I'm a newbie trying to figure out how to identify different types of wood boards. I see there's a mega thread on wood identification, but I'm more interested in how to develop the skill to recognize what the experienced folks are talking about. I've inherited some boards and want to get to the point where I can tell what they are by appearance, grain, and feel. Is there a guide or any resources that explain how to learn this? Or is it just about gathering all the tribal knowledge?
3 Answers
Honestly, the best way to learn wood identification is just to dive in and spend time around different types of wood. Many people pick it up through experience, either on the job or as a hobby. You might find some trivia websites helpful, but it mainly comes down to just being around wood and getting a feel for it over time.
You can really speed up the learning process by visiting local lumber stores where knowledgeable staff can guide you. Spend time looking at, touching, and even smelling the wood to get a better grasp of its characteristics. Just remember, there aren’t any real shortcuts; it takes years of practice to get good at it.
A lot of it is about experience! Focus more on observing the color and grain instead of trying to identify the wood down to the species. It’s normal to get confused sometimes; even seasoned pros have their off days. So, walk through your local lumberyard, take a good look at the boards, and start making things — that's where the real learning happens!