Wonder what sumac looks like, or chinkapin, slippery elm, or hackberry? A company from Maine, called Wood Smart, can help. They sell sample boxes of 46 North American wood species commonly used to make furniture.

Each unfinished sample measures 1/2 in. thick by 3 in. wide by 6 in. long. As we discovered, that’s enough room to test a finish or two on the back side. Each sample is labeled with the common and botanical names of the wood. Also noted is information on weight (shown as specific gravity) and shrinkage characteristics. In addition, the box includes a table that allows you to determine how much a board will expand and contract due to seasonal changes in relative humidity.

The set sells for $130 and is available from Lie- Nielsen Toolworks. For more information, go to www.lie-nielsen.com.

From Fine Woodworking #202

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

AnchorSeal Log and Lumber End-Grain Sealer

Good for both sealing the end grain of freshly cut logs and boards, this wax prevents end-grain checking and saves material

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Ridgid R4331 Planer

Priced nearly $300 less than the DeWalt 735X, the Ridgid R4331 is an excellent value. Its three-knife cutterhead left wonderfully clean surfaces on plainsawn white oak and white pine. It did not perform nearly as well on curly maple as the 735X.

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DeWalt 735X Planer

At high speed, the planer works fast and leaves a smooth surface. But the slower, finish speed produces an almost glass-smooth surface. Knife changes are easy.

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