Tuesday, 16 October 2012

Redwood - Holly

Redwood is used mainly for paneling, cladding, decking and fencing. Redwood is used regardless of if the house is new or old (repairs, renovation etc) which means that the demand remains constant. "prices for recent sales of redwood logs have held longer at previous levels than prices for other logs." (quote from http://www.nzredwood.co.nz/redwood-uses-and-markets/) It's beautiful deep red colour makes this wood more of a display/decorative wood than other kinds. (Known as an 'appearance wood'.)
Redwood has low shrinkage/expansion rates, warping or checking rates which makes it perfect for decking and outdoor joinery. Redwood also has a natural durability to insect attacks and decay which means treatments and replacement is not needed in some cases, although a finish is recommended. Redwood is very porous and holds very little resin so it can absorb a wide range of finishes and retain them better than most other woods, which make this wood very easy to care for.
There is unsatisfied demand amongst Europe, the Eastern states and Asia for redwood as there are very few redwoods planted outside of their natural range. New Zealand however has one of the few planting grounds outside of the range, which makes our supply very valuable.

Fur - Holly Reid


Fur is a very versatile material but is often only used for statement pieces such as rugs or throws. There are many kinds of fur ranging from Faux fur, made of synthetic materials, to fox or beaver fur, often having multiple skins being sewn together to make rugs.
The photographed rug is made of fox fur and is among the most popular furs.
Faux fur has become popular in the last few years and is very cheap in comparison but often it is not as insulating as real fur and looks quite obviously fake.
Fur is perfect for blankets or rugs as it is a great thermal insulator so can hold heat for a long time but is also labour intensive so can be walked on, rubbed, washed or moved many times before it is damaged.
Fur can be dyed or bought in virtually any colour so will suit almost any environment. Being one of the softest materials used to decorate interior spaces, fur is seen to be very luxurious and expensive. Natural fox fur rugs (such as the one pictured below) sell for around $5,000 whereas sheepskin rugs sell at around $200 and synthetic (or faux fur) rugs sell at $100-$200.