What Does A Filbert Look Like? (5 Woodworker Tips)

Did you know that approximately 75 million cords of firewood are burned annually in the United States alone? That’s a lot of wood! And while many focus on the big oaks and maples, there’s a lesser-known hardwood that deserves our attention: the filbert, also known as hazel.

As a seasoned woodworker and firewood enthusiast, I’ve spent years exploring the nuances of different wood types. Today, I’ll delve into what a filbert looks like, both as a tree and as processed wood, and share five crucial woodworking tips to help you make the most of this often-overlooked resource. I’ll also discuss its properties, how to identify it, and its potential uses.

Identifying a Filbert: More Than Just a Nut

The filbert, or hazel tree, is more than just a producer of delicious nuts. Understanding its characteristics is essential for any woodworker considering using it.

The Filbert Tree: A Visual Guide

Filbert trees are typically multi-stemmed shrubs or small trees, rarely exceeding 30 feet in height. Here’s what to look for:

Leaves: The leaves are alternate, simple, and broadly oval to rounded, with a double-serrated margin. They are typically 2-5 inches long and 1.5-4 inches wide. The texture is slightly rough to the touch.
Bark: The bark is smooth and grayish-brown when young, becoming slightly furrowed with age. It doesn’t have the deep ridges or plates of larger trees like oak or maple.
Nuts: The most distinctive feature is, of course, the nuts. They are enclosed in a leafy husk (the involucre) that is longer than the nut itself. The nuts ripen in the fall.
Catkins: In late winter or early spring, you’ll notice long, dangling catkins (male flowers) that release pollen. These are a key identifier during the dormant season.

Filbert Wood: Appearance and Properties

Once processed, filbert wood has its own unique characteristics.

Color: The heartwood is typically a light brown, sometimes with a reddish tint. The sapwood is paler, usually a creamy white.
Grain: The grain is generally straight, but can be slightly irregular or interlocked. This can make it a bit challenging to work with at times, but it also adds character to the finished product.
Texture: The texture is fine and even, giving it a smooth feel.
Density: Filbert wood is moderately dense, falling somewhere between cherry and birch. On average, it weighs around 35-40 pounds per cubic foot when dry.
Workability: While generally workable, the irregular grain can cause tear-out during planing or routing. Sharp tools and careful technique are essential.
Durability: Filbert is not particularly durable when exposed to the elements, so it’s best suited for indoor projects.
Smell: When cut, filbert wood has a mild, slightly sweet aroma.

Telling the Difference: Filbert vs. Similar Species

Filbert can sometimes be confused with other species, especially when looking at processed lumber. Here’s how to differentiate it:

Birch: Birch often has a more pronounced grain pattern and is typically a bit heavier than filbert. Birch bark is also distinctively papery and peeling.
Cherry: Cherry heartwood is usually a deeper reddish-brown than filbert. Cherry also tends to darken significantly with age and exposure to light.
Alder: Alder is generally softer and less dense than filbert. Alder also has a more uniform color throughout, with less distinction between heartwood and sapwood.

Takeaway: Knowing how to identify filbert trees and their wood is the first step to successfully incorporating it into your woodworking projects. Pay attention to the leaves, bark, nuts, and wood grain to avoid misidentification.

Five Woodworking Tips for Working with Filbert

Now that we know what filbert looks like, let’s dive into some practical tips for working with it. I’ve learned these through trial and error, and I hope they save you some headaches.

Tip #1: Sharp Tools are Your Best Friend

As I mentioned earlier, filbert’s irregular grain can lead to tear-out. This is especially true when planing or routing. The solution? Razor-sharp tools.

Planes: Ensure your plane blades are honed to a very fine edge. A slight back bevel can also help prevent tear-out.
Routers: Use spiral upcut or downcut router bits to minimize splintering. Climb cutting (moving the router against the direction of the bit’s rotation) can also be effective, but be very careful as it can be more aggressive.
Saws: Use a fine-toothed blade with minimal set. A blade designed for hardwoods will give you the cleanest cuts.

I once tried to rush a filbert project using a dull plane. The result was a disaster – the surface was riddled with tear-out, and I ended up spending more time sanding than I would have if I’d just sharpened my tools properly in the first place.

Tip #2: Embrace the Power of Sanding

Even with sharp tools, some sanding is inevitable. Filbert sands beautifully, so don’t be afraid to use it to your advantage.

