The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Joinery Materials

When delving into bespoke joinery, material selection is paramount. Your choice influences aesthetics, functionality, cost, and longevity. Let’s explore some popular options:

1. Pine (£)

• Advantages: Readily available, lightweight, and easy to shape.
• Disadvantages: Softer than other woods, making it more susceptible to dents and wear.
• Workability: Highly workable. Pine’s soft nature allows for easy carving and joining.
• Popularity: Widely used due to affordability. Pine is an economical choice suitable for painted projects.

2. Oak (£££)

• Advantages: Durable and boasts a rich, appealing grain. Resistant to moisture, making it ideal for humid conditions.
• Disadvantages: Heavier and can be harder to shape than softer woods.
• Workability: Moderate. Requires sharper tools and more effort. Oak has a coarse texture that can cause tear-out.
• Popularity: High. It’s a favourite for its classic look and durability. Oak offers timeless elegance.

3. MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) (££)

• Advantages: Smooth surface, ideal for painting. Uniform consistency without knots.
• Disadvantages: Less sturdy than solid wood. Can warp in moisture.
• Workability: Very easy. It’s consistent, without grain directionality.
• Popularity: Common for interior furnishings due to versatility. With a reliable blank canvas, MDF suits painted projects.

4. Walnut (££££)

• Advantages: Rich, deep colour with intricate grain patterns. Exceptional strength.
• Disadvantages: Pricier. Requires care to maintain its finish.
• Workability: Moderate to hard. Requires expertise for best results.
• Popularity: Less common due to price, but cherished for luxurious projects. Walnut adds sophisticated elegance.

5. Plywood (££)

• Advantages: Strong due to its cross-layered structure. Resistant to cracking and twisting.
• Disadvantages: Edges can appear untidy if not properly finished.
• Workability: Easy to moderate. Holds screws well, but can splinter.
• Popularity: Widely used for its strength-to-weight ratio. Plywood is a stable, affordable sheet material.

6. Birch (££)

• Advantages: Pale colour with a fine grain. Strong and durable.
• Disadvantages: Can appear bland without staining.
• Workability: Moderate; holds screws and nails well.
• Popularity: Common in interior furnishings for its stability. Birch takes paint and stain nicely.

7. Teak (££££)

• Advantages: Highly resistant to moisture, decay, and pests. Ideal for outdoor use.
• Disadvantages: Expensive and can be challenging to source sustainably.
• Workability: Moderate; oils can make it tricky to glue.
• Popularity: Favoured for high-end outdoor and marine joinery. Teak is treasured for weather-resistance.

8. Cherry (£££)

• Advantages: Deepens in colour over time, offering a rich patina. Fine, straight grain.
• Disadvantages: Sensitive to light, might darken unevenly.
• Workability: Easy to cut, carve, and mould.
• Popularity: Popular for elegant interior pieces. Cherry ages gracefully into a reddish-brown tone.

9. Mahogany (££££)

• Advantages: Durable with a distinctive reddish-brown hue. Resistant to decay.
• Disadvantages: High cost and concerns over sustainability.
• Workability: Relatively easy considering its hardness.
• Popularity: Valued for luxurious projects; used less due to conservation issues. Mahogany imparts refined warmth.

10. Beech (££)

• Advantages: Hard and strong. Pale colour suitable for staining.
• Disadvantages: Not suitable for outdoor use; can warp.
• Workability: Fairly easy, but can blunt tools.
• Popularity: Common for indoor furniture and toys. Beech is very workable but quite heavy.

11. Maple (£££)

• Advantages: Hard and durable with a subtle grain. Good resistance to wear and abrasion.
• Disadvantages: Prone to movement in fluctuating humidity.
• Workability: Moderate; can be tough on tools.
• Popularity: Often used for worktops and flooring. Maple is hardwearing with a light hue.

12. Ash (££)

• Advantages: Strong, elastic properties. Attractive grain pattern.
• Disadvantages: Less rot-resistant; indoor preference.
• Workability: Excellent; bends well.
• Popularity: Favoured for curved designs. Ash gracefully supports flowing forms.

13. Rosewood (££££)

• Advantages: Beautiful dark grain. Aromatic and resistant to decay.
• Disadvantages: Expensive and protected; sustainability concerns.
• Workability: Moderate; high oil content.
• Popularity: Limited use due to conservation efforts. Rosewood adds rich, chocolate hues.

