Wood and woodwork have practice ally been giving us shelter since the birth of humans.
Since the Eighth century, we’ve been crafting wooden benches and tables in homages such as Anglo-Saxon monasteries. But it wasn’t just for aesthetic. There have been attempts to invest prosperity into furniture carving by highlighting rich finishes and intricate details in furniture designs.
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Even now, with today’s materials, it’s impossible to understand furniture without examining today’s generations of design strategies implemented into every detail from arm rests to legs. Even the most seasoned woodworkers and millwork shop drawing professionals may not know some of the more poetic stories that have surrounded these handmade wooden creations
For example, a significant family event or simply finding warmth held within an oak chair pierced perfectly for a toddler’s birthday – replacing creatures under the bed by reassurance of hardwood guards at the window frames.
Here are three fascinating facts about wood:
- It is often assumed that the terms “hardwood” and “softwood” refer to the physical nature of the wood, when, in fact, they have very little to do with it! While hardwood trees originate from a flowering plant which produces fruit or nuts with a protective coating; softwoods come from cones that open to spread seed. Which type of wood will best suit your furniture needs may depend on several factors such as durability and texture; so, it is important to research the best types of wood available before making any decisions. Thankfully, there are plenty of informative guides out there that can help you select the right one for your project.
- British oak trees can live an unparalleled 500 years, a finding as amazing as it is awe-inspiring. 750 years ago, these same oaks were prized for their sturdiness and impressive longevity; so much so that they were used to construct and adorn the medieval sensibility – from lavish grain barns to Lincoln Cathedral’s exquisite sandstone façade. Today, this 900-year-old place of worship stands proudly in Lincoln, England as a reminder of oak’s timeless might and durability.
- The dovetail joint is a classic example of craftsmanship in the world of woodworking. With roots in ancient Egypt, this joinery technique has been relied on for centuries to join furniture together without the use of mechanical fasteners. Dovetail joints are known for their durability and resilience, which is why they remain popular with woodworkers today. Used frequently by carpenters and furniture restorations experts alike, ensuring that a piece lasts a lifetime is as easy as making sure you have a few dovetail joints thrown in!
