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{{Short description|Process of making objects from wood}}
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{{about|the craft|the novel|Woodworking (novel)}}
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[[File:Ingå hembygdsmuseum Gammelgården 09.jpg|thumb|upright=1.35|Wooden house with wooden furniture, spinning wheel, loom and various tools]]
[[File:Woodcarvings of cranes.jpg|right|thumb|Artists can use woodworking to create delicate [[sculpture]]s.]]
'''Woodworking''' is the skill of making items from [[wood]], and includes [[cabinetry]], [[furniture]] making, [[wood carving]], [[woodworking joints|joinery]], [[carpentry]], and [[woodturning]].

==History==

Along with [[Rock (geology)|stone]], [[clay]], and animal parts, wood was one of the first materials worked by [[early human]]s. [[Lithic analysis|Microwear analysis]] of the [[Mousterian]] [[stone tool]]s used by the [[Neanderthal]]s show that many were used to work wood. The development of civilization was closely tied to the development of increasingly greater degrees of skill in working these materials.

Among the earliest finds of woodworking are shaped sticks displaying notches from [[Kalambo Falls]] in southern Africa, dating to around 476,000 years ago.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Barham |first1=L. |last2=Duller |first2=G. A. T. |last3=Candy |first3=I. |last4=Scott |first4=C. |last5=Cartwright |first5=C. R. |last6=Peterson |first6=J. R. |last7=Kabukcu |first7=C. |last8=Chapot |first8=M. S. |last9=Melia |first9=F. |last10=Rots |first10=V. |last11=George |first11=N. |last12=Taipale |first12=N. |last13=Gethin |first13=P. |last14=Nkombwe |first14=P. |date=2023-10-05 |title=Evidence for the earliest structural use of wood at least 476,000 years ago |journal=Nature |language=en |volume=622 |issue=7981 |pages=107–111 |doi=10.1038/s41586-023-06557-9 |issn=0028-0836 |pmc=10550827 |pmid=37730994 |bibcode=2023Natur.622..107B }}</ref> The [[Clacton Spear|Clacton spearhead]] from [[Clacton-on-Sea]], England, dating to around 400,000 years ago,<ref name="Allington">Allington-Jones, L., (2015) ''Archaeological Journal'', 172 (2) 273–296 The Clacton Spear – The Last One Hundred Years</ref> the [[Schöningen spears]], from [[Schöningen]] ([[Germany]]) dating around 300,000 years ago<ref name=":0">{{Cite journal |last1=Hutson |first1=Jarod M. |last2=Villaluenga |first2=Aritza |last3=García-Moreno |first3=Alejandro |last4=Turner |first4=Elaine |last5=Gaudzinski-Windheuser |first5=Sabine |date=November 2024 |title=Persistent predators: Zooarchaeological evidence for specialized horse hunting at Schöningen 13II-4 |journal=Journal of Human Evolution |language=en |volume=196 |article-number=103590 |doi=10.1016/j.jhevol.2024.103590 |pmid=39357283 |bibcode=2024JHumE.19603590H |doi-access=free|hdl=10810/75986 |hdl-access=free }}</ref> and the [[Lehringen spear]] from northern Germany, dating to around 120,000 years ago,<ref name=":03">{{cite journal |last1=Gaudzinski-Windheuser |first1=Sabine |last2=Kindler |first2=Lutz |last3=MacDonald |first3=Katharine |last4=Roebroeks |first4=Wil |year=2023 |title=Hunting and processing of straight-tusked elephants 125.000 years ago: Implications for Neanderthal behavior |journal=Science Advances |volume=9 |issue=5 |article-number=eadd8186 |bibcode=2023SciA....9D8186G |doi=10.1126/sciadv.add8186 |pmc=9891704 |pmid=36724231}}</ref> provide some of the first examples of wooden hunting implements. Wooden tools likely used for domestic activities including probable [[Stitching awl|awls]] have also been found at Schöningen.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Leder |first1=Dirk |last2=Lehmann |first2=Jens |last3=Milks |first3=Annemieke |last4=Koddenberg |first4=Tim |last5=Sietz |first5=Michael |last6=Vogel |first6=Matthias |last7=Böhner |first7=Utz |last8=Terberger |first8=Thomas |date=2024-04-09 |title=The wooden artifacts from Schöningen's Spear Horizon and their place in human evolution |journal=Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences |language=en |volume=121 |issue=15 |article-number=e2320484121 |doi=10.1073/pnas.2320484121 |doi-access=free |issn=0027-8424 |pmc=11009636 |pmid=38557183 |bibcode=2024PNAS..12120484L }}</ref>

[[Flint]] tools were used for carving. Since [[Neolithic|Neolithic times]], carved wooden vessels are known, for example, from the [[Linear Pottery culture]] [[water well|well]]s at Kückhofen and Eythra.

