Know Your Material: Wood Science with Dr. Seri Robinson

Wood is the material upon which we base our craft, our hobby and, for some, our profession. But what do you really know about this material we love so much?

This workshop focuses on general wood anatomy. We’ll touch on identification, wood safety in food preparation, and include some wood myth busting. Learning to ID wood can be a fun challenge. Basic macro identification and more in-depth micro identification will take participants through very basic wood anatomy and key identification elements like grain structure, latewood arrangement, parenchyma groupings, rays, and so forth. Dr. Robinson will address the myriad of misconceptions and urban legends in woodworking and set the record straight—with science!

Bring a hand lens (10x or greater, often called a loupe) if you have one. The Guild will provide the necessary lab equipment to have some fun with wood science! We can get as deep into the weeds as participants want.

About Seri Robinson

Dr. Seri Robinson is a professor of wood anatomy at Oregon State University, where they study the interaction of wood decay fungi and wood structure for both artistic (spalting) and scientific purposes. Also known as “Dr. Spalting” for their research and practice of coloring wood objects through the use of fungi. They recently authored an article for Fine Woodworking on food safety with wooden objects – think cutting boards – as well as several books.

• Staying Home When Sick: Members are urged to prioritize their health and the health of others by refraining from attending guild events, workshops, or gatherings when experiencing symptoms of a contagious illness, especially those associated with COVID-19.  
• Follow CDC guidelines: If you have tested positive for COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, you are expected to follow the current CDC guidelines.