Loved by DIYers, artists and carpenters, there is no rustic material more versatile than wood and timber. But why get a professional to create that piece of furniture when you can do it yourself? A quick search on the internet will result in many wood projects some of which are simple enough and don’t require any expertise. All you need is some common tools, a little elbow grease and the appropriate wood purchased from one of the many wood and timber suppliers found on Yellow.   A world of wood With a wealth of options out there, you may be confused as to which type is appropriate for certain furniture or projects. However, know that almost any kind can be used to create just anything. Boasting its own, unique characteristics, colour, grain and intensity, no one wood is like another and each will contribute towards transforming your DIY product into something beautiful.    The first thing you need to decide when it comes to selecting the wood type is whether you’d like to go with a hardwood or a softwood. Originating from broad-leaved trees that produce a  denser kind of wood, hardwoods are more durable and will certainly withstand the test of time. Popular varieties include mahogany, walnut, oak, ash, birch, maple and cherry which originate from places like the US, Africa, Brazil, Austria and other locations and as expected, they are among the most expensive options. On the other hand, softwoods generally come from conifer trees, are lighter in colour and softer. These include but are not limited to pine, spruce, cedar, fir and larch. Yet, if you’re truly after value for money, manufactured wood like fibreboard, MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard), plywood and particle board, also known as chipboard, are inexpensive yet sufficiently strong. Another option is veneer which consists of a layer of wood extracted from the circumference of a tree and attached on a dense piece of wood like MDF. If made from real wood, veneer may be as expensive as the solid variety and it is, in fact, commonly used for high end, luxury furniture. Alternative options include glued solid boards that come in whitewood, pine, poplar, beech and paulownia varieties, postform material for door panels, as well as high pressure laminates.     What’s on offer Wood and timber are typically sold in various lengths of boards, in different thicknesses and widths and in an assortment of scantlings. The island has a number of suppliers that usually operate from large warehouse facilities and offer a vast choice of wood and timber. Many provide wood products and services to the local furniture industry, however, the majority also welcome walk-in customers during their opening hours. All you need to do is simply take your measurements, select the wood that you need and you’ll get an instant quote. Once you’ve decided to proceed with your purchase, the store will cut your selected piece into any size you wish at an additional cost and if you are unable to transport it with your own car, suppliers offer delivery options, again, at an extra cost. However, the provision of this material is not the only service offered. Most will be happy to advise you on what’s the ideal cut and thickness for the particular piece you’re trying to create, the optimal type of wood needed and what’s the quickest way to complete your project. Some may even act as carpenters whereby you may bring the design of a cupboard, table or any other piece of furniture and have them create it for you. If designing is not your forte, you may ask them to help you with this too. Some stores are able to create renderings through a 3D design software. Taking into consideration your requests, needs and the functionality of the product, you’ll be able to see the design of your item instantly, while you’ll be able to make any adjustments if needed. Another service offered is edging. This involves the finishing off and smoothening of edges, a process that will eventually improve the durability of the end product. Customers can select between veneer edging or impact edging at 1, 2 or 3mm. Lacking the appropriate power tools to put your project together or you don’t have a steady hand to drill that perfect hole? Do not worry. You may ask the supplier to include some pre-drilled holes for things like hinges or handles before taking your planks of wood at home. Then all you’ll have to do is piece the various components together.     In addition, some stores may even have wood and timber-related products like coatings, paints and stains, sealants, wood glues and silicons, as well as varnishes. Other items sold are fiberglass rolls in diverse lengths and colours, membrane rolls both smooth and grained and tarpaulin sheets. Postform worktops in various thicknesses and designs are also on hand, together with a wide assortment of hardware products for doors and drawers.