Examples of [[Bronze Age]] woodcarving include [[tree trunk]]s worked into [[coffin]]s from northern Germany and [[Denmark]] and wooden [[folding chair|folding-chair]]s. The [[List of archaeological sites by country|site]] of Fellbach-Schmieden in Germany has provided fine examples of wooden animal statues from the [[Iron Age]]. Wooden [[Cult image|idol]]s from the [[La Tène culture|La Tène]] period known from a sanctuary at the source of the [[Seine]] in [[France]].

===Ancient Egypt===
[[File:Maler der Grabkammer der Bildhauer Nebamun und Ipuki 004.jpg|thumb|Ancient Egyptian woodworking]]

There is significant evidence of advanced woodworking in [[ancient Egypt]].<ref name="Killen1994">{{cite book |title=Egyptian Woodworking and Furniture |publisher=Shire Publications |author=Killen, Geoffrey |year=1994 |isbn=0-7478-0239-4}}</ref> Woodworking is depicted in many extant ancient Egyptian drawings, and a considerable amount of ancient Egyptian [[furniture]] (such as stools, [[chair]]s, tables, [[bed]]s, [[Chest (furniture)|chests]]) have been preserved. Tombs contain a large collection of these artifacts, and the inner coffins found within them were also made of wood. The [[metal]] used by the [[Egyptians]] for woodworking tools was originally [[copper]] and eventually, after 2000 BC, [[bronze]], as [[iron working]] was unknown until much later.<ref>Leospo, Enrichetta (2001), "Woodworking in Ancient Egypt", ''The Art of Woodworking'', [[Turin]]: [[Museo Egizio]], p. 20</ref>

Commonly used woodworking tools included [[axe]]s, [[adze]]s, [[chisel]]s, [[saw|pull saws]], and [[bow drill]]s. [[Mortise and tenon]] joints are attested from the earliest [[predynastic Egypt|Predynastic period]]. These joints were strengthened using pegs, [[Butt joint|dowels]] and [[leather]] or [[Rope|cord]] lashings. [[Animal glue]] came to be used only in the [[New Kingdom of Egypt|New Kingdom period]].<ref>Leospo, pp. 20–21</ref> Ancient Egyptians invented the art of [[Wood veneer|veneering]] and used [[varnish]]es for [[wood finishing|finishing]]. However, the composition of these varnishes is unknown. Although different native [[acacia]]s were used, as was the wood from the local [[Ficus sycomorus|sycamore]] and [[tamarisk]] trees, [[deforestation]] in the [[Nile valley]] resulted in the need for the importation of wood, notably [[Cedrus libani|cedar]], but also [[Aleppo Pine|Aleppo pine]], [[buxus|boxwood]] and [[oak]], starting from the [[Second Dynasty]].<ref>Leospo, pp. 17–19</ref>

===Ancient Rome===
Woodworking was essential to the Romans. It provided material for buildings, transportation, tools, and household items. Wood also provided pipes, dyes, waterproofing materials, and heat.<ref name="Ulrich2008">{{cite book |title=Roman Woodworking |publisher=Yale University Press |author=Ulrich, Roger B. |year=2008 |isbn=978-0-300-13460-5 |oclc=192003268}}</ref>{{rp|1}}Although most examples of Roman woodworking have been lost,<ref name="Ulrich2008" />{{rp|2}} the literary record preserved much of the contemporary knowledge. [[Vitruvius]] dedicates an entire chapter of his ''[[De architectura]]'' to timber, preserving many details.<ref name="Vitruvius">{{cite book |title=De architectura |author=Vitruvius |author-link=Vitruvius |at=1:2.9.1}}</ref> [[Pliny the Elder|Pliny]], while not a botanist, dedicated six books of his [[Natural History (Pliny)|''Natural History'']] to trees and woody plants, providing a wealth of information on trees and their uses.<ref>{{cite book |title=Natural History |url=https://archive.org/details/naturalhistory07plinuoft |author=Pliny |author-link=Pliny the Elder |year=1938}}</ref>

===Ancient China===
The progenitors of Chinese woodworking are considered to be [[Lu Ban]] (魯班 {{lang-zh|p=Lǔbān}}) and his wife Lady Yun, from the [[Spring and Autumn period]] (771 to 476 BC). Lu Ban is said to have introduced the [[plane (tool)|plane]], the chalk line, and other tools to China. His teachings were supposedly left behind in the book ''Lu Ban Jing'' (魯班經, "Manuscript of Lu Ban")(魯班經 {{lang-zh|p=Lǔbān jīng}}). Despite this, it is believed that the text was written some 1500 years after his death. This book is largely filled with descriptions of dimensions for building various items, such as [[flower pot]]s, tables, [[altar]]s, etc., and also contains extensive instructions on [[Feng Shui]]. It mentions almost nothing of the intricate glue-less and nail-less [[Woodworking joints|joinery]] for which [[Chinese furniture]] was so famous.

