What is Baltic birch?
Why we love using it in our Mid-Century Modern designs and why we think you should love it too!
Baltic birch is made in Poland, Finland, Russia and nearby Baltic states, by laminating (layering and glueing) thin pieces of birch together. It is a plywood product and comes in a variety of grades, with the highest quality pieces having superior strength and stability due the grain of each piece of birch running perpendicular to the ones above and below it.
Baltic birch is becoming increasingly popular in the furniture industry due to its numerous benefits and we use it almost exclusively for our pieces at Hossle Woodworks. This type of wood is known for its durability, strength, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for furniture making. Additionally, featuring the edges of the product give a nod back to the designers of the mid-century era, and create a really handsome effect.
Here are some of the benefits of Baltic birch furniture.
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Baltic birch is known for its durability and strength. It is made from multiple thin layers of birch plywood that are laminated (glued) together, making it more durable than solid wood. The reason for this is that while the individual layers may try to move with humidity and temperature changes, the opposing grain directions from layer to layer work for and against one other, keeping movement to a minimum.
This makes the wood resistant to warping and splitting, and therefore an excellent choice for furniture that will last a long time.
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While we use a veneered version of Baltic birch, we keep the edges exposed. It allows for a striped effect to be revealed due to the opposing grain directions of the layers. This look adds a unique detail to our furniture pieces.
Without the veneer, the wood has a pale, uniform color and a fine, even grain that gives it a sleek and modern look. It is also easy to stain or paint, allowing you to customize the color and finish to suit your style.
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Baltic birch furniture can be used in a wide range of applications, from chairs and tables to cabinets and shelves. Its strength and durability make it an ideal choice for heavy-duty furniture, such as workbenches or industrial shelves. It is also lightweight and easy to work with, making it a popular choice for DIY projects as well.
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Baltic birch is a sustainable wood source as it comes from well-managed forests. It is also made from natural materials (obviously) and can be recycled or repurposed at the end of its useful life, making it an eco-friendly choice.
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Baltic birch is affordable compared to other types of hardwood furniture. While it costs more than traditional plywood, it is still an affordable option for those on a budget.
Baltic birch furniture has numerous benefits that make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for durable, attractive, and versatile furniture - not to mention how it plays so well with mid-century modern style. Its natural beauty, strength, and sustainability make it an ideal choice for modern homes and businesses. Whether you're looking for custom-made furniture or simple cabinetry, Baltic birch furniture is a great option that will last for years to come.