FAQ

What is Moisture Content?

The moisture content of wood is an important factor that can affect its strength, stability, and workability.

0-5% Moisture Content: Wood with this low of moisture content is considered "bone dry." It is typically very stable and strong, but it can also be brittle and difficult to work with. This level of moisture content is common in kiln-dried lumber and is suitable for many applications.

6-10% Moisture Content: Wood with this moisture content is considered "dry." It is stable, strong, and easy to work with. This level of moisture content is suitable for most woodworking projects and is commonly used in furniture, flooring, and cabinetry.

11-15% Moisture Content: Wood with this moisture content is considered "air-dried." It is still strong and workable, but it may be more prone to warping, splitting, or shrinking as it dries. This level of moisture content is common in lumber that has been stacked and air-dried for several months.

16-20% Moisture Content: Wood with this moisture content is considered "wet." It is still strong but is much less stable than wood with lower moisture content. This level of moisture content is common in freshly sawn lumber, and the wood should be allowed to dry before it is used in any woodworking projects.

21% and above Moisture Content: Wood with this high of moisture content is considered "green." It is typically very weak, unstable, and prone to warping, shrinking, and cracking. This level of moisture content is commonly found in freshly cut logs and should be allowed to dry for an extended period before it is used in any woodworking projects.

It's worth noting that the ideal moisture content for wood can vary depending on the specific species of wood and the intended use of the wood. Different woodworking projects may require different levels of moisture content to ensure optimal strength, stability, and workability.

Our Wood

All of our redwood comes from trees that have been lying dead in the woods for over 100 years. We only use acceptably sourced wood and no live trees are ever cut. Once we clean the wood, we slab it. Some wood is fully dry when we cut it, our better wood usually sells before it is fully dry.

Overall, ethical wood sourcing is an important consideration for us and anyone who is interested in using wood in their projects, whether it is for art, furniture, or other purposes. By choosing wood that has been sourced in an ethical and sustainable manner, we can help to support healthy forests, communities, and ecosystems, while also creating beautiful and functional works of art and furniture.

Is it normal for there to be rot and cracks in my wood?

Because our woods are "rustic" small cracks or small pockets of rot are normal, but can be easily cleaned out. We will not sell you wood that is not structurally sound.

In some cases, it can be normal for wood to have rot and cracks, particularly if the wood is old or has been exposed to moisture or other environmental factors. Rot can occur when fungi or other microorganisms begin to break down the wood fibers, while cracks can be caused by changes in temperature or moisture content.

When it comes to using wood for art and live edge furniture, some degree of natural cracks and knots can be desirable as they add to the overall aesthetic appeal of the piece. These imperfections give the wood character and a unique charm that cannot be replicated in synthetic materials.

We carefully inspect the wood and assess the extent of any damage before selling it and we will not sell you wood that is not structurally sound.

In general, it is best to use high-quality wood with minimal rot or cracks for art and live edge furniture projects, as this will ensure that the final piece is both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound. Proper storage, handling, and treatment of the wood can help to minimize the risk of rot and cracking, ensuring that it retains its beauty and functionality for years to come.

What does "burl" mean?

The term "burl" refers to an unusual growth that can develop on the trunk, branches, or roots of certain trees. A burl is essentially a rounded, knotty growth on the tree that is made up of small, swirling knots and irregularities in the grain pattern of the wood.

When used in art or furniture, burl wood can add a touch of luxury and sophistication to any space. It is often used in high-end woodworking projects such as fine furniture, decorative carvings, and sculptures. Burls are also highly valued by guitar makers for their tonal qualities and distinctive grain patterns.

One of the challenges of working with burl wood is that it can be difficult to cut and shape due to the swirling grain patterns and knots. However, with careful planning and execution, burl wood can be transformed into stunning works of art and furniture.

In furniture making, burl wood is often used to create unique and highly desirable pieces such as tables, chairs, and cabinets. Because of its natural beauty, burl wood is often used in high-end or custom pieces, and it is not uncommon for burl wood furniture to be sold at a premium price.

In art, burl wood can be carved or turned into decorative objects such as vases, bowls, and figurines. The natural patterns and colors of burl wood can also be highlighted and enhanced with finishes such as oil or lacquer, adding even more depth and richness to the wood.

Overall, burl wood is a highly sought-after material in the world of art and furniture. Its unique and beautiful appearance, combined with its durability and density, make it a prized material for creating one-of-a-kind pieces that will be cherished for generations to come.

What is "wood grain" and what does it mean?

Wood grain refers to the pattern of fibers that can be seen in the surface of wood. The grain is created by the alignment and arrangement of the wood fibers, which are visible as lines or patterns in the wood.

The grain of wood can vary depending on the species of the tree, the way the wood was cut, and other factors such as the presence of knots or other irregularities in the wood. The grain can have a significant impact on the appearance and properties of the wood, and it is often an important consideration for woodworkers and others who work with wood.

Curly Grain: This is a rare and highly prized pattern, where the fibers of the wood form tight, swirling curls that are highly decorative and sought-after for use in fine furniture and woodworking projects. This is created by the way the wood fibers grow, with alternating layers of soft and hard wood producing a ripple or wave-like effect in the grain.

Straight Grain: This is the most common and simplest type of grain pattern, where the fibers of the wood run parallel to each other, creating a straight and uniform appearance.

Bird's Eye Grain: This pattern is characterized by small, circular knots or clusters that resemble the eyes of a bird. This type of grain is most commonly found in maple and other hardwoods.

What is a live edge?

Live edge wood, also known as natural edge wood, is a type of lumber that has been cut with the natural edge of the tree trunk or branch intact. Unlike traditional lumber that has been cut into standardized sizes and shapes, live edge wood preserves the organic shape and character of the tree.

Live edge wood is highly valued by woodworkers and furniture makers for its unique and natural beauty. The irregular shape of the wood, along with the bark and natural markings, give each piece of live edge wood its own distinctive character and personality. Some leave the natural holes and cracks in the wood while other artists fill them with resins.

Live edge wood is often used to create one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture such as tables, benches, and shelves. Because of its natural beauty, live edge wood is often used in rustic or modern designs, and it can be finished in a variety of ways to highlight the natural color and grain of the wood.

How much is Shipping?

All of our items ship by weight. Most items have the cost for shipping on the listing.

However for larger pieces such as table slabs and bases must be shipped on a pallet. The final price to ship these pieces is unknown until the shipment is weighed however estimates can be given based on your destination. Larger pieces over 8' will cost extra to ship as well as items going to a residential address. Contact us to discuss shipping of your newest addition.

Can't Find The Answer To Your Question?