===Modern day===
[[File:CNC machine.jpg|thumb|[[CNC machine]] that operates on wood]]
[[File:Woodworking apron.webp|thumb|Woodworking apron]]
With advances in technology and industry demands, the field of woodwork has changed. The development of Computer Numerical Control ([[CNC]]) machines, for example, has made it possible to mass-produce and reproduce products faster, with less waste, and often with more complex designs than ever before. [[CNC wood router]]s can carve complicated and highly detailed shapes into flat stock to create signs or art. [[Power tool]]s have increased the efficiency of woodworking projects and require much less physical strength than hand tools in the past.  

Skilled fine woodworking, however, remains a craft pursued by many. There remains demand for [[handcrafted]] work such as furniture and art; however, due to production rates and costs, consumer prices are higher.

Modern [[wood carving]] usually refers to works of wood art produced by woodcarvers as contemporary art. This type of woodcarving often combines traditional techniques with more modern artistic styles and concepts. Modern woodcarving can be produced in a variety of forms and styles, from realistic to abstract, and often uses unusual woods, such as rain tree or woods with unique textures, to highlight the work's uniqueness. 

In recent years, the art of modern woodcarving has become increasingly popular among woodworkers and visual art enthusiasts worldwide. Modern woodcarving art is often exhibited in art galleries and museums, and can be seen in several global contemporary art exhibitions.

== Styles and designs ==
Woodworking, especially furniture making, has many different designs/styles. Throughout its history, woodworking designs and styles have changed. Some of the more common styles are listed below. Traditional furniture styles usually include pieces that have been around for a long time and have long been associated with wealth and luxury. More modern furniture styles have been commonly used over the past few hundred years.<ref>{{Cite web |title=A Complete Guide To All The Types Of Furniture Styles |url=https://www.bassettfurniture.com/blog/furniture-style-guide.aspx |access-date=2023-04-26 |website=Bassett Furniture |language=en}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+Common woodworking/furniture styles
!Traditional & timeless styles              
!Modern furniture styles                 
|-
|Jacobean
|Antique
|-
|Dutch
|American colonial
|-
|[[Victorian decorative arts|Victorian]]
|Traditional
|-
|[[Art Deco]]
|Vintage
|-
|Sheraton
|Rustic
|-
|
|[[Retro style|Retro]]
|-
|
|Modern
|-
|
|[[Minimalism]]
|-
|
|[[Contemporary architecture|Contemporary]]
|}

==Materials==
See also [[Wood properties|Wood: Properties]] and [[Tonewood#Mechanical properties of tonewoods|Tonewood: Properties]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wood Identification Guide {{!}} The Wood Database |url=https://www.wood-database.com/wood-articles/wood-identification-guide/ |access-date=2026-05-30 |language=en-US}}</ref>

Historically, woodworkers relied on the woods native to their region until innovations in transportation and trade made more exotic woods available to the craftsman. Woods are typically sorted into three basic types: [[hardwood]]s typified by tight [[wood grain|grain]] and derived from [[broadleaf tree]]s, [[softwood]]s from [[Pinophyta|coniferous]] trees, and manufactured materials such as [[plywood]] and [[Medium-density fibreboard|MDF]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wood Identification Guide {{!}} The Wood Database |url=https://www.wood-database.com/wood-articles/wood-identification-guide/ |access-date=2026-05-30 |language=en-US}}</ref>

[[Hardwood]]s, botanically classified as angiosperms, are deciduous and shed their leaves annually in response to temperature changes.<ref name="www.hardwooddistributors.org">{{Cite web|url=http://www.hardwooddistributors.org/blog/tag/differences-american-hardwoods-and-tropical-hardwoods/|title=differences American hardwoods and tropical hardwoods {{!}} Hardwood Distributors|website=www.hardwooddistributors.org|language=en-US|access-date=2018-04-16|archive-date=2018-04-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180416074057/http://www.hardwooddistributors.org/blog/tag/differences-american-hardwoods-and-tropical-hardwoods/}}</ref> Softwoods come from trees botanically known as [[gymnosperm]]s, which are coniferous, cone-bearing, and stay green year round.<ref name="www.hardwooddistributors.org" /> Although a general pattern, [[softwood]]s are not necessarily always "softer" than hardwoods, and vice versa.<ref name="Stephen.-2012">{{Cite book|title=The practical woodworker: a comprehensive step-by-step course in working with wood|last=Stephen.|first=Corbett|date=2012|publisher=Southwater|others=Freeman, John.|isbn=978-1-78019-220-8|location=Wigston|oclc=801605649}}</ref>

