Explore foundational concepts and materials in woodworking and home interiors. Enhance your understanding of woods, finishes, construction techniques, and key terms used by professionals.
Which type of wood is commonly used for premium furniture due to its durability and resistance to the elements?
Explanation: Teak wood is highly valued for its natural oils, strength, and resistance to moisture, making it popular for premium furniture. Pine and birch are softer and less durable, while cedar, though decay-resistant, is softer and typically used for outdoor applications.
What is the main advantage of using plywood over solid wood in furniture or cabinetry?
Explanation: Plywood's cross-laminated construction minimizes warping and adds stability. While it can be cheaper and sometimes lighter, those are not always its defining advantages. Insulation is not a primary purpose for plywood in interiors.
Which material is commonly used as a finishing layer to give furniture a natural wood look without being solid wood throughout?
Explanation: Veneer is a thin slice of real wood applied to surfaces, giving the appearance of solid wood. Paint and acrylic laminate change the texture and look, while PVC film imitates wood only plastically, not naturally.
In interior design, what does the term “modular” most accurately refer to?
Explanation: Modular refers to systems with standardized units that allow flexible assembly and replacement. Fixed shelves and traditional joinery do not offer such adaptability, and handcrafted items are typically unique and non-modular.
Which of the following board materials is least suitable for wet areas like kitchen sink units?
Explanation: MDF is susceptible to swelling and deterioration when exposed to moisture. Marine plywood and BWP plywood are treated for water resistance, while PVC foam board is impervious to water.
What is edge banding primarily used for in furniture making?
Explanation: Edge banding conceals and protects exposed engineered wood edges, preventing moisture entry and damage. It does not join surfaces, add decorative grooves, or significantly improve structural strength.
Which type of surface finish shows fingerprints more easily on furniture?
Explanation: Gloss finishes are smooth and reflective, making fingerprints and smudges more visible. Matte and satin finishes diffuse reflections, hiding marks, while distressed finishes are intentionally imperfect.
False ceilings in home interiors are mainly installed to hide which element?
Explanation: False ceilings offer a neat way to conceal electrical wiring and lighting for a clean look. They cannot hide structural walls, and windows or doors are not typically placed above ceilings.
Which tool is essential for making precise straight cuts in wood sheets during furniture construction?
Explanation: A circular saw is designed for straight, quick cuts in various materials, including wood. Jigsaws are typically for curves, while files and drills are not cutting tools.
Which measurement unit is most commonly used to specify plywood thickness in woodworking?
Explanation: Plywood thickness is most often specified in millimetres (mm) for accuracy. Square metres indicate area, feet measure length, and ‘inches per square foot’ is not a standard unit.