Information and recommendation for project

**Graha** · 6th February 2007, 09:49 PM

All,

I am keen to build the small workbench featured in the current issue of Australian Woodsmith. I am not a seasoned woodworker - more a woodhacker (weekend wood warrior) and would like some advise on type of timber to use. In the instructions they refer to "hardwood" - obviously there is a large range of hardwood to choose from (including balsa, which I found out tonight is a hardwood - not the best for a workbench though

. Can anyone offer suggestions as to what types of hardwood would be appropriate for this type of job? I also realise that there are probably very expensive hardwoods out there - I am looking for a species which can be used an abused (being in a workbench).

I have had a hunt around and can't find the info I require. If there is an information source I can be pointed to, then please point away.

Graha.

**dadpad** · 6th February 2007, 10:11 PM

I made mine from recycled hardwood (for the frame) and the solid wood doors off a wardrobe.

Hardwood generally refers to eucalypt. Could be Vic ash from vic or tassie oak from tassie these generic names refer to several different species which all have reletivly the same properties. Spotted gum, any of the blue gum types or even some stringy or peppermint.
Just ask at your timber supplier for Australian Hardwood.

**Mattsplatt** · 7th February 2007, 10:30 AM

Hi Graha,

I too have been eyeing off that project with some interest! I like some of the design ideas.

For me the idea of hardwood is anything but crapiata, chipboard, MDF, plywood etc. The rest is fair game I guess! Something that isn't too dear, warped or going to warp would be the go.

I have used Jarrah the past at a good price. Even check out recycled timber yards, you maybe able to get some interesting timber that has some character 'built in'.

**Graha** · 7th February 2007, 01:12 PM

Originally Posted by Mattsplatt

Hi Graha,

I too have been eyeing off that project with some interest! I like some of the design ideas.

For me the idea of hardwood is anything but crapiata, chipboard, MDF, plywood etc. The rest is fair game I guess! Something that isn't too dear, warped or going to warp would be the go.

I have used Jarrah the past at a good price. Even check out recycled timber yards, you maybe able to get some interesting timber that has some character 'built in'.

Matt,

I am starting to look around at the recycled yards as well - I guess some seasoned "hardwood" (if it comes at the right price) would be great. I am also going to visit some local timberyards to see what there is/what they can recommend.

I will update with stuff I find out.

Graha.

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