Softwood is most commonly found in regions with lower temperatures and is typically less durable, lighter in weight, and more vulnerable to pests and fungal attacks than hardwoods. They typically have a paler color and a more open grain than hardwoods, which contributes to the tendency of felled softwood to shrink and swell as it dries.<ref name="Stephen.-2012" /> Softwoods usually have a lower density, around 432–592&nbsp;kg/m<sup>3</sup>, which can compromise its strength.<ref name="Stephen.-2012" /> Density, however, does vary within both softwoods and hardwoods depending on the wood's geographical origin and growth rate. However, the lower density of softwoods also allows them to have greater strength relative to their weight. In the United States, softwoods are typically cheaper and more readily available.<ref name="Stephen.-2012" /> Most softwoods are suitable for general construction, especially framing, trim, and finish work, and carcassing.<ref name="Korn-2003">{{Cite book|title=Woodworking basics: mastering the essentials of craftsmanship|last=Korn|first=Peter|date=2003|publisher=Taunton Press|isbn=1-56158-620-X|location=Newtown, CT|oclc=51810586|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/woodworkingbasic0000korn}}</ref><ref name="Stephen.-2012" />

Hardwoods are separated into two categories, temperate and tropical hardwoods, depending on their origin. Temperate hardwoods are found in the regions between the tropics and the poles and are of particular interest to woodworkers for their cost-effective aesthetic appeal and their sustainable sourcing.<ref name="Stephen.-2012" /> Tropical hardwoods are found within the equatorial belt, including Africa, Asia, and South America. Hardwoods flaunt a higher density, around 1041&nbsp;kg/m<sup>3</sup> as a result of slower growing rates, and are more stable when drying.<ref name="Stephen.-2012" /> As a result of their high density, hardwoods are typically heavier than softwoods but can also be more brittle.<ref name="Stephen.-2012" /> While there are an abundant number of hardwood species, only 200 are common enough and pliable enough to be used for woodworking.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.lowes.com/projects/build-and-remodel/lumber-buying-guide/project|title=Lumber Buying Guide|website=www.lowes.com|language=en-US|access-date=2018-04-16}}</ref> Hardwoods have a wide variety of properties, making it easy to find a hardwood to suit nearly any purpose, but they are especially suitable for outdoor use due to their strength and resilience to rot and decay.<ref name="Stephen.-2012" /> The coloring of hardwoods ranges from light to very dark, making it especially versatile for aesthetic purposes. However, because hardwoods are more closely grained, they are typically harder to work than softwoods. They are also harder to acquire in the United States and, as a result, are more expensive.<ref name="Stephen.-2012" />
[[File:Woodworking Tools at the Women's Woodshop in Minneapolis, MN.jpg|thumb|Woodworking hand tools used in class at the Women's Woodshop in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA]]
Typically, [[furniture]] such as tables and chairs is made from solid hardwood stock due to its strength and resistance to warping.<ref name="Korn-2003" /> Additionally, they also have a greater variety of grain patterns and color, and take a finish better, which allows the woodworker to exercise a great deal of artistic liberty. Hardwoods can be cut more cleanly and leave less residue on sawblades and other woodworking tools.<ref name="Korn-2003" /> Cabinet/fixture makers employ the use of [[plywood]] and other manufactured panel products. Some furniture, such as the [[Windsor chair]], involves [[green woodworking]], shaping with wood while it contains its natural moisture before drying.

=== Common softwoods used for furniture ===
[[File:Warehouse of timber at a cardboard factory. Buryatia, Russia.jpg|thumb|Warehouse of timber at a cardboard factory. [[Buryatia]], [[Russia]]]]

==== Cedar ====
[[Cedrus|Cedars]] are strong, aromatic softwoods that are capable of enduring outdoor elements, the most common of which is the western red cedar. Western red cedar can withstand wet conditions without rotting and, as a result, is commonly used for outdoor projects such as patios, outdoor furniture, and building exteriors. This wood can be easily found at most home centers in the US and Canada for a moderate price.<ref name="dummies">{{Cite news|url=https://www.dummies.com/crafts/types-of-wood-for-woodworking/|title=Types of Wood for Woodworking – dummies|work=dummies|access-date=2018-04-16|language=en-US}}</ref>

==== Fir ====
In the USA, [[fir]], also known as [[Douglas fir]], is inexpensive and readily available at local home centers. It has a characteristic straight, pronounced grain with a red-brown tint. However, its grain pattern is relatively plain, and it does not stain well, so fir is commonly used for finished products that will be painted. While commonly used for building, this softwood would also be suitable for furniture-making.<ref name="dummies" />

==== Pine ====
White [[pine]], ponderosa, and southern yellow pine are common species used in furniture-making. White pine and ponderosa are typically used for indoor projects, while Southern yellow pine is recommended for outdoor projects due to its durability.<ref>{{cite magazine |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |title=Working with pine, tips and tricks for success |url=https://www.woodmagazine.com/materials-guide/lumber/pine |magazine=Wood magazine |publisher=Meredith Corporation |date=March 2003 |access-date=29 June 2020}}</ref>

