Shoutout to the library book that taught me about wood movement math

I was reading an old cabinetmaking book from my local library and it said wood can move up to 1/4 inch across a 12-inch wide board with seasonal humidity changes. I always knew it moved, but seeing the exact number for common widths was a surprise. It made me double-check my allowance on a recent maple panel project. Has anyone else used a specific rule of thumb for calculating expansion gaps?

3 comments

3 Comments

brooke_carter26d ago

My last project expanded more than my last relationship.

jackson.jenny7d ago

Except projects don't surprise you with breakfast or make you laugh until you cry. A finished project just sits there. It doesn't text you goodnight or care if you had a bad day. The mess is kind of the point with people, you know? You can't control it, and that's what makes it matter more, even when it falls apart.

wendyj2426d agoTop Commenter

Damn, you ever notice how projects actually listen when you tell them what to do? Relationships should come with a clear set of instructions and a progress bar. At least when a project gets messy, you can just scrap it and start fresh without all the drama. My last big thing definitely took over my life way more than any person ever has. It's kinda sad but also way more reliable in the end.