Replies

1. 
   jimbell | Oct 02, 2010 08:10pm | #1

   I've only used this beech once, but I read a lot about it before i did. In essence, it is an underappreciated wood. It moves a lot in drying, which raises red flags. But that does not mean it moves in use.

   I finished it light to keep it true to character. I used Watco Natural on one piece and General Finishes Arm R Seal on the other, and I was happy with both looks.

2. 
   ring | Oct 03, 2010 01:53am | #2

   Steamed European beech is used extensively throughout European industry, because it's quite uniform in texture and appearance, which lends itself well to industrial production- especially chair parts and anything that needs pattern routing and shaping.  The same uniformity of figure makes it a bit boring for some custom uses, though.  The one major drawback of the beech is that it reacts strongly to any humidity changes.  You need to adhere to the strictest construction techniques to allow for movement, because this wood will not forgive any minor "trespasses" that many other species would allow.  It takes most finishes well, but in my opinion looks best with a semi-gloss lacquer.

   BTW, it's the steaming that gives it the reddish tone.  The wood starts out quite white and gets reddish in proportion to the steam treatment.

1. 
   RVH | Oct 30, 2010 08:27am | #3

   Beech

   David and others - I built a small table (16 X 20) for a Habitat homeowner and enjoyed working with beech. While the selection at my alternate wood yard was not as good as I had hoped (will buy from my regular  place next time!) the table turned out very nice. The wood works well (very similar to maple. Staining was easy and well taken with only one very small splotch. The wood does move with moisture! My wipe on varnish finish looks good.

   I will use beech again.

   Randy