14. Cedar (£££)

• Advantages: Lightweight with a pleasant aroma. Natural repellent to moths.
• Disadvantages: Softer, making it more prone to dents.
• Workability: Easy; can be brittle.
• Popularity: Used for chests, wardrobes, and outdoor projects. Cedar resists insects while offering a subtle fragrance.

15. Bamboo (££)

• Advantages: Rapidly renewable. Strong with a unique appearance.
• Disadvantages: Concerns with glues and resins in composite forms.
• Workability: Easy to cut and join.
• Popularity: Rising due to sustainable attributes. Bamboo is an eco-friendly material that looks striking.

16. Redwood (££)

• Advantages: Aesthetically pleasing with a reddish tint; resistant to decay.
• Disadvantages: Can be soft, making it less ideal for heavy-duty use.
• Workability: Relatively easy; good for carving.
• Popularity: Common for outdoor structures and decking. Redwood offers a rustic, weather-resistant look.

17. Iroko (£££)

• Advantages: Often dubbed “African Teak”, resistant to weather, rot, and pests.
• Disadvantages: Can cause allergic reactions during woodworking.
• Workability: Moderate; has an interlocking grain.
• Popularity: Used for furniture, flooring, and boat building. Iroko is an exotic outdoor option resembling teak.

18. Douglas Fir (££)

• Advantages: Strong and durable with a light rosy color.
• Disadvantages: Less resistant to rot if not treated.
• Workability: Easy; responds well to tools.
• Popularity: Used in structural projects and panelling. Douglas Fir provides reliable strength at a lower cost.

19. Ebony (££££)

• Advantages: Deep black color, heavy and fine-grained.
• Disadvantages: Expensive and often available in small sizes only.
• Workability: Hard; requires sharp tools.
• Popularity: Valued for inlays and musical instruments. Ebony contributes bold, black accents.

20. Reclaimed Wood (£££)

• Advantages: Environmentally friendly; offers a rustic look.
• Disadvantages: Potential for imperfections and hidden metal.
• Workability: Varies depending on the wood’s origin.
• Popularity: Growing in urban and contemporary designs. Reclaimed wood boasts character and sustainability.

21. Larch (££)

• Advantages: Durable softwood with a warm color.
• Disadvantages: Can be resinous; needs sealing for indoor use.
• Workability: Relatively easy.
• Popularity: Used for cladding and exterior projects. Larch offers an attractive, hardy option for outdoor structures.

22. Acrylic (£££)

• Advantages: Transparent, versatile, and modern-looking.
• Disadvantages: Can scratch easily; less “warm” than wood.
• Workability: Requires specialized tools for cutting and joining.
• Popularity: Emerging in modern interiors and furniture. Acrylic provides sleek, contemporary accents.

23. Particle Board (£)

• Advantages: Affordable; lightweight.
• Disadvantages: Not very durable; susceptible to moisture.
• Workability: Easy but can be brittle.
• Popularity: Common in budget furniture. Particle board is cost-effective but less sturdy.

24. Rattan and Wicker (££)

• Advantages: Lightweight, flexible, and offers a natural aesthetic.
• Disadvantages: Can be prone to damage if stretched or overexposed to elements.
• Workability: Requires special skills for weaving and crafting.
• Popularity: Popular for outdoor furniture and baskets. Rattan and wicker suit casual, woven designs.

25. Aluminium and Metal Insets (£££)

• Advantages: Durable, modern, and can be combined with wood for unique designs.
• Disadvantages: Can be cold or industrial in appearance.
• Workability: Requires metalworking skills.
• Popularity: Growing in contemporary and industrial designs. Metals contribute sleek accents.

26. Poplar (££)

• Advantages: Lightweight, stable, and takes paint well.
• Disadvantages: Not particularly durable for exterior use.
• Workability: Easy, making it a favourite for mouldings.
• Popularity: Widely used for interior applications. Poplar is an affordable utility wood.

27. Hickory (£££)

• Advantages: Extremely hard and durable with a distinct grain pattern.
• Disadvantages: Can be challenging to work due to its hardness.
• Workability: Moderate; requires sharp tools.
• Popularity: Favored for rustic furniture and cabinetry. Hickory imparts rugged beauty.

