Which Woods Are Safest for Children’s Furniture?
Choosing kid-safe wood: non-toxic species, finishes, certifications, VOC tests, maintenance, and answers to wood questions.
Wood Work Science
Helping woodworkers using science and experience
Wood Work Science
Helping woodworkers using science and experience
David Ernst
David is a veteran woodworker. He is now retired and stays in his cabin in Wisconsin which he built himself. David has 25+ years experience working in carpentry and wood shops. He has designed and built many small and large wood projects and knows the science behind wood selection like the back of his hand. He is an expert guide on any questions regarding wood material selection, wood restoration, wood working basics and other types of wood. While his expertise is in woodworking, his knowledge and first hand experience is far from 'woody'.
Oak vs. Maple: Which Hardwood Wins for Furniture and Floors?
Oak vs. Maple: compare hardness, workability, cost, grain, durability, stability for furniture and flooring; finishing and care.
Is That Mahogany Genuine or an Imitation?
Identify genuine vs imitation mahogany; tests, grain, color, density cues; compare substitutes, sourcing, care, and buying tips.
Is Wood Ash a Reliable Pest Control and Garden Amendment?
Wood ash myths debunked: pest-control efficacy, garden soil effects, safety, application tips, limits, and wood-type differences.
What Makes the Best Decking Wood? A Materials Science Guide to Ipe, Teak, Cedar, Redwood, and Pine
Compare Ipe, Teak, Cedar, Redwood, and PT Pine decks: durability, cost, maintenance, workability, looks, and best uses.
Cedar vs. Redwood: Which Wood Truly Lasts Outdoors?
Cedar vs. Redwood: aroma, rot resistance, durability, cost, workability, appearance and maintenance for outdoor projects.
What Wood Sounds Best? A Materials Guide for Instruments and Acoustics
Best wood species for instruments and acoustics; compare density, stiffness, damping; material choices and common wood questions.
What Woods and Finishes Make a Toy Truly Safe for a Child?
Safety protocol for wooden toy species selection, finish cert and choking-hazard design; guidance to makers and parents
Which Oil Truly Protects Outdoor Wood: Tung or Linseed?
Tung Oil vs Linseed Oil for outdoor furniture: compare durability, waterproofing, curing chemistry, application, and maintenance.
What’s the Correct First Aid for Splinters, Treated Wood Cuts, and Chemical Burns?
Step-by-step first-aid protocols for splinters, cuts from treated wood, and solvent exposure in workshop settings.