, including construction and architecture. Wood is a renewable material and uses less energy and resources to process compared to other building materials. As wood has the capacity to store and remove CO2 from the atmosphere, it can have a particularly beneficial impact on the environment.
* A Strong Material – it is no accident that wood has been used in construction for thousands of years. It is an incredibly durable material and can provide a strong structure for buildings. As wood can actually be better at supporting its own weight than other materials such as steel, it makes an excellent construction material.
* An Efficient Material – wood can be incredibly efficient for a number of reasons. It is an excellent insulator, making it cost-efficient for those inhabiting the structure. It is also cost-efficient when building with the material, as these structures can be built faster than those that use other materials.

= Wooden Structures =

Wooden structures are very much a thing of the present and of the future. There are numerous examples of innovative and interesting wooden structures, including:

* SunnyHills, Japan. This cake shop in Tokyo, Japan is an excellent example of innovative architecture using wood. The structure was designed by Japanese architect, Kengo Kuma and is formed from 5000 metres of wooden strips which wrap around the three-storey building creating a lattice effect. The structure is reminiscent of a bamboo basket and is created using the Jiigokugumi technique which fits the slats together with the use of glue or nails.
* Tamedia Office Building, Switzerland. The seven-storey building in Zurich, Switzerland uses timber in an innovative way to create a stylish yet sustainable building. The wood used in the structure is well and truly on display to be seen by those who pass by, but the incredible part of the building is inside where the design has created thermal barriers, allowing for the heating and cooling of the space through the extraction of air.
* Forté, Australia, The apartment building is constructed from cross laminated timber and stands at 32.2m tall. It is estimated that the wood in the building will store 761 tonnes of CO2, making it a fantastic benefit to the environment.

= Types of Wood in Architecture =

Many different types of wood can be used in construction and architecture, however, there are some types that have proved to be more popular for their beneficial properties, including:

* Timber – a durable and hardwearing wood which is easy to work with.
* Cedar – a dense and lightweight wood which is resistant to decay.
* Pine – an attractive wood which is also inexpensive.
* Oak – a durable wood which is resistant to insect damage.

= Conclusion =

Wood has been an incredibly popular construction material for thousands of years, and it seems as though it is becoming more popular as we become more aware of the impact of other building materials on the environment.

= Find Out More =

Related Articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

* [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Physical_Properties_of_Wood Physical Properties of Wood]
* [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Recognising_wood_rot_and_insect_damage_in_buildings Recognising Wood Rot and Insect Damage in Buildings]
* [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/The_differences_between_hardwood_and_softwood The Differences Between Hardwood and Softwood]
* [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/The_Properties_of_Walnut The Properties of Walnut]
* [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/The_Properties_of_Padauk_Wood The Properties of Padauk Wood]
* [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/The_Differences_Between_Engineered_Flooring_and_Solid_Hardwood_Flooring The Differences Between Engineered Flooring and Solid Hardwood Flooring]

--[[User:G&S Specialist Timber|G&S Specialist Timber]] 16:53, 06 Dec 2017 (BST)

[[Category:Design]]

2017-11-13T08:59:37Z

G&S Specialist Timber: Created page with "File:Cherry Wood.jpg = Introduction = Cherry is a deciduous hardwood that possesses a fine, straight grain ranging from reddish brown to blond. The cherry tree itself can r..."

Physical Properties of Wood

2017-09-06T14:39:06Z

G&S Specialist Timber:

[[File:Pile of wood from forrest.jpg]]

= Introduction =

Wood is one of the most versatile and widely used materials in the world. It can be used in anything from wood carving and creating small wooden items, such as chairs and rocking horses, to building timber structures and sheds.

It also has a lot of scientific properties associated with it, and every type of wood that is available can exhibit similar, and also different, properties. As such, it is important to understand how different types of wood can be used, so you can make sure that you don’t use the wrong type of wood in your project.

= Types of wood =

There are two distinct types of wood:

* Hardwoods come from deciduous trees – trees whose leaves fall each autumn – such as oak, mahogany, beech, and birch.
* Softwoods come from coniferous trees – trees whose cones/needles remain all year round – such as cedar, spruce, fir, cypress, and pine.

= Specific gravity =

The specific gravity (SG) of a substance, is the ratio between the density of the specific substance and the density of a reference substance provided which occupies the same volume. In most cases, the reference substance is water, as its density, in terms of grams per cubic centimetre, is one.