Start with a Medium Grit: Begin with 120 or 150 grit sandpaper to remove any imperfections.
Progress to Fine Grits: Gradually work your way up to 220 or 320 grit for a silky smooth finish.
Use a Sanding Block: A sanding block will help you maintain a flat, even surface.
Don’t Over-Sand: Be careful not to round over edges or details.

I’ve found that using a random orbit sander with a vacuum attachment is the most efficient way to sand filbert. It removes material quickly and keeps the dust to a minimum.

Tip #3: Pre-Drill Everything

Filbert, like many hardwoods, can be prone to splitting when driving screws or nails. Pre-drilling is essential to prevent this.

Pilot Holes: Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the shank of the screw.
Clearance Holes: If you’re joining two pieces of wood, drill a clearance hole in the top piece that is slightly larger than the screw. This allows the screw to pass through freely and prevents it from binding.
Countersinking: Countersink the holes to allow the screw heads to sit flush with the surface.

I learned this lesson the hard way when building a small filbert box. I tried to drive screws directly into the wood without pre-drilling, and the sides split almost immediately. After that, I always pre-drill.

Tip #4: Choose the Right Finish

The right finish can enhance the natural beauty of filbert wood and protect it from damage.

Oil Finishes: Oil finishes, such as linseed oil or tung oil, penetrate the wood and bring out its natural color and grain. They provide a warm, natural look.
Varnish: Varnish provides a durable, protective coating that is resistant to scratches and water damage. It’s a good choice for furniture or other items that will see heavy use.
Lacquer: Lacquer is a fast-drying finish that provides a hard, durable surface. It’s often used on cabinets and other high-end furniture.
Water-Based Finishes: Water-based finishes are low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and are a more environmentally friendly option. They are also easy to clean up.

I personally prefer oil finishes for filbert because they highlight the wood’s natural warmth and character. However, the best finish depends on the specific project and your personal preferences.

Tip #5: Embrace the Imperfections

Filbert wood often has knots, figure, and other imperfections. Instead of trying to hide these, embrace them! They add character and make each piece unique.

Incorporate Knots: Strategically place knots to add visual interest.
Highlight Figure: Use finishes that enhance the wood’s natural figure.
Don’t Strive for Perfection: Remember that wood is a natural material, and imperfections are part of its charm.

I once built a small table out of filbert wood that had a large knot right in the center of the top. Instead of trying to fill it or hide it, I left it as is. It became a focal point of the table and gave it a rustic, one-of-a-kind look.

Takeaway: Working with filbert wood requires patience, sharp tools, and a willingness to embrace its natural imperfections. By following these tips, you can create beautiful and unique woodworking projects.

Filbert in Firewood Preparation: An Overlooked Gem

While filbert is excellent for woodworking, it also holds its own as firewood. Let’s explore its qualities in this arena.

BTU Value and Burning Characteristics

BTU (British Thermal Unit) measures the heat content of wood. Filbert, with a BTU rating of approximately 20 million per cord, is comparable to other popular firewood choices like ash or cherry.

Heat Output: Filbert provides a good, steady heat output, making it suitable for both fireplaces and wood stoves.
Burning Time: It burns at a moderate rate, not as fast as softwoods like pine, but not as slow as dense hardwoods like oak.
Smoke Production: When properly seasoned, filbert produces relatively little smoke.
Sparking: Filbert tends to spark moderately, so it’s best used in a closed stove or fireplace with a screen.
Creosote Buildup: Like all firewood, burning unseasoned filbert can lead to creosote buildup in your chimney. Proper seasoning is crucial.

Seasoning Filbert Firewood: Patience is Key

Seasoning is the process of drying firewood to reduce its moisture content. This is essential for efficient and safe burning.

Ideal Moisture Content: Aim for a moisture content of 20% or less.
Splitting: Split the wood to speed up the drying process. Smaller pieces dry faster.
Stacking: Stack the wood in a single row, off the ground, with good air circulation.
Location: Choose a sunny, windy location for your woodpile.
Time: Filbert typically takes 6-12 months to season properly, depending on the climate.

I use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of my firewood. It’s a worthwhile investment that can save you a lot of headaches. Burning unseasoned wood is inefficient, produces more smoke, and increases the risk of chimney fires.

