Workshop reference
Woodworking terms, explained.
Look up a measurement, joint, finish or pricing term. Follow the calculator link when you are ready to use it.
Board Foot
A unit of volume for lumber (1 board foot = 144 cubic inches).
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The width of material removed by a saw blade during cutting.
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Acceptable variation in a dimension or fit.
Yield
Usable material obtained from a raw board.
Moisture Content
The percentage of water in wood, affecting expansion and contraction.
Wood Movement
Changes in wood dimensions due to humidity shifts.
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Dado
A groove cut into a board to accept another piece for joining.
Rabbet
A recessed edge cut for right-angle joints.
Mortise and Tenon
A classic joint fitting a tenon into a mortise for strength.
Dovetail
An interlocking joint with wedge-shaped tails and pins.
Tongue and Groove
Boards joined by inserting a tongue into a groove, ideal for panels.
Biscuit Joinery
Uses small oval biscuits to align and strengthen joints.
Pocket Hole
An angled screw hole for hidden fastenings.
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A small pre-drilled hole to prevent wood splitting.
Use calculatorFence Adjustment
Fine-tuning a saw fence for accurate cuts.
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Finish Coverage
The surface area covered by a finish per unit volume.
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Applied before finishing to ensure even absorption.
Polyurethane
A durable protective finish resistant to moisture and wear.
Shellac
A natural resin-based finish with a warm tone and quick dry time.
Satin Finish
A finish with a soft, low-sheen appearance.
Grain Raising
When water or finish lifts fibers, roughening the surface before sanding.
Markup
Percentage added to cost to cover profit and overhead.
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Price reduction, often used for promotions.
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Sales required to cover total costs.
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Cost per item, determined by dividing total cost by quantity.
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Return on Investment; measures profit relative to cost.
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Hardwood
Wood from deciduous trees like oak or maple; dense and durable.
Softwood
Wood from conifers like pine; easier to cut and lighter.
Plywood
Engineered wood made from cross-laminated veneer layers.
MDF
Medium-Density Fiberboard; a dense composite material for smooth finishes.
Epoxy Resin
A strong adhesive or casting compound used in resin art and repairs.
CFM
Cubic Feet per Minute; measures airflow in dust collection systems.
Use calculatorClamp Pressure
Force applied when gluing to ensure tight bonds.
Router
A power tool for hollowing, shaping, and edge detailing.
Chamfer
A beveled edge cut to remove sharp corners.
Countersink
A conical recess for screw heads to sit flush.