Choosing the right wood is one of the most important decisions when crafting furniture or cabinetry. Whether you’re building a custom dining table, a set of kitchen cabinets, or a bespoke entertainment unit, the type of timber you use will impact everything — from appearance and durability to cost and performance.
At JS Timber, we’ve supplied timber to cabinetmakers, joiners, interior designers, and DIY enthusiasts for years. Here’s our expert guide to help you select the right wood for furniture and cabinetry projects.
1. Know Your Wood Types: Hardwood vs Softwood
The first thing to understand is the difference between hardwood and softwood:
Hardwoods
- Sourced from slow-growing, deciduous trees
- Denser, more durable, and usually more expensive
- Great for furniture, cabinetry, and high-traffic areas
Examples: Oak, Blackbutt, Spotted Gum, Merbau, American Walnut, Tasmanian Oak
Softwoods
- Sourced from fast-growing conifers
- Lighter and easier to work with
- Ideal for framing, some furniture, and budget-friendly cabinetry
Examples: Pine, Cedar, Cypress
Expert Tip: For cabinetry and interior furniture, hardwoods are typically preferred due to their strength and aesthetic richness.
2. Consider Grain, Colour & Character
Timber is as much about visual appeal as it is about function. The wood’s grain pattern, colour, and character will define the look of your finished piece.
- Straight grain = sleek, modern look (e.g. Blackwood, Oak)
- Wavy or curly grain = more decorative (e.g. Maple, Marri)
- Knots & imperfections = rustic charm (e.g. reclaimed timber, Cypress)
Choosing the right tone:
- Light woods (like Tasmanian Oak or Ash) create an airy, modern look
- Dark woods (like Walnut or Jarrah) evoke warmth and luxury
- Mid-tones (like Spotted Gum) offer a natural, balanced aesthetic
3. Durability & Usage: Match the Wood to the Job
Not all wood needs to be rock-hard — but for pieces like tables, doors, or kitchen cabinetry, you want timber that resists wear and moisture.
| Furniture Type | Recommended Wood |
|---|---|
| Dining Table | Spotted Gum, Oak, Merbau |
| Kitchen Cabinets | Birch Plywood (core) + Veneered Oak |
| Bathroom Vanity | Teak, Blackbutt (sealed) |
| Shelving / Bookcase | Pine (budget) or Tasmanian Oak |
| Decorative Panels | American Walnut, Veneered Ply |
Expert Tip: For kitchens and bathrooms, always seal the wood with a protective finish to guard against moisture.
4. Solid Timber vs Veneer vs Plywood
Depending on budget and design, your project may involve solid wood, veneer, or plywood.
Solid Timber:
- Full planks of wood
- Strong, can be sanded and refinished
- More expensive
Veneered Panels:
- Thin layer of real wood over a stable core (usually MDF or ply)
- More affordable, still looks like real timber
- Great for cabinet doors, feature walls
Plywood:
- Engineered wood made from layers of veneer
- Strong, stable, and cost-effective
- Used for internal cabinet carcasses
Expert Tip: Combine veneer for surface aesthetics and ply or solid timber for structure. This gives you beauty and strength without blowing your budget.
5. Workability: Ease of Cutting, Gluing & Finishing
Some hardwoods look amazing but can be challenging to work with, especially for intricate joinery.
- Easy to work: Tasmanian Oak, Pine, Ash
- Moderate: Blackbutt, Spotted Gum
- Harder to work: Jarrah, Ironbark, dense tropical hardwoods
If you’re DIYing or using hand tools, stick with timber that machines and finishes easily.
6. Sustainability & Sourcing
Always consider the environmental impact of your timber. At JS Timber, we’re committed to sustainable forestry and offer:
- FSC®-certified timbers
- Reclaimed and recycled wood
- Locally sourced Australian species
Ask for the origin of the wood and whether it’s from a responsibly managed forest.
7. Budget & Availability
Some premium timbers can be costly and hard to source in large quantities. Know your budget and consider alternatives that offer a similar look or performance.
| Premium Timber | Budget-Friendly Alternative |
|---|---|
| American Walnut | Stained Birch Veneer or Blackbutt |
| Oak | Tasmanian Oak or Ash |
| Spotted Gum | Mixed Australian Hardwoods |
Final Thoughts: Choose with Care
Selecting timber for furniture or cabinetry is about balancing beauty, durability, and practicality. Whether you’re going for a modern, minimalist vibe or a warm, rustic design, the right timber will elevate your project and ensure it stands the test of time.
At JS Timber, our experienced team is here to help. We’ll guide you through the selection process, offer custom cutting and finishing, and make sure you get the best timber for your vision.
