Before the first cut is made or a single nail is driven, choosing the right kind of wood is one of the most important steps in any woodworking project. The wood you select will shape everything from durability to appearance — so it’s worth taking the time to choose wisely.
Here are a few helpful tips to guide you when picking lumber at the store:
Understanding Wood Types
Wood comes in two main categories: hardwoods and softwoods, and the difference lies not in their strength, but in the trees they come from.
Hardwoods come from angiosperms — flowering trees with broad leaves (like oak, maple, or cherry).
Softwoods come from gymnosperms — mostly conifers like pine, spruce, or fir. These trees produce seeds but no flowers.
Despite the name, some softwoods (like fir and pine) can be quite strong — often stronger than certain hardwoods — and are commonly used for framing and flooring.
Grading the Lumber
Wood is also graded based on quality:
Select-grade wood is top-tier: free of blemishes, knots, or defects. It’s the best choice when the finished look matters — like for furniture or cabinetry.
Common-grade lumber has more visible imperfections and is usually used in structural or utility projects where appearance isn’t the top concern.
Choosing by Purpose
Every type of wood has unique characteristics, so knowing what you need it for can make your choice easier:
Pine is great for indoor furniture and cabinetry. It’s easy to work with, stains well, and offers good durability.
Poplar has a smooth, uniform surface and takes paint beautifully — ideal for pieces where you want a clean, painted finish.
Redwood is naturally resistant to decay, making it perfect for outdoor furniture, decks, or fences.
Pressure-treated wood is chemically treated to resist moisture and insects — great for exterior walls, garden beds, or exposed structures.
Oak, cherry, and maple have attractive grain patterns and are popular for detailed work and fine furniture.
Rosewood has a rich reddish tone and smooth finish, often used in high-end musical instruments and decorative pieces.
With a good understanding of wood types, grades, and how they behave, you’ll be in a much better position to choose the perfect piece for your project — whether it’s a rustic farm table, a backyard bench, or a finely crafted keepsake box.
Happy building!
—Walt Everstead
Everstead Woodshop
