To the untrained eye, all wood types may appear somewhat similar, apart from slight variations in colour. However, cabinet makers know that not all woods are created equal. Each has its own grain, texture, and density that makes it well-suited for a particular purpose – and it’s up to cabinet makers to discover what that purpose is.

Generally speaking, hardwoods like maple and hickory are great for projects requiring sturdy framing, whereas softer woods like fir and spruce are ideal for pieces like baseboards and wall studs. But even within these two overarching categories are a wide variety of wood types with unique characteristics.

If you’re interested in cabinet making school, read on to learn all about the popular types of wood you’ll encounter in your studies!

Pine: A Popular Wood Type for Construction

This lightweight softwood is an excellent choice for structural projects such as roof trusses and joists because it is unlikely to swell and shrink. Couple that with its amber colouring and knotty characteristics and you’ve got a wood type that adds a rustic effect to cottages, cabins, lodges, and more. If your pine project is exposed to the elements, however, it’s important to treat it beforehand to prevent it from rotting over time.

 

 

Maple: A Durable Wood Cabinet Making School Graduates Will Love

With a smooth, even wood grain and an ability to work well with a variety of finishes, maple is a popular choice for home decor pieces. It is also one of the hardest types of cabinetry wood, making it great for durability as well as design.

Maple cabinets usually come in a creamy white hue, but a cabinet door panel may feature some reddish-brown colouring. You will also find yellow and pink tones in the wood, along with tan coloured mineral streaks that darken with stain.

Oak: A Common Wood You’ll Encounter in Cabinet Making Courses

If you’re interested in cabinet making training, you’ll quickly learn about the power and popularity of oak. This versatile wood has been used in fine furniture for years and offers numerous variations to suit a wide variety of projects.

Red oak – especially selections with complex flame or arched grain patterns – is one of the most popular hardwoods for cabinets. White oak, in contrast, offers straighter grains but tends to be more expensive.

 

 

Spruce: A Sturdy Wood Selection for Cabinet Makers

If you’re looking for the perfect wood type for economy or utility purposes, spruce fits the bill. When it comes to softwoods, spruce is more dense and solid than pine. However, its straight grain exhibits less character than other softwoods, so it’s used more for its strength than its style.

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