Oak's grain and medullary rays come from the way the tree grows. Read the end grain and the ray fleck, and you can pick boards that behave as well as they look.

A practical beginner's guide to preparing, oiling, waxing and protecting indoor oak furniture, with clear steps, drying times and simple habits that keep the timber looking well kept.

Green oak and seasoned oak behave very differently. Here is how each one moves, cuts and lasts — and which suits framing, garden work and furniture.