A birch is a thin-leaved deciduous hardwood tree of the genus Betula in the family Betulaceae, which also includes alders, hazels, and hornbeams. It is closely related to the beech-oak family Fagaceae. Birch species are generally small to medium-sized trees or shrubs, mostly of northern temperate and boreal climates. The simple leaves are alternate, singly or doubly serrate, feather-veined, petiolate and stipulate. They often appear in pairs, but these pairs are really borne on spur-like,Continue reading “Wood Properties of Birch”
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A Lesson on Wood (How It Is Cut and Dried)
HARDWOODS VS. SOFTWOODS Here are some benefits/negatives of Hardwoods and Softwoods: Softwoods: have a faster natural growth rate, making them less dense and less fire resistant in comparison. As such, softwoods tend to be less expensive and make up the bulk (80%) of all lumber used in the construction industry. Softwoods are easier to work withContinue reading “A Lesson on Wood (How It Is Cut and Dried)”
The Legend of the Wood Spirit
The Legend Of The Wood Spirit The Wood Spirit is a European legend originating from villagers who made long journeys through the forest. On calm days when the wind lays low, there is a sense of peace and tranquility in the forest. On days when storms are brewing and winds are blowing, the trees ofContinue reading “The Legend of the Wood Spirit”
Woodcarving Safety
Woodcarving is a rewarding craft, but it requires attention to safety to prevent injuries. Here are some key tips for woodcarvers. 1. Tools and Equipment Safety Dull blades require more force and can slip. Keep all tools sharp and well maintained. Avoid improvising with tools not designed for a specific task. Continue reading “Woodcarving Safety”
How-To Book of Christmas Carving
How-To Book of Christmas Carving By The Editors Of Woodcarving Illustrated A Book Review “How-To Book of Christmas Carving” is undoubtedly one of the best books on the subject that I have ever seen. This 144-page full-color paperback book, released in the summer of 2023, is published by Fox Chapel Publishing, the publisher of theContinue reading “How-To Book of Christmas Carving”
I Need Your Help
I’m trying to find a lost email message: Yesterday, May 2, 2023 I received a message (email) from someone in British Columbia, Canada. It came from someone named Lawrence, and it contained two photos of a carving sent in for my Photo Shop. The message mentioned something about a copper wire being used in it.Continue reading “I Need Your Help”
Special Announcement
Because of the short week due to the Thanksgiving holiday there will be no Wood Chip Chatter blog post on Friday, Nov. 26. Wood Chip Chatter will return on Friday, Dec. 3 with more handy woodcarving information to help improve your knowledge and skills in the craft we all love. At this time I wantContinue reading “Special Announcement”
Thank You Everyone!
I hope everyone had a great weekend and a healthy and safe 4th of July holiday! I want to say that I launched Wood Chip Chatter over the weekend (Saturday, July 3) and the response has been overwhelming. A great big thank you to all of you who have subscribed to my blog over thisContinue reading “Thank You Everyone!”
Happy 4th of July!
Have a safe, healthy and happy Independence Day!
Wood Chip Chatter 