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Read More Articles by Gene Wengert

Gene Wengert, “The Wood Doctor” has been training people in efficient use of wood for 45 years. He is extension specialist emeritus at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Wood Dr

All about gluing

Part 1: Common types of adhesives used for woodworking

By Gene Wengert, February 1, 2022 | 9:38 am CST

Wood Dr

Questions about PUR and epoxy for woodworking

Polyurethane (PUR) adhesives are a class of adhesives. The chemistry and final properties vary from one product to another.

By Gene Wengert, November 30, 2021 | 5:03 pm CST

Wood Explorer

American elm: Bold looking, tough acting

I am surprised that more furniture and cabinetry makers don’t use elm; it certainly has a nice appearance.

By Gene Wengert, September 23, 2021 | 2:44 pm CDT

Wood Dr

Why moisture loss is more serious than gain, plus FAQs

Concerns about moisture changes in white oak mouldings and beetle damage in soft maple.

By Gene Wengert, September 23, 2021 | 2:05 pm CDT

Wood Explorer

Hard maple: Highly versatile wood

This highly versatile wood is used for many applications, even syrup.

By Gene Wengert, September 21, 2021 | 1:22 pm CDT

Wood Dr

Dealing with tearout in hard maple and other FAQs

Rules for sidebend wood and using urban lumber.

By Gene Wengert, September 21, 2021 | 12:45 pm CDT

Solid Wood Machining

Planing defects and how to prevent them

Planing defects such as snipe, ripples and raised, chipped or fuzzy grain can ruin a project. Here are simple solutions.

By Gene Wengert, April 14, 2021 | 9:59 am CDT

Wood Dr

Q. We just started processing some cherry lumber that was planed S2S by the supplier. We are seeing a small number of checks developing, especially in the flat sawn pieces. We are really perplexed as to what is causing this.

By Gene Wengert, March 30, 2021 | 9:19 am CDT

Wood Dr

Next step after kiln drying and stress relief

Q. After we finish kiln drying and go through stress relief (conditioning), what should we do next?

By Gene Wengert, March 30, 2021 | 9:00 am CDT

Wood Dr

Machining to the end

Q. We have a machining problem. As we machine a piece, it is good until the last half inch. At this end, we all too often get a piece that chips out all the way to the end. Where should we look?

By Gene Wengert, March 30, 2021 | 8:47 am CDT