=== Common hardwoods used for furniture ===

==== Ash ====
[[Fraxinus|Ash]] is relatively easy to work with and takes stain well. However, ash can be more difficult to find than other common woods commercially, and may not be found at the local home center. Larger lumber yards should have it in stock.<ref name="dummies" /> American Ash trees have been destroyed in large numbers by an invasive species of insect known as the Emerald Ash Borer. While unfortunate for the environment, in infestation may make Ash wood more available in some areas of North America.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Emerald Ash Borer {{!}} Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service |url=https://www.aphis.usda.gov/plant-pests-diseases/eab |access-date=2026-05-30 |website=www.aphis.usda.gov |language=en}}</ref>

==== Beech ====
Hardwood of the European species [[Fagus sylvatica]] is widely used for furniture framing and carcase construction, in plywood, musical instruments (drum shells and piano blocks), and turned items like knobs.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.wood-database.com/european-beech/|title=The Wood Database|date=2009-01-03|access-date=2022-06-22|language=en-US}}</ref>

==== Birch ====
Whether yellow or white [[birch]], these hardwoods are stable and easy to work with. Despite this, birch is prone to blotching when stained, so painting birch products or sealing before staining is probably best. Birch is easily found at many home centers and is a relatively inexpensive hardwood.<ref name="dummies" />

==== Cherry ====
Easy to work with, [[Cherry#Other uses|cherry wood]] is in high demand for its reddish-brown color and ease of staining and finishing. Cherry likely will not be available at the local home center, but can be bought at a lumberyard.<ref name="dummies" /> This hardwood is a very common material for furniture, and is more resistant to normal wear-and-tear than most softwoods.<ref name="The Best Woods for DIY Furniture-2015">{{Cite news|url=http://renolumber.com/2015/06/the-best-woods-for-diy-furniture/|title=The Best Woods for DIY Furniture|date=2015-06-10|access-date=2018-04-16|language=en-US}}</ref>

==== Mahogany ====
A hardwood, [[mahogany]] has a trademark reddish-brown to deep-red tint and is known as "one of the great furniture woods". However, mahogany is not typically grown in sustainably managed forests, and thus commands a steep price at local lumber yards.<ref name="dummies" />

==== Oak ====
With two major varieties, red and white, and many sub-types,  [[oak]] is known to be easy to work with and strong. However, furniture makers often opt for white oak over red oak for its attractive figure and moisture-resistance.<ref name="dummies" /> Depending on the kind needed, oak can be found at a local home center or a lumberyard.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.woodworkinganswers.com/ |title=Woodworking Basics |access-date=23 March 2015 |archive-date=11 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160111095915/http://woodworkinganswers.com/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="dummies" /><ref name="The Best Woods for DIY Furniture-2015" />

==== Maple ====
With strength, sturdiness, and durability, [[maple]] is a common material for bedroom furniture and even china cabinets. Maple is moisture-resistant and frequently displays chatoyance in the wood grain, an aesthetically pleasing differentiator from other hardwoods. While most commonly a lighter color, maple can also take stains and paint well.<ref name="The Best Woods for DIY Furniture-2015" />

=== Factors in choosing materials ===
There are many factors to consider when deciding what type of wood to use for a project. One of the most important aspects is the workability of the wood: how it responds when worked by hand or with tools, the quality of the grain, and its response to adhesives and finishes.<ref name="Stephen.-2012" /> When the workability of wood is high, it offers a lower resistance when cutting and has a diminished blunting effect on tools.<ref name="Stephen.-2012" /> Highly workable wood is easier to manipulate into desired forms. If the wood grain is straight and even, it will be easier to create strong glue joints. Additionally, it will help protect the wood from splitting when nailed or screwed.<ref name="Stephen.-2012" /> Coarse grains may require a lengthy process of filing and rubbing down the grain to produce a smooth result.<ref name="Stephen.-2012" />

Another important factor is the wood's durability, especially with respect to moisture. If the finished project will be exposed to moisture (e.g., outdoor projects) or to high humidity or condensation (e.g., in kitchens or bathrooms), the wood needs to be especially durable to prevent rot. Because of their oily properties, many tropical hardwoods, such as teak and mahogany, are popular for these applications.<ref name="Stephen.-2012" />

=== Woods used for carving ===
While many woods can be used for carving, there are some clear favorites, including aspen, basswood, butternut, black walnut, and oak.<ref name="www.hardwooddistributors.org-2015">{{Cite web|url=http://www.hardwooddistributors.org/blog/postings/top-hardwoods-for-carving/|title=Top Hardwoods for Carving {{!}} Hardwood Distributors|website=www.hardwooddistributors.org|language=en-US|access-date=2018-04-16|date=2015-05-19|archive-date=2018-04-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180401094403/http://www.hardwooddistributors.org/blog/postings/top-hardwoods-for-carving/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Because it has almost no grain and is notably soft, Basswood is particularly popular with beginner carvers. It is used in many lower-cost instruments, such as guitars and electric basses.<ref name="www.hardwooddistributors.org-2015" /> Aspen is similarly soft, although slightly harder, and readily available and inexpensive.<ref name="www.hardwooddistributors.org-2015" /> Butternut has a deeper hue than basswood and aspen and has a nice grain that is easy to carve, and thus friendly for beginners. It is also suitable for furniture.<ref name="www.hardwooddistributors.org-2015" /> While more expensive than basswood, aspen, and butternut, black walnut is a popular choice for its rich color and grain.<ref name="www.hardwooddistributors.org-2015" /> Lastly, oak is a strong, sturdy, and versatile wood for carving with a defined grain. It is also a popular wood for furniture making.<ref name="www.hardwooddistributors.org-2015" />

