ALDER, RED
Botanical Name: Alnus rubra
Red alder is easy to cut and it takes finishes very well, especially if a wash coat of thinned shellac is applied before staining. This wood can be of significant value in woodworking, despite its relatively modest reputation. Even defective alder should not be pegged for firewood. Defects, such as burls and stains, can produce beautiful veneers.
Other Names: Western alder, Oregon alder.
Source: Pacific Coast of North America. Characteristics: Generally straight grain; fine, even texture; pale yellow to reddish-brown.
Uses: Turning, furniture, carving, plywood and veneers. Workability: Generally good; reduce blade angle when planing to prevent tearout; only slight blunting of cutters; low bending properties.
Finishing: Accepts finishes well.
Weight: 33 Ib./cu. ft.
Price: Inexpensive.