28. Alder (££)

• Advantages: Fine grain that stains well; mimics pricier woods when stained.
• Disadvantages: Soft, less durable compared to other hardwoods.
• Workability: Quite easy; carves and turns well.
• Popularity: Popular for cabinets, especially in North America. Alder is an affordable utility hardwood.

29. Cork (££)

• Advantages: Sustainable, insulative, and has a unique texture.
• Disadvantages: Softer, can get damaged easily.
• Workability: Easy, but requires sealing.
• Popularity: Growing in popularity for flooring and wall applications. Cork offers a natural, warm aesthetic.

30. Zebrawood (££££)

• Advantages: Exotic appearance with striking stripe patterns.
• Disadvantages: Expensive and can be challenging to source.
• Workability: Moderate; tends to splinter.
• Popularity: Valued for decorative pieces and veneers. Zebrawood provides dramatic accents.

31. Hemp and Flax Boards (£££)

• Advantages: Eco-friendly, lightweight, and durable.
• Disadvantages: Limited availability in some markets.
• Workability: Similar to traditional wood boards.
• Popularity: Emerging as a green alternative in joinery. Hemp and flax boast sustainability.

32. Granite and Stone Insets (££££)

• Advantages: Durable, timeless, and adds a luxurious touch.
• Disadvantages: Heavy, requires specialized tools.
• Workability: Challenging; needs expertise in stonework.
• Popularity: Used for countertops and unique joinery inlays. Stone contributes elegance and permanence.

33. Balsa (££)

• Advantages: Extremely lightweight; used where weight is a concern.
• Disadvantages: Not very durable; easily dented.
• Workability: Very easy, but fragile.
• Popularity: Often used for models and lightweight structures. Balsa is useful for delicate, detailed work.

34. Jelutong (£££)

• Advantages: Fine texture; minimal grain. Ideal for intricate carvings.
• Disadvantages: Not very durable for heavy-duty use.
• Workability: Easy; a favourite among sculptors.
• Popularity: Mainly for detailed carvings and models. Jelutong is valued for delicate, detailed sculpting.

35. Red Cedar (£££)

• Advantages: Aromatic, resistant to pests, and has a warm hue.
• Disadvantages: Softer; might get dented or scratched easily.
• Workability: Fairly easy; pleasant to work with.
• Popularity: Often chosen for chests, closets, and outdoor structures. Red cedar offers natural pest resistance.

36. Wenge (££££)

• Advantages: Dark, dense wood with a unique grain pattern. Durable and hard.
• Disadvantages: Expensive and can be splintery.
• Workability: Challenging due to its density but finishes well.
• Popularity: Chosen for luxury interiors and statement pieces. Wenge provides rich, chocolate-brown tones.

37. Sapele (£££)

• Advantages: Reddish-brown with interlocking grain; a sustainable alternative to mahogany.
• Disadvantages: Can be tough on tools due to its interlocking grain.
• Workability: Moderate; requires sharp tools.
• Popularity: Common for veneers, furniture, and cabinetry. Sapele mimics mahogany at a lower cost.

38. Yew (£££)

• Advantages: Rich color variation with a smooth texture. Historical significance in Europe.
• Disadvantages: Limited availability.
• Workability: Fairly easy; great for turning.
• Popularity: Often chosen for specialty projects and crafts. Yew offers old-world European charm.

39. Concrete (£££)

• Advantages: Modern, durable, and can be combined with wood for unique textures.
• Disadvantages: Heavy and may require special installation.
• Workability: Challenging; needs expertise.
• Popularity: Growing in contemporary design as countertops and inlays. Concrete provides an industrial, rugged aesthetic.

40. Willow (££)

• Advantages: Lightweight and flexible. Traditionally used for wickerwork.
• Disadvantages: Not very durable for structural projects.
• Workability: Easy; best for weaving or lightweight structures.
• Popularity: Often used for baskets and decorative items. Willow is ideal for woven accents.

41. Agate and Gemstone Insets (££££)

• Advantages: Adds luxurious detail and unique patterns.
• Disadvantages: Very expensive and requires careful handling.
• Workability: Needs specialized skills for cutting and setting.
• Popularity: Used sparingly for luxury interiors. Gemstones offer one-of-a-kind embellishments.