== Tools ==
{{See also|Tool vest|List of tools and equipment}}
Each area of woodworking requires a different set of tools. Power tools and hand tools are both used for woodworking. Many modern woodworkers choose to use power tools in their trade for added ease and time savings. However, many woodworkers still choose to use only hand tools for reasons such as [[tradition]], [[experience]], and the added character of the work. In contrast, others do so simply for their own enjoyment.

{{div col|colwidth=600px}}

=== Hand tools ===
[[Hand tool]]s are classified as tools that receive power only from the hands that are holding them. Edged hand woodworking tools need to be [[Sharpening|sharpened]], which is done using the [[sharpening jig]] and [[sharpening stone]]. A more novel method involves using [[sandpaper]].<ref name="Fine Woodworking 2000">{{Cite magazine |last=Kolle |first=Jefferson |date=January 2000 |title=Getting an Edge with Waterstones, Oilstones, and Sandpaper |url=http://www.finewoodworking.com:80/pages/w00003.asp |magazine=[[Fine Woodworking]] |publisher=[[Taunton Press]] |issue=140 |pages=56–61 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100621070933/http://www.finewoodworking.com/pages/w00003.asp |archive-date=June 21, 2010 |access-date=2017-10-31 }}</ref> The more common modern hand tools are:

{| class="wikitable" width=600px
|+Hand tools
|- style="vertical-align: top;"
!Clamps 
| style="width:180px;" |[[File:Woodworking clamps.jpg|alt=Woodworking clamps|frameless|upright|center]]<small>Woodworking clamps. The top left two are f-style clamps. On the right is a quick-grip Irwin clamp. In the bottom middle is a spring clamp.</small>
| [[Clamp (tool)|Clamp]]s are used to hold a [[workpiece]] while being worked. Clamps vary in all shapes and sizes, from small C-clamps to very large bar or strap clamps.<ref name="top 40 woodworking tools-2013">{{Cite web |date=2013-04-13 |title=top 40 woodworking tools |url=https://www.wagnermeters.com/moisture-meters/wood-info/top-40-woodworking-tools/4/}}</ref> A [[vise]] is a form of clamp, temporarily or permanently mounted as required. A [[woodworking vise]] is a vise specialized to the needs of a woodworker; numerous types have evolved.
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Chisels
|[[File:Wood chisels.jpg|alt=Wood chisels|frameless|upright|center]]<small>Five woodworking wood chisels</small>
|[[Chisel]]s are tools with a long blade, a cutting edge, and a handle. Used for cutting and shaping wood or other materials.<ref name="top 40 woodworking tools-2013" />
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Claw hammer
|[[File:Claw-hammer.jpg|alt=Claw-hammer|frameless|upright|center]]<small>A common hammer, the claw hammer, used in woodworking and other activities</small>
|The [[claw hammer]], which can hammer, pry, and pull nails, is the most common hammer used in woodworking.<ref name="top 40 woodworking tools-2013" />
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Hand plane
|[[File:Hand planes.jpg|alt=Hand planes|frameless|upright|center]]<small>Two woodworking hand planes</small>
|A [[hand plane]] is used to surface aspects of a workpiece.
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Square
|[[File:Try Square.jpg|alt=try square|frameless|upright|center]]<small>A try square. A common style of square in woodworking is usually used for 90-degree angles</small>
|The [[Square (tool)|square]] is used to mark angles on any workpiece. An [[Combination square|adjustable square]] also includes a ruler. A [[speed square]] can mark 90 and 45-degree fixed angles and any angle between 0 and 90 degrees using its long axis.<ref name="top 40 woodworking tools-2013" />
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Tape measure
|[[File:Measuring-tape.jpg|alt=Tape measure|frameless|upright|center]]<small>Tape measure</small>
|A [[tape measure]] is a retractable or flexible ruler that has measurement increments as small as 1/32" or 1 millimeter.
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Handsaw
|[[File:Pily rozne 01.jpg|alt=Handsaws|frameless|upright|center]]<small>Three old handsaws</small>
|A [[Hand saw|handsaw]], according to Cambridge University, "a saw that is operated by hand rather than using electricity or a motor."<ref>{{Cite web |title=handsaw |url=https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/handsaw |website=Cambridge Dictionary}}</ref>
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Files & Rasps
|[[File:Hand files and rasps.jpg|alt=Hand files and rasps|frameless|upright|center]]<small>Top two are files. The bottom (orange-handled) tool is a rasp.</small>
|Both files and rasps are used to grind down wood material, either to make the surface flat, rounded, concave, or many other shapes. Rasps make deeper cuts, while files make smaller, less harsh cuts in wood. The difference between the two is mainly their tooth size.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kelsey |first=John |date=2004-10-28 |title=Files & Rasps |url=https://www.thisoldhouse.com/woodworking/21015475/files-rasps |access-date=2023-05-02 |website=This Old House |language=en-US}}</ref>
|}
{{break|2}}