If moisture content is neglected or minimised, the more rings that a tree has within a given space, the denser it is, meaning its specific gravity is higher. Woods that have a higher specific gravity tend to have more lignin in their cells – this increases the rigidity of the wood and its resistance to rotting – and fewer air spaces, meaning that it can’t intake water easily compared to lower specific gravity woods.

= Moisture content =

One of the most noticeable properties of wood is that it is a hygroscopic material, meaning that it tends to absorb moisture from the air depending on the humidity of its surroundings. If the humidity is relatively high, then the wood will absorb more moisture.

Moisture content is very important when using wood in building, crafting, and manufacturing as it can affect the strength and stiffness of wood. This is because the presence of water affects the bonds between the fibres, effectively weakening the wood and making it more pliable.

= Temperature =

It is important to understand the thermal properties that wood exhibits.

Thermal conductivity is the ability of a material to conduct heat. For wood, it can range between 0.01 and 0.2 W m-1 K-1, which is relatively low, considering that for copper, it is over 400. The reason for this is because wood is quite porous. The values have a wide range because thermal conductivity decreases as the density decreases.

Thermal expansion is also relatively low in wood, meaning that it can retain its original structure in hot climates.

In freezing temperatures, the water within the wood can expand, causing the it to crack. However, since it has a low thermal conductivity, it means that, in cold weather, it can retain its warm interior and keep the cold weather out, which is why wood cabins are relatively common in arctic conditions.

--[[User:G%26S_Specialist_Timber|G&S Specialist Timber]] 09:10, 17 Jan 2017 (BST)

= Find out more =

=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===

* 11 things you didn't know about wood.
* Ancient Woodland.
* Birch wood.
* Carpentry.
* Chip carving.
* Confederation of Timber Industries.
* Cross-laminated timber.
* Definition of tree for planning purposes.
* Engineered bamboo.
* European Union Timber Regulation.
* Forests.
* Forest ownership.
* Forest Stewardship Council.
* Lime wood.
* Padauk wood.
* Pine leaves.
* Plywood.
* Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification.
* Softwood.
* Timber.
* Timber preservation.
* Timber vs wood.
* Tree preservation order.
* Tree rights.
* Types of timber.
* Walnut.

[[Category:Products_/_components]]

File:Pile of wood from forrest.jpg

2017-09-06T14:38:41Z

G&S Specialist Timber:

2017-08-14T07:38:39Z

G&S Specialist Timber: Created page with "File:13sycamore.jpgFile:13sycamore.jpg == Introduction == Sycamore wood, also known as European sycamore or Acer pseudoplatanus, are deciduous trees with broad leaves..."

[[File:13sycamore.jpg]][[File:13sycamore.jpg]]

== Introduction ==

Sycamore wood, also known as European sycamore or Acer pseudoplatanus, are deciduous trees with broad leaves. They can grow up to 115 feet, or 35 metres, with a trunk that is three to four feet diameter, or one to two metres. Its sapwood is often more utilised than the heartwood, providing light golden to reddish brown wood.

This tree is thought to have been introduced in the UK in the Middle Ages, having since then become a naturalised species. It is more likely to be found in southern, eastern, and central Europe. The botanical name, Acer pseudoplatanus, refers to ‘like a plane tree’, as its leaves are superficially similar to those in the Platanus genus.

== Properties ==

With a typically straight grain with occasional waves, sycamore wood has a fine yet even texture. This wood has a rating of perishable or non-durable when it comes to rot resistance, so it is vital to ensure that it does not take in any water. However, its strength properties are high such as oak trees. It is also susceptible to termites, and it must be treated accordingly to prevent decay.

Sycamore has no characteristic odour and it does not stain or taint food, which makes it ideal for kitchenware use. The wood has an average weight of 38 lbs/ft3, or approximately 615 kg/m3 when dried.

== Woodworking ==

Whether with machine tools or by hand tools, sycamore wood is relatively easy to work with in woodworking. Although some blotches may occur when staining, sycamore wood glues, turns, and finishes well. The use of a gel stain, for example, can be a good solution to provide an even colour throughout. This wood takes well to screws and nails, providing an excellent base for paint and polish.

Its use, however, may require caution, as sycamore wood and other Acer genus trees have been known to cause respiratory effects similar to asthma, irritate the skin, and cause a runny nose.

== Common Uses ==

Although not as popular as other maple species of trees, European sycamore can still be utilised for a wide variety of projects. Should screws or nails need to be used, pre-drilling is often advised. This type of wood can burn easily, and allowing for it to acclimatise to the surrounding environment is recommended.