42. Plyboo (Plywood Bamboo) (£££)

• Advantages: Combines the strength of plywood and sustainability of bamboo.
• Disadvantages: Can be expensive compared to traditional plywood.
• Workability: Similar to plywood; easy to cut and join.
• Popularity: Emerging as an eco-friendly alternative. Plyboo pairs plywood’s reliability with bamboo’s sustainability.

43. Laminates (££)

• Advantages: Available in a plethora of designs and patterns. Durable surface.
• Disadvantages: Can chip or delaminate over time.
• Workability: Easy with the right tools.
• Popularity: Widely used for surfaces prone to wear, like countertops. Laminates provide affordable, customizable surfaces.

44. Tulipwood (£££)

• Advantages: Fine grain with a pale color. Relatively stable.
• Disadvantages: Can be pricey; not as durable as other hardwoods.
• Workability: Easy; popular for carving and turning.
• Popularity: Chosen for detailed work and fine furniture. Tulipwood offers delicate beauty.

45. Leather Insets (£££)

• Advantages: Adds a touch of luxury and comfort. Durable if maintained.
• Disadvantages: Requires regular care; can be expensive.
• Workability: Requires specialized skills for stretching and fixing.
• Popularity: Popular in luxury interiors, especially seating and wall panels. Leather contributes sophistication.

46. Accoya (£££)

• Advantages: Modified wood that is highly durable and stable. Resistant to rot and insects.
• Disadvantages: More expensive than untreated wood.
• Workability: Easy to work with using traditional woodworking tools.
• Popularity: Growing for outdoor furniture and cladding. Accoya offers enhanced longevity.

47. Osage Orange (£££)

• Advantages: Extremely durable and resistant to pests. Distinct bright yellow color.
• Disadvantages: Can be difficult to source; color darkens over time.
• Workability: Moderate due to its hardness.
• Popularity: Traditionally used for fence posts, tool handles, and archery bows. Osage orange is incredibly resilient.

48. Rattan (££)

• Advantages: Lightweight, flexible, and strong. Often used for woven furniture.
• Disadvantages: Susceptible to drying out and cracking if not cared for.
• Workability: Excellent for weaving; can be challenging for joinery.
• Popularity: Popular for outdoor furniture and decorative items. Rattan suits casual, tropical designs.

49. Cocobolo (££££)

• Advantages: A tropical hardwood known for its striking appearance and natural oils.
• Disadvantages: Can be allergic to some; expensive and scarce.
• Workability: Difficult due to high oil content; finishes beautifully.
• Popularity: Favored for fine inlays, musical instruments, and luxury items. Cocobolo contributes exotic elegance.

50. Black Palm (£££)

• Advantages: Hard and heavy with dramatic black streaks. Decay and pest resistant.
• Disadvantages: Limited supply and high cost.
• Workability: Difficult due to density; requires sharp tools.
• Popularity: Used sparingly as accents in high-end furniture and turnings. Black palm offers bold, artistic contrasts.

51. Paper Composite (£££)

• Advantages: Durable and dense; resistant to moisture and heat. Environmentally friendly.
• Disadvantages: Can show wear and tear easily.
• Workability: Similar to hardwood but can dull tools quickly.
• Popularity: Growing in use for countertops and panels. Paper composite offers a sustainable, modern look.

52. PVC (££)

• Advantages: Waterproof, rot-resistant, and easy to clean.
• Disadvantages: Not as aesthetically pleasing as natural materials.
• Workability: Requires special tools but is quite easy to work with.
• Popularity: Common for trim, pipes, and outdoor structures where waterproofing is key. PVC suits high-moisture applications.

53. Torrefied Wood (££££)

• Advantages: Wood that’s heat-treated for durability and stability.
• Disadvantages: More expensive than untreated woods.
• Workability: Similar to the untreated version but slightly more brittle.
• Popularity: Growing in popularity for outdoor applications. Torrefied wood offers enhanced weather resistance.

54. Recycled Glass Insets (£££)

• Advantages: Eco-friendly, unique aesthetics.
• Disadvantages: Requires specific tools and expertise.
• Workability: Challenging; needs specialized knowledge.
• Popularity: Used in countertops and artistic installations. Recycled glass contributes one-of-a-kind accents.