=== Power tools ===
[[Power tools]] are tools powered by an external energy source, such as a battery, motor, or a power cable connected to a wall outlet. The more common power tools are:<ref name="top 40 woodworking tools-2013" />
{| class="wikitable" width=600px
|+Power tools
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Drill
| style="width:180px;" |[[File:Cordless electric (screw) drill.jpg|alt=Power drill|frameless|upright|center]]<small>Cordless electric power drill.</small>
|The [[drill]] is a tool used to drill a hole or to insert a screw into a workpiece.<ref name="top 40 woodworking tools-2013" />
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Palm sander
|[[File:Palm sanders.jpg|alt=Palm sanders|frameless|upright|center]]<small>Two palm sanders. The left sander is an orbital palm sander. The sander on the right is a mouse sander, which uses vibration instead of orbital motions.</small>
|A [[palm sander]] is a small powered sander that uses either a vibration or orbital motion to move a piece of sandpaper upon the workpiece, making very fine modifications in smoothing your product.<ref name="top 40 woodworking tools-2013" />
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Compound miter saw
|[[File:Mitre saw white.jpg|alt=Electric compound miter saw|frameless|upright|center]]<small>Electric compound miter saw.</small>
|A [[compound miter saw]], also known as a chop saw, is a stationary saw used for making precise cuts across the grain path of a board. These cuts can be made at any angle the particular saw is capable of.<ref name="top 40 woodworking tools-2013" />
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Table saw
|[[File:Tablesaw 4' sliding table saw.jpg|alt=Tablesaw|frameless|upright|center]]<small>Electric plug-in tablesaw for woodworking.</small>
|A [[table saw]] is intended to make long, precise cuts along the grain pattern of the board, known as rip cuts. Most table saws offer the option of a beveled rip cut.<ref name="top 40 woodworking tools-2013" />
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Thickness planer
|
|A [[thickness planer]] is used to smooth the surface of a board and make it the exact thickness across the entire board.<ref name="top 40 woodworking tools-2013" />
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Jointer
|[[File:Powermatic jointer (2).jpg|alt=Powermatic jointer|frameless|upright|center]]<small>Powermatic jointer for woodworking.</small>
|A [[jointer]] is used to produce a flat surface along a board's length and to create a square (or 90°) edge between two adjoining surfaces.<ref name="top 40 woodworking tools-2013" />
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Band saw
|[[File:Band saw.jpg|alt=Band saw|frameless|upright|center]]<small>Plug-in band saw.</small>
|A [[band saw]]<ref name="top 40 woodworking tools-2013" /> is used to make both irregularly shaped cuts and cuts through material thicker than a table saw can manage. It is much more robust<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-05-10 |title=Difference Between Band Saw Vs Scroll Saw |url=https://woodworkingarena.com/band-saw-vs-scroll-saw/ |access-date=2020-07-05 |website=Woodworking Arena |language=en-US}}</ref> than the [[jigsaw (tool)|jigsaw]] or more delicate [[scroll saw]], also regularly used in woodworking.
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Drill press
|[[File:Gumtree drill press (8179584289).jpg|alt=Drill press|frameless|upright|center]]<small>Older drill press. Floor-mounted drill press.</small>
|A [[drill press]] is an important tool used in woodworking. It is similar to a hand drill but is a table- or floor-mounted machine that uses a shaft with a spring-loaded handle to lower the drill bit into the wood or other material. Many woodworkers use a hand drill, but a drill press is even more accurate and powerful.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2010-10-28 |title=A Drill Press Will Make You a Better Woodworker |url=https://www.finewoodworking.com/project-guides/shop-machines/a-drill-press-will-make-you-a-better-woodworker |access-date=2023-05-01 |website=FineWoodworking |language=en-US}}</ref>
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
!Drum sander
|
|A drum [[sander]] is a machine that uses a wide rotating sandpaper drum to sand down a piece of wood as it rolls through the tool. Similar to a planer in how it operates, but instead of [[blade]]s, a drum sander uses [[sandpaper]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Planer vs Drum Sander - Which Should You Choose? - Rockler |url=https://www.rockler.com/learn/planer-versus-drum-sander |access-date=2023-05-02 |website=Rockler Woodworking and Hardware |language=en}}</ref>
|}
{{div col end}}

