Replies

1. 
   bigfootnampa | Jan 06, 2008 09:44am | #1

   You can't ignore wood movement in any construction but cedar is more forgiving than most woods.  Especially if it is used inside where high exposure to moisture is not expected.  The combination of smaller than normal movement and the softness (flexibility) of cedar allows for a little more leeway than most hardwoods will give you.

   Most finishes will function well on cedar as long as it is dry (much of it comes green and needs to be dried before you make furniture with it).  It's softness means that damage from wear is likely on some surfaces and so it works well to use distressed finishes to begin with so that repairs are easy.

1. 
   Bugsy | Jan 06, 2008 03:44pm | #2

   thanks for the input, I do plan on distressing the pieces. I use a wire wheel to expose the harder grain along with edge wearing and dents. Van dykes restoration hardware has some nice hinges, knobs latches and clavos that make the pieces. thanks again

2. 
   mrbird90 | Jan 06, 2008 05:31pm | #3

   I don't know about Indiania but here in Ohio western red cedar is great to work with but you must be aware that is is kiln dried to 10-15% or higher as it is intended for out door or house construction. You will have to let it dry for several weeks in your shop before using for interior furniture. I use it and cypress for all out door furniture jobs. I have not used it for an inside job.