When using sycamore wood for woodworking, it is often used for:

* Cabinets
* Veneer
* Kitchenware
* Musical instruments
* Small speciality wood items
* Turned objects

With regards to tools, it is recommended to utilise stellite-tipped saw teeth and tungsten carbide cutting tools. With sawing and planing, the occasional waviness of the sycamore grain may make these processes more difficult. The cutting angle and the feed rate should be reduced.

--[[User:G&S Specialist Timber|G&S Specialist Timber]] 08:38, 14 Aug 2017 (BST)

[[Category:Design]]

File:13sycamore.jpg

2017-08-14T07:35:00Z

G&S Specialist Timber:

The history and techniques of woodturning

2017-07-03T10:16:14Z

G&S Specialist Timber: Protected "History and Techniques of Woodturning" ([edit=author] (indefinite) [move=author] (indefinite))

The history and techniques of woodturning

2017-07-03T10:15:54Z

G&S Specialist Timber: Replaced content with " "

The history and techniques of woodturning

2017-07-03T10:13:54Z

G&S Specialist Timber:

The various natures of wood define the technique of [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning woodturning]. The grain of the wood will change the orientation relative to the axis and the types of tools and techniques needed. No matter what, the grain is always perpendicular to the direction of rotation. There are several other factors which will affect your woodturning, such as moisture and the character of the wood. So, what is [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools/woodturning-box-sets woodturning], where did it originate from, and what are the techniques available?

[[File:Woodturning1.jpg|link=File:Woodturning1.jpg]]

= What is Woodturning? =

[http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning Woodturning] is the art of using tools to cut and mould shapes onto the wood while it turns on its axis of rotation. It usually uses the main tool called a [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-lathes wood lathe] which performs operations such as sanding, cutting, knurling, facing, turning, drilling and deformation. The workman operating the machine is known as a turner, and the craft is traditionally referred to as turnery.

Through woodturning, you can make items such as candlesticks, lamps, rolling pins, egg cups, chess pieces, or any wooden piece moulded into a different form. Even though industrial production has replaced much of the production of these items, the wood lathe and turnery is still extremely relevant in the bespoke making of items. Whether this is a hobby or means of employment, woodturning can not only [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools tailor your tools], save time and money, it is also a fun and [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-finishes satisfying art].

[[File:Woodturning2.jpg|link=File:Woodturning2.jpg]]

= The History of Woodturning =

Although we know that the craft of woodturning dates way back, it is limited because of the nature of wood with its fibres prone to rotting. Early lathe workers would use their bare feet to hold the cutting tools in place while using their hands to power the lathe.

Our first knowledge of bowls and cups being made through woodturning date between 500 and 1500 AD. This comes from excavated shipwrecks such as the Oseburg burial ship and the Mary Rose.

As early as the 1500s, a separate fly wheel would power the lathe, but as time progressed the machine adapted to power sources such as water, electricity and steam.

In the 19th and early 20th century, English woodturners would work in turning shops, usually using a master and apprentice system. In the US, [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning woodturnin]g was also a part of the school system curriculum. This included learning how to build furniture and tool management skills – some which can still be seen in some schools today.

[[File:Woodturning3.jpg|link=File:Woodturning3.jpg]]

= Techniques of Woodturning =

With the understanding of some basic [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning wood turning] techniques and having the correct equipment, you can get extremely creative and produce anything from traditional wooden items to avant-garde style creations.

* Spindle Turning- This is the most common and basic technique in wood turning, and is the simple process of turning the spindle once mounting the wood between the head and tailstock of your lathe. There are several types of spindles which can be used and can be chosen according to individual applications.

* Decorative [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools/spindle-gouges Spindle Turning-] This differs to normal spindle turning as it included roughing, sizing and smoothing the stocks of wood. This process needs a more elaborate form of cutting which can make more intricate grooves as well as curves and shapes.

* Segmented Turning- This turning method involved several pieces of wood taken together to form a wood blank. Every segment of wood is glued together before turning. The segmented turning process can create some of the most exciting formations and patterns.

* Faceplate Turning- This single fluid technique does differ to spindle turning and allows much more freedom. [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/faceplates A faceplate] is a circular metal plate which fixes onto the end of [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-lathes your lathe] and can help to hold and save time.

* Bowl Turning- An experienced turner can use a [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools/bowl-gouges bowl gouge] to get a more required result. This technique requires a gouge bevel held on a wood blank and transformed into a bowl shape. With the help of [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools/scrapers scraping tools], you can create the perfect bowl.

