Traditionally, wood is known for its excellent compression properties. Obtained from trees, wood
is a natural material that can withstand various natural forces such as strong wind, water, heat,
cold, and more. Moisture content and grain patterns in wood are crucial factors in woodworking
processes. Wood is a preferred material for furniture design and construction due to its versatility.
Mechanical and structural properties of wood can be manipulated to optimize its use in furniture
design effectively. Wood can be efficiently used by employing various joining techniques to
withstand structural forces, which can result in dynamic structural aesthetics in furniture design
and making.
Increase in systematic harvesting of wood in western part of the world allows to use relatively
softer wood in construction and furniture making. Rapid progress has been seen in the
rationalisation and industrialisation of the production and processing methods for wood-based
products. One of the first steps in this evolution was the transition from conventional wood
construction to engineered structures with specific, standardised and quality-managed
connections. This move, combined with introduction of new joining methods such as anchors with
bolts, steel dowels etc., made possible to standardise furniture components for mass production.
Traditional wood joints, once the province of carpenters and joiners and recently ousted by steel
connectors, are increasingly becoming relevant once more, even considering the economics and
long since forgotten methods such as beech dowels, scarfs, tenons, etc., are modern again.
