The Wood Library
Janka hardness ~380 lbf Density ~430 kg/m³ Stability Moderate Workability Easy
Softwoods
Spruce
Picea
Pale, light and remarkably strong for its weight, spruce is the backbone of construction timber — and, chosen carefully, the soundboard of fine guitars and violins.
The facts
Best uses
- Construction & framing
- Shelving
- Crates & packaging
- Musical instruments
Watch out for
Soft and not naturally weather-resistant — spruce needs protection from moisture and is easily dented, so it is more a structural than a fine-furniture wood.
Engineer's notes
Spruce is all about strength-to-weight. I would not build a dining table from it, but for hidden structure, light frames and anywhere weight matters, it earns its place — and its tight, even grain can be genuinely beautiful.
Want a piece made in this wood?
Talk to the workshop
