david smith

designer maker

malcolm

all images & designs copyright  m.d.smith

2012

General Information- TIMBER SOURCING.

Ash is the main material used. It is strong, reliable with good character to the grain.

Sourcing of the timber is always- English or Northern Hemisphere.

European timber is usually lighter in colour, very strong and because it is fully seasoned very stable. (Not prone to moving.) It is normally FSC or the European equivalent PEFC certified- For every tree cut down more are planted to ensure long term supply. In Europe trees are grown as a sustainable crop.

English timber is generally darker in colour, strong but often not fully seasoned. In some cases movement in the timber will be evident. This movement will not effect the use of the item but the shrinkage gaps designed into each piece may open up slightly. Supply can also be problem. The trees usually come from parks or from the grounds of a country estate . These woodlands are managed, trees cut down replaced, but there is usually no paperwork to back this up.

While it would be good to only use English timber both have their own advantages.

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