Quarter Sawn

Term from Woodworking industry explained for recruiters

Quarter sawn refers to a special way of cutting lumber that creates wood with unique patterns and superior stability. Unlike regular lumber, quarter sawn wood is cut at a specific angle (around 90 degrees to the tree's growth rings), which makes it less likely to warp or twist over time. This method is often used in high-end furniture making, musical instruments, and architectural woodworking. The term might also appear as "quartersawn" or "quarter-cut" in job descriptions. Woodworkers particularly value this type of wood for its distinctive appearance and reliability in projects where wood stability is crucial.

Examples in Resumes

Created custom cabinet doors using Quarter Sawn oak for historical renovation project

Specialized in working with Quarter Sawn and Quartersawn lumber for high-end furniture production

Managed inventory and selection of Quarter-cut hardwoods for custom millwork shop

Typical job title: "Woodworkers"

Also try searching for:

Cabinet Maker Furniture Maker Custom Woodworker Architectural Woodworker Wood Craftsman Fine Woodworker Millwork Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you determine when quarter sawn lumber is necessary for a project, and what factors influence this decision?

Expected Answer: A senior woodworker should explain cost considerations, stability requirements, aesthetic goals, and specific project needs. They should mention how quarter sawn wood reduces warping in large panels and creates distinctive grain patterns desired in high-end work.

Q: How do you manage material costs when working with quarter sawn lumber in large projects?

Expected Answer: Should discuss strategies for efficient material use, considering the higher cost of quarter sawn lumber, including careful project planning, strategic wood selection, and ways to minimize waste while maintaining quality.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key differences between quarter sawn and plain sawn lumber in terms of working properties?

Expected Answer: Should explain how quarter sawn wood is more stable, has different grain patterns, and may require different techniques for working compared to plain sawn lumber. Should mention practical applications of each.

Q: How do you handle quarter sawn wood differently during the construction process?

Expected Answer: Should discuss specific techniques for cutting, joining, and finishing quarter sawn wood, including considerations for grain direction and moisture content.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you identify quarter sawn lumber in a stack of wood?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the distinctive grain pattern (straight grain with flecking) and explain how to visually identify quarter sawn lumber from its end grain pattern.

Q: What basic maintenance does quarter sawn wood require?

Expected Answer: Should understand basic wood care principles including proper storage, moisture control, and finishing requirements for quarter sawn wood.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic wood identification
  • Understanding of wood grain patterns
  • Basic machinery operation
  • Simple joinery techniques

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced material selection
  • Complex joinery methods
  • Project planning
  • Detailed finishing techniques

Senior (5+ years)

  • Expert material optimization
  • Custom design implementation
  • Team leadership
  • Complex project management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to identify different wood grain patterns
  • Lack of knowledge about proper wood storage and handling
  • No experience with high-end materials
  • Poor understanding of moisture content and wood movement