Wood is a porous material that naturally contains moisture. The amount of moisture present is referred to as its moisture content (MC). Measuring MC is crucial for various applications, including woodworking, construction, and furniture making.
When turning wood, an optimal MC is essential to prevent cracking, deformation, and other issues. The ideal MC depends on the type of wood and intended use.
* Hardwoods: 7-9% MC for stability and resistance to cracking
* Softwoods: 8-12% MC for easier turning and reduced risk of warping
It is recommended to use moisture meters to accurately determine the MC of wood before turning.