Wood Density Chart for Furniture Makers

Use our comprehensive wood density chart to select the best lumber for stable, lightweight furniture designs.

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Giang Nguyen

Wood Manufacturing Expert

Sourcing Wood by Density

When designing custom shelves, wall units, or portable desks, balancing strength and weight is key. Using wood that is too dense creates heavy furniture that is difficult to move. Using wood that is too light leads to structural sagging.

Density and Sag Resistance

For horizontal spans (like bookshelves or desk tops), density correlates directly with the Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) – the wood's stiffness.

High Density Woods (650+ kg/m³): Maple, Birch, Oak, Walnut. Best for long spans or thin profiles.
Medium Density Woods (500-650 kg/m³): Cherry, Alder, Pine. Good for structural frames where weight is a factor.
Low Density Woods (under 500 kg/m³): Poplar, Cedar. Best for vertical elements, backing boards, or interior drawer sides.

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