* Alternative techniques include Eccentric turning, therming, green turning, ornamental and much more.

--[[User:G%26S_Specialist_Timber|G&S Specialist Timber]] 11:12, 03 Jul 2017 (BST)

The history and techniques of woodturning

2017-07-03T10:12:54Z

G&S Specialist Timber:

The various natures of wood define the technique of [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning woodturning]. The grain of the wood will change the orientation relative to the axis and the types of tools and techniques needed. No matter what, the grain is always perpendicular to the direction of rotation. There are several other factors which will affect your woodturning, such as moisture and the character of the wood. So, what is [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools/woodturning-box-sets woodturning], where did it originate from, and what are the techniques available?

[[File:Woodturning1.jpg|link=File:Woodturning1.jpg]]

= What is Woodturning? =

[http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning Woodturning] is the art of using tools to cut and mould shapes onto the wood while it turns on its axis of rotation. It usually uses the main tool called a [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-lathes wood lathe] which performs operations such as sanding, cutting, knurling, facing, turning, drilling and deformation. The workman operating the machine is known as a turner, and the craft is traditionally referred to as turnery.

Through woodturning, you can make items such as candlesticks, lamps, rolling pins, egg cups, chess pieces, or any wooden piece moulded into a different form. Even though industrial production has replaced much of the production of these items, the wood lathe and turnery is still extremely relevant in the bespoke making of items. Whether this is a hobby or means of employment, woodturning can not only [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools tailor your tools], save time and money, it is also a fun and [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-finishes satisfying art].

[[File:Woodturning2.jpg|link=File:Woodturning2.jpg]]

= The History of Woodturning =

Although we know that the craft of woodturning dates way back, it is limited because of the nature of wood with its fibres prone to rotting. Early lathe workers would use their bare feet to hold the cutting tools in place while using their hands to power the lathe.

Our first knowledge of bowls and cups being made through woodturning date between 500 and 1500 AD. This comes from excavated shipwrecks such as the Oseburg burial ship and the Mary Rose.

As early as the 1500s, a separate fly wheel would power the lathe, but as time progressed the machine adapted to power sources such as water, electricity and steam.

In the 19th and early 20th century, English woodturners would work in turning shops, usually using a master and apprentice system. In the US, [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning woodturnin]g was also a part of the school system curriculum. This included learning how to build furniture and tool management skills – some which can still be seen in some schools today.

[[File:Woodturning3.jpg|link=File:Woodturning3.jpg]]

= Techniques of Woodturning =

With the understanding of some basic [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning wood turning] techniques and having the correct equipment, you can get extremely creative and produce anything from traditional wooden items to avant-garde style creations.

* Spindle Turning- This is the most common and basic technique in wood turning, and is the simple process of turning the spindle once mounting the wood between the head and tailstock of your lathe. There are several types of spindles which can be used and can be chosen according to individual applications.

* Decorative [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools/spindle-gouges Spindle Turning-] This differs to normal spindle turning as it included roughing, sizing and smoothing the stocks of wood. This process needs a more elaborate form of cutting which can make more intricate grooves as well as curves and shapes.

* Segmented Turning- This turning method involved several pieces of wood taken together to form a wood blank. Every segment of wood is glued together before turning. The segmented turning process can create some of the most exciting formations and patterns.

* Faceplate Turning- This single fluid technique does differ to spindle turning and allows much more freedom. [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/faceplates A faceplate] is a circular metal plate which fixes onto the end of [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-lathes your lathe] and can help to hold and save time.

* Bowl Turning- An experienced turner can use a [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools/bowl-gouges bowl gouge] to get a more required result. This technique requires a gouge bevel held on a wood blank and transformed into a bowl shape. With the help of [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools/scrapers scraping tools], you can create the perfect bowl.

* Alternative techniques include Eccentric turning, therming, green turning, ornamental and much more.

--[[User:G&S Specialist Timber|G&S Specialist Timber]] 11:12, 03 Jul 2017 (BST)

The history and techniques of woodturning

2017-07-03T10:12:30Z

G&S Specialist Timber: Created page with "The various natures of wood define the technique of [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning woodturning]. The grain of the wood will change the orientation relative to..."

The various natures of wood define the technique of [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning woodturning]. The grain of the wood will change the orientation relative to the axis and the types of tools and techniques needed. No matter what, the grain is always perpendicular to the direction of rotation. There are several other factors which will affect your woodturning, such as moisture and the character of the wood. So, what is [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools/woodturning-box-sets woodturning], where did it originate from, and what are the techniques available?

