World of Wood

The Wonderful World of Wood:

Dutch and English Elm:

• "Ulmus hollandica"
• "Ulmus procera"

Other names used:

• Duch: Cork bark elm.
• English: Red elm.

Sources:

• Europe.

Tree Characteristics:

• A large tree, reaching 150ft in height and as much as 8ft in diameter.
• However, elms are usually cut when they reach around 3ft in diameter.

Characteristics of the wood:

• A coarse textured wood, with distinct growth rings giving attractive figure when plain sawn.
• The heartwood is beige brown in colour, Dutch elm is tougher than English elm, and favourable growing conditions produce wood of more even growth and straighter grain.
• It is also better for steam bending.
• Elm wood is not naturally durable.
• It is sometimes in short supply because of Dutch elm disase.

Workability:

• Can be fairly difficult to work with hand tools, and also with machines, particularly when planing, if the wood has irregular grain, but it can be brought to a smooth finish.
• It glues well.

Average dried weight:

• 35lb/cuft.

Finishing:

• The wood stains and polishes well, and is particularly suited to a wax finish.

Common uses:

• Cabinet furniture.
• Windsor chair seats.
• Turnery.
• Boatbuilding.
• Veneer.