Wood Identification & Use

by Terry Porter

Overview

Wood Identification & Use is an indispensable guide to the world’s most valuable natural resource.

More than 200 species of wood are included in this lavishly illustrated book. Each species is described in detail with color photographs and information on its properties, seasoning requirements, uses and safety considerations.

There are sections on decorative figuring, wood defects and potential health hazards. There are also inspirational examples of finished work, a glossary of technical terms and drawings of living trees to help in identification.

Aimed at small-scale users, whether professional or amateur, the book includes woods used in cabinetmaking, joinery, carpentry, turning, carving and a host of more specialist applications.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781784947101
Publisher:	Guild of Master Craftsman
Publication date:	09/02/2025
Pages:	288
Product dimensions:	8.50(w) x 10.90(h) x 0.90(d)

About the Author

Terry Porter's lifelong interest in wood, and working with wood, was instilled in him from an early age by his father. Terry spent many years as a teacher of English as a Foreign Language. During this period he took up woodturning, which furthered his interest in wood and particularly in the many different species suitable for turning. He became a professional turner and furniture maker and was formerly the editor of GMC's best-selling Woodturning magazine. With this background Terry has brought a lifetime's practical experience to his work.

Table of Contents

Introduction
What is wood?
Seasoning and sawing
Figure in wood
Glossary of wood terminology
Toxic woods
Wood Directory
Wood listed by botanical names
Additional woods in brief
About the author
Acknowledgements
Index of common names
Index of botanical names

Editorial Reviews

"This book would be very useful to help you identify any 'mystery' woods you come across. There is plenty of useful information for turners here – you can learn more about your favourite woods and perhaps be tempted to try out some new ones too."—Woodturning

"This book would be very useful to help you identify any ‘mystery’ woods you come across. There is plenty of useful information for turners here – you can learn more about your favourite woods and perhaps be tempted to try out some new ones too.” —Furniture & Cabinetmaking

From the Publisher