[[File:Woodturning1.jpg]]

= What is Woodturning? =

[http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning Woodturning] is the art of using tools to cut and mould shapes onto the wood while it turns on its axis of rotation. It usually uses the main tool called a [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-lathes wood lathe] which performs operations such as sanding, cutting, knurling, facing, turning, drilling and deformation. The workman operating the machine is known as a turner, and the craft is traditionally referred to as turnery.

Through woodturning, you can make items such as candlesticks, lamps, rolling pins, egg cups, chess pieces, or any wooden piece moulded into a different form. Even though industrial production has replaced much of the production of these items, the wood lathe and turnery is still extremely relevant in the bespoke making of items. Whether this is a hobby or means of employment, woodturning can not only [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools tailor your tools], save time and money, it is also a fun and [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-finishes satisfying art].

[[File:Woodturning2.jpg]]

= The History of Woodturning =

Although we know that the craft of woodturning dates way back, it is limited because of the nature of wood with its fibres prone to rotting. Early lathe workers would use their bare feet to hold the cutting tools in place while using their hands to power the lathe.

Our first knowledge of bowls and cups being made through woodturning date between 500 and 1500 AD. This comes from excavated shipwrecks such as the Oseburg burial ship and the Mary Rose.

As early as the 1500s, a separate fly wheel would power the lathe, but as time progressed the machine adapted to power sources such as water, electricity and steam.

In the 19th and early 20th century, English woodturners would work in turning shops, usually using a master and apprentice system. In the US, [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning woodturnin]g was also a part of the school system curriculum. This included learning how to build furniture and tool management skills – some which can still be seen in some schools today.

[[File:Woodturning3.jpg]]

= Techniques of Woodturning =

With the understanding of some basic [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning wood turning] techniques and having the correct equipment, you can get extremely creative and produce anything from traditional wooden items to avant-garde style creations.

* Spindle Turning- This is the most common and basic technique in wood turning, and is the simple process of turning the spindle once mounting the wood between the head and tailstock of your lathe. There are several types of spindles which can be used and can be chosen according to individual applications.

* Decorative [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools/spindle-gouges Spindle Turning-] This differs to normal spindle turning as it included roughing, sizing and smoothing the stocks of wood. This process needs a more elaborate form of cutting which can make more intricate grooves as well as curves and shapes.

* Segmented Turning- This turning method involved several pieces of wood taken together to form a wood blank. Every segment of wood is glued together before turning. The segmented turning process can create some of the most exciting formations and patterns.

* Faceplate Turning- This single fluid technique does differ to spindle turning and allows much more freedom. [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/faceplates A faceplate] is a circular metal plate which fixes onto the end of [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-lathes your lathe] and can help to hold and save time.

* Bowl Turning- An experienced turner can use a [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools/bowl-gouges bowl gouge] to get a more required result. This technique requires a gouge bevel held on a wood blank and transformed into a bowl shape. With the help of [http://www.toolsandtimber.co.uk/tools/woodturning/woodturning-hand-tools/scrapers scraping tools], you can create the perfect bowl.

* Alternative techniques include Eccentric turning, therming, green turning, ornamental and much more.

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2017-07-03T10:11:41Z

G&S Specialist Timber:

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2017-07-03T10:11:10Z

G&S Specialist Timber:

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2017-07-03T10:10:41Z

G&S Specialist Timber:

Sapele wood

2017-05-17T08:10:44Z

G&S Specialist Timber: Created page with "= Introduction = Entandrophragma cylindricum, or what it’s most commonly known as Sapele, is a member of the mahogany family. Sapele is a timber originating from tropical Afri..."

= Introduction =

Entandrophragma cylindricum, or what it’s most commonly known as Sapele, is a member of the mahogany family. Sapele is a timber originating from tropical Africa and grows to incredible dimensions; up to a height of 45m and a diameter of 10m.

It is harder and heavier than African mahogany, weighing about 640kg/m3 when dried. This wood can also range from the Ivory Coast to the Cameroons and eastward through Zaire to Uganda.

Sapele’s colour tends to darken with age, from a golden brown to a dark, reddish hue. Besides the common ribbon pattern seen on quarter sawn boards, Sapele is also known for a wide variety of other figured grain patterns, such as: pommele, quilted, mottled, wavy, beeswing, and fiddleback.