==Notable woodworkers==
{{See also|List of furniture designers}}
{{Div col|colwidth=15em}}
* [[Alvar Aalto]]
* [[Norm Abram]]
* [[Bae Se-hwa]]
* [[John Boson]]
* [[Jimmy Carter]]
* [[Jesus]]
* [[George Collings]]
* [[Frank E. Cummings III]]
* [[Henning Engelsen]]
* [[Wharton Esherick]]
* [[Tage Frid]]
* [[Alexander Grabovetskiy]]
* [[Greta Hopkinson]]
* [[James Krenov]]
* [[Mark Lindquist]]
* [[Sal Maccarone]]
* [[Thomas J. MacDonald]]
* [[John Makepeace]]
* [[Sam Maloof]]
* [[David J. Marks]]
* [[Judy Kensley McKie]]
* [[George Nakashima]]
* [[Jere Osgood]]
* [[Alan Peters]]
* [[Matthias Pliessnig]]
* [[André Jacob Roubo]]
* [[Evert Sodergren]]
* [[Rosanne Somerson]]
* [[Henry O. Studley]]
* [[Roy Underhill]]
* [[Wendy Maruyama]]
* [[Charles H. Hayward]]
* [[Nick Offerman]]{{colend}}

==See also==
{{Portal|Manufacturing}}
<!--NOTE: This list needs to be reduced by incorporating the items into the body of the article. You can Help! -->
{{Div col|colwidth=20em}}
* [[Boat building]]
* [[Cabinet making]]
* [[Carpentry]]
* [[Ébéniste]]
* [[Fire hardening]]
* [[Glossary of woodworking terms]]
* [[Green building and wood]]
* [[Green woodworking]]
* [[History of construction]]
* [[History of wood carving]]
* [[Intarsia]]
* [[Japanese carpentry]]
* [[Lath art]]
* [[Ligna]]
* [[Luthier]]
* [[Millwork (building material)|Millwork]]
* [[Marionette]]
* [[Marquetry]]
* [[Pallet crafts]]
* [[Reclaimed lumber]]
* [[Saw pit]]
* [[Segmented turning]]
* [[Sloyd]], a system of handicraft-based education
* [[Stave church]]
* [[Studio furniture]]
* [[Tack cloth]]
* [[Timber framing]]
* [[Turning]]
* [[Wood carving]]
* [[Wood glue]]
* [[Wood Inlay]]
* [[Woodshop (workspace)|Woodshop]]
* [[Woodturning]]
* [[Woodworking safety]]
* [[Workbench (woodworking)|Woodworking workbench]]
* [[Yakisugi]]
{{colend}}

==References==

{{Reflist}}

==References==
*{{Cite book |last=Feirer |first=John L. |title=Cabinetmaking and Millwork |publisher=Glencoe Publishing |year=1988 |isbn=0-02-675950-0 |location=Mission Hills California}}
*{{Cite book |last=Frid |first=Tage |title=Tage Frid Teaches Woodworking |publisher=Taunton Press |year=1979 |isbn=0-918804-03-5 |location=Newton, Connecticut |author-link=Tage Frid}}
*{{Cite book |last=Joyce |first=Edward |title=Encyclopedia of Furniture Making |publisher=Sterling Publishing Co. |others=revised and expanded by Alan Peters |year=1987 |isbn=0-8069-6440-5 |location=New York}}
*{{Cite book |last=Roubo |first=André Jacob |title=The Art of the Joiner |date=1769–1784 |publisher=[[French Academy of Sciences]] |location=Paris |author-link=André Jacob Roubo}}

===Further reading===
* Naylor, Andrew. [https://ncsu.edu/bioresources/BioRes_08/BioRes_08_2_3122_Naylor_Hackney_Review_Wood_Machining_Focus_Sawing_3847.pdf ''A review of wood machining literature with a special focus on sawing'']. BioRes, April 2013
* [https://mywoodgear.com/history-of-woodworking/ History of Woodworking & Ancient Carpentry]

== External links ==
{{Commons category}}
{{Wikiversity|Woodworking}}
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9wTLBGXZ04/ Video] about the [[Zafimaniry]] peoples in Madagascar.
* [https://av.tib.eu/search?q=woodworking&loc=de&f=publisher%3Bhttp://av.tib.eu/resource/IWF_%2528G%25C3%25B6ttingen%2529 Videos about woodworking] published by Institut für den Wissenschaftlichen Film. Available in the AV-Portal of the [[German National Library of Science and Technology]].
* [https://www.woodworkmag.com/ Woodwork Magazine]

{{Woodworking |expanded}}<!--eponymous template-->
{{Forestry}}

{{Authority control}}

<!--alphabetical:-->

<!----Categories---->
[[Category:Woodworking| ]]<!--eponymous category-->
[[Category:Crafts]]
[[Category:Industrial processes]]
[[Category:Scoutcraft]]
[[Category:Wood-related terminology]]