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Face Terminology - Woodworking Terms
In woodworking, the term “face” refers to the surface of a board or a workpiece that is intended to be visible or seen. It is the side of the wood that is typically exposed and finished, and showcases the grain pattern, texture, and overall appearance.
Face Terminology
Learn about face terminology in our helpful blog. To help you along your woodworking journey, here are a few related terms involving the face of a board:
Face Side: The face side is the most visually appealing side of a board or workpiece. It is typically smoother, free of defects, and chosen to be the prominent visible surface.
Face Edge: The face edge is the edge of a board that is parallel to the face side. It is usually squared and smooth to ensure a clean and flush joinery when you connect boards together.
Face Joint: A face joint is the process of joining two boards or workpieces together along their face edges. The result creates a flat and continuous surface. This is often done using techniques like gluing, biscuit joining, or doweling.
Face Grain: The face grain refers to the orientation of the wood fibres on the face side of a board. It represents the growth rings and patterns visible on the surface and contributes to the overall aesthetics of the wood.
Face Veneer: Face veneer is a thin layer of wood that is applied to a substrate. It enhances the appearance of a surface or create decorative patterns and is used in plywood, furniture, and cabinetry.
Face Frame: In cabinetry, a face frame is a structural framework made of solid wood that surrounds the front edges of cabinets. It provides stability, support, and a finished appearance to the cabinets.
In summary, it is important to know the different aspects related to the face of a board in woodworking. Understanding face terminology helps to determine how to prepare, join, and finish the visible surfaces of the project to achieve the desired outcome.
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