Splitting Filbert: Techniques and Tools

Splitting filbert can be a bit challenging due to its tendency to have knots and irregular grain.

Axes: A splitting axe with a heavy head is the most common tool for splitting firewood.
Mauls: A maul is a heavier version of an axe, designed for splitting larger rounds.
Wedges: Wedges can be used to split particularly tough or knotty pieces.
Log Splitters: For large quantities of firewood, a hydraulic log splitter can save a lot of time and effort.

I’ve found that a combination of an axe and a wedge works best for splitting filbert. The axe is good for most pieces, but the wedge is essential for those stubborn, knotty rounds.

Takeaway: Filbert makes excellent firewood, providing a good balance of heat output, burning time, and smoke production. Proper seasoning and splitting techniques are crucial for safe and efficient burning.

Tools of the Trade: Chainsaws, Log Splitters, and More

Whether you’re processing filbert for woodworking or firewood, having the right tools is essential. Let’s take a look at some of the most important ones.

Chainsaws: The Workhorse of Wood Processing

The chainsaw is the primary tool for felling trees and bucking logs into manageable lengths.

Types of Chainsaws: Chainsaws come in various sizes and power levels, from small electric models to large, professional-grade gas-powered saws.
Bar Length: The bar length should be appropriate for the size of the trees you’ll be felling. A longer bar allows you to cut larger trees, but it also makes the saw heavier and more difficult to handle.
Safety Features: Look for chainsaws with safety features such as chain brakes, anti-vibration systems, and throttle lockouts.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your chainsaw running smoothly. This includes sharpening the chain, cleaning the air filter, and checking the oil and fuel levels.

I’ve been using a Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss chainsaw for years, and it’s been a reliable workhorse. It’s powerful enough to handle most tasks, but it’s not so heavy that it’s tiring to use for extended periods.

Log Splitters: Making Firewood Preparation Easier

Log splitters are hydraulic machines that split logs with ease. They can save a lot of time and effort, especially when dealing with large quantities of firewood.

Types of Log Splitters: Log splitters come in both electric and gas-powered models. Electric models are quieter and cleaner, but gas-powered models are more powerful and portable.
Tonnage: Log splitters are rated by tonnage, which is a measure of the force they can exert. A 20-ton splitter is sufficient for most firewood applications.
Cycle Time: Cycle time is the amount of time it takes for the splitter to complete one splitting cycle. A faster cycle time means you can split more wood in less time.
Safety Features: Look for log splitters with safety features such as two-handed operation and log cradles.

I recently purchased a 25-ton gas-powered log splitter, and it’s been a game-changer. It makes splitting large, knotty rounds a breeze.

Other Essential Tools

In addition to chainsaws and log splitters, there are a few other essential tools for wood processing and firewood preparation.

Axes and Mauls: As mentioned earlier, axes and mauls are essential for splitting firewood by hand.
Wedges: Wedges are used to split particularly tough or knotty pieces of wood.
Sledgehammers: Sledgehammers are used to drive wedges into wood.
Measuring Tools: Measuring tapes, rulers, and calipers are essential for accurate cuts and measurements.
Safety Gear: Safety glasses, ear protection, gloves, and steel-toed boots are essential for protecting yourself from injury.

Takeaway: Having the right tools can make wood processing and firewood preparation safer, easier, and more efficient. Invest in quality tools and maintain them properly to ensure they last for years to come.

Safety First: Protecting Yourself While Working with Wood

Working with wood can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Always prioritize safety when using chainsaws, log splitters, or other power tools.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

PPE is essential for protecting yourself from injury.

Safety Glasses: Safety glasses protect your eyes from flying debris.
Ear Protection: Ear protection protects your hearing from the loud noise of chainsaws and other power tools.
Gloves: Gloves protect your hands from cuts, splinters, and abrasions.
Steel-Toed Boots: Steel-toed boots protect your feet from falling logs and other heavy objects.
Chainsaw Chaps: Chainsaw chaps protect your legs from chainsaw cuts.
Hard Hat: A hard hat protects your head from falling branches and other overhead hazards.

I never start a wood processing project without wearing all of my PPE. It’s a small price to pay for protecting myself from serious injury.

