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Woodworking Basics
Woodworking basics for your projects will include determining the
choice of wood and how to work with your wood and tools. Plus you’ll
need to know how to finish the wood and manage any project issues
that arise, too.
Choice of Wood
When choosing wood for your woodworking projects, you can select
hardwood or softwood. The type is determined by the tree and your
project needs.
For example, let’s say you have a wood flooring project. Top choices
for wood flooring are first and mostly oak followed by maple, then
cherry, pine, hickory and other hardwoods that are more durable than
softwoods; whereas you might choose a pine, fir or cedar for shelves
or a chest of drawers.
Other wood considerations are of course budget and features or what
you want to use your creation for. For instance, your local store
may sell regional lumber precut to size that’s just right for your
next shelving unit and this may be just the thing for your budget
and needs.
Wood Issues
To work out any kinks or knots in your wood, you may need special
tools and sand paper. Same thing with splitting or cracks in any of
your wood. Some people deal with these issues by making them a
feature or focal in the product, like centering a glass table top on
top of a discolored area that coordinate with a lamp on the glass
surface.
You also need to consider handling and maintenance of your wood
project – both during your work stages and afterwards. For example,
with regards to staining and finishes, you will need to learn about
products available in your budget and maintenance needs; like
checking into penetrating seals that require waxing and upkeep
versus surface finishes that need less work and maintenance like
spot finishing and light mopping afterwards for upkeep.
And if you run into stain issues, you need to do a little research
into stain removal. Keep a handy booklet or chart around to know how
to get rid of grease, oil, crayon, gum and other stains and messes –
fast!
There’s much more to know about your woodworking experience! To get
the most out of your projects, stay tuned for more lessons in this
woodworking series. And of course, if need to rush on ahead for
whatever reason with your project plans, grab more tips,
back-to-basics and much more with an immediate download of your own
copy of:
“Woodworking Essentials”
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