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= Properties =

Sapele has great properties of durability, strength, and density, and can be used both internally and externally. This mahogany wood can be used for skirting boards, architraves, flooring, picture frames, furniture construction, mouldings, doors, conservatories, and panelling.

The texture of the grain is interlocked and sometimes wavy, with a fine uniform texture and good natural luster. Sapele has a distinct, cedar-like scent while being worked.

The hardness, medium density, and propensity for straight grained boles, makes Sapele wood very stable. This timber travels a long distance to reach the UK, but with its natural superior stability, the wood remains undamaged.

Being much harder than African or American mahogany, the resistance to indention, bending strength, and stiffness is almost equal with English oak.

= Common Uses =

It is very popular for use in joinery and furniture making due to its exceptional stability, consistency of quality, and cost effectiveness.

Sapele is a popular choice for veneers on sheet materials, which are widely used for furniture and cabinet making. This wood can be stained, polished, waxed, oiled, and varnished. Being most often used for exterior applications (as a window and door material) this wood is almost completely rot and weather resistant. It is also ideal for painted applications due to its fine graining.

Among its more exotic uses, Sapele is used for the back and sides of acoustic guitar bodies and the tops of electric guitar bodies. It is also used in manufacturing the neck piece of ukuleles and 26- and 36- string harps.

Sapele is a commonly exported and an economically important African wood species, being sold both in timber and veneer form. It is occasionally used as a substitute for Genuine Mahogany, and is sometimes referred to as Sapele Mahogany.

The availability of Sapele adds to its many valued attributes to make it easily and sustainably sourced. With the consistently high and steadily available supply of Sapele, it gives this timber species a small price tag and big popularity ratings amongst those who have tried using it as an alternative to genuine Mahogany.

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2017-05-17T08:05:03Z

G&S Specialist Timber:

The Differences Between Engineered Flooring and Solid Hardwood Flooring

2017-05-16T08:02:28Z

G&S Specialist Timber: Protected "The Differences Between Engineered Flooring and Solid Hardwood Flooring" ([edit=author] (indefinite) [move=author] (indefinite))

= Introduction =

Engineered and solid hardwood flooring are very similar, when on the floor, engineered boards look identical to solid wood. Although they look the same, they can act and react very differently. Engineered floors are tougher, but solid wood flooring can last longer.

= Properties of Engineered Flooring =

Engineered flooring is made up of cleverly constructed core boards and timber that are effectively layer after layer of ply that are bonded together. These boards are topped off with a lamella or top layer of solid wood, which is what makes engineered wood flooring look just like solid wood.

Engineered flooring can be installed as a floating floor, meaning if you moved home, you could take the floor with you as it does not stick to the subfloor. Wood is a natural product meaning it can be affected by humidity and temperature, but the construction of engineered wood makes it less reactive to these changes. This vastly reduces these fluctuations, making it structurally solid and much less likely to damage or warp.

Engineered timber is now the most common type of wood flooring used globally, and the technology has enabled the production of much wider boards.

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= Properties of Solid Hardwood Flooring =

Wood flooring is made from solid wood. No matter what species or grade of wood comes to mind, you’ll likely be able to track it down in a solid wood flooring option. Solid wood flooring is made of 100% natural wood, and the solid wood boards are refined from one piece of hardwood, then treated with a protective coating.

Solid wood provides authenticity of a classic wooden floor, and usually thick boards mean they can be resanded and refinished numerous times without any damage – giving a quality floor which will last a lifetime.

Solid Hardwood is for purists who have long-time prospects in mind and do not mind installing different types of flooring in different parts of the house.

= Popular Uses =

Engineered wood is more suitable for higher moisture areas and rooms with environments with varying humidity levels such as kitchens and conservatories, this also makes it suitable for use over concrete floors. Engineered wood has a greater range of installation methods, such as stapling or nailing, click or glue.

As solid wood is one piece of hardwood from top to bottom, it needs to be nailed or stapled down to a permanent floor, meaning a concrete base is a problem, and it can never be installed on a floating basis.

Solid hardwood is best used in living areas, bedrooms, hallways, and dining rooms. Also, it is wise to avoid solid wood in kitchens, only installing if waterproof mats are placed near sink and dishwasher.

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= Wood Species =

There are fewer choices with engineered wood. Red oak, hickory, and Brazilian Cherry are the most popular wood species for engineered flooring.

There are far more choices of wood species for solid hardwood. Red and white oak, maple, hickory, and pine are the most popular solids.

--[[User:G%26S_Specialist_Timber|G&S Specialist Timber]] 09:01, 16 May 2017 (BST)

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