Safe Chainsaw Operation

Chainsaws are powerful and dangerous tools. Always follow these safety guidelines when operating a chainsaw:

Read the Owner’s Manual: Familiarize yourself with the chainsaw’s operating instructions and safety features.
Inspect the Chainsaw: Before each use, inspect the chainsaw for any damage or loose parts.
Start the Chainsaw on the Ground: Start the chainsaw on the ground, with the chain brake engaged.
Use a Firm Grip: Hold the chainsaw with both hands, using a firm grip.
Keep Your Feet Firmly Planted: Maintain a stable stance and keep your feet firmly planted on the ground.
Be Aware of Kickback: Kickback is a sudden, violent upward movement of the chainsaw bar. Be aware of the risk of kickback and take steps to avoid it.
Never Cut Above Shoulder Height: Cutting above shoulder height is dangerous and increases the risk of losing control of the chainsaw.
Never Cut with the Tip of the Bar: Cutting with the tip of the bar increases the risk of kickback.
Clear the Area: Before cutting, clear the area of any obstacles or bystanders.

Safe Log Splitter Operation

Log splitters are also powerful machines that can cause serious injury if not operated safely. Follow these safety guidelines when operating a log splitter:

Read the Owner’s Manual: Familiarize yourself with the log splitter’s operating instructions and safety features.
Wear Safety Glasses and Gloves: Protect your eyes and hands from flying debris and splinters.
Use Two-Handed Operation: Most log splitters require two-handed operation. This ensures that your hands are safely away from the splitting wedge.
Never Place Your Hands in the Splitting Zone: Keep your hands away from the splitting wedge at all times.
Split Logs on a Stable Surface: Operate the log splitter on a level, stable surface.
Never Split Logs That Are Too Large: Do not attempt to split logs that are too large for the log splitter.
Keep Bystanders Away: Keep bystanders away from the log splitter while it is in operation.

Takeaway: Safety should always be your top priority when working with wood. By following these safety guidelines and using proper PPE, you can minimize the risk of injury and enjoy your woodworking and firewood preparation projects safely.

Sustainable Practices: Respecting the Forest

As woodworkers and firewood enthusiasts, we have a responsibility to practice sustainable forestry and wood processing.

Selective Harvesting

Selective harvesting involves removing only certain trees from a forest, leaving the remaining trees to grow and regenerate. This is a more sustainable alternative to clear-cutting, which removes all trees from an area.

Benefits of Selective Harvesting: Selective harvesting helps to maintain biodiversity, protect wildlife habitat, and prevent soil erosion.
Guidelines for Selective Harvesting: When selecting trees for harvesting, choose mature, diseased, or damaged trees. Avoid cutting young, healthy trees.

Responsible Wood Sourcing

When purchasing lumber or firewood, choose suppliers who practice sustainable forestry.

Look for Certification: Look for wood that is certified by organizations such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). FSC certification ensures that the wood comes from sustainably managed forests.
Buy Local: Buying local wood reduces transportation costs and supports local economies.
Use Reclaimed Wood: Reclaimed wood is wood that has been salvaged from old buildings or other sources. Using reclaimed wood reduces the demand for new wood and helps to conserve forests.

Proper Waste Disposal

Dispose of wood waste properly to minimize its environmental impact.

Composting: Compost wood chips, sawdust, and other small pieces of wood waste.
Burning: Burn wood waste in a wood stove or fireplace.
Recycling: Recycle wood waste at a local recycling center.

Tree Planting

Planting trees is a great way to offset the impact of wood harvesting and help to restore forests.

Choose Native Species: Choose native tree species that are well-suited to your local climate and soil conditions.
Plant Trees in the Right Location: Plant trees in areas where they will have enough sunlight, water, and space to grow.
Protect Young Trees: Protect young trees from deer and other animals that may damage them.

Takeaway: By practicing sustainable forestry and wood processing, we can help to protect our forests for future generations.

Conclusion: Filbert – A Versatile and Rewarding Wood

Filbert, or hazel, is a versatile and rewarding wood that deserves more attention from woodworkers and firewood enthusiasts. Its unique characteristics, combined with proper techniques and a commitment to safety and sustainability, make it a valuable resource.

I hope this guide has provided you with the knowledge and inspiration to explore the possibilities of filbert wood. Whether you’re crafting beautiful furniture, heating your home with firewood, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, filbert has something to offer. So, get out there, find some filbert, and start creating! Remember to always prioritize safety and sustainability in all your wood processing endeavors. The forest will thank you for it.