Finger-jointed wood is created by connecting short wood pieces with precisely interlocking “fingers.” This technique not only enhances stability but also reduces the risk of warping. During production, impurities like knots are cut out of the wood. To make use of the resulting shorter wood sections, the ends are finger-jointed and joined together to form a longer strip. Unlike traditional butt joints that are merely glued together, finger joints are significantly more robust. Using high-quality structural adhesives ensures that the joint remains durable and reliable over time.
How to Recognize Finger-Jointed Stretcher Bars
You can easily identify finger-jointed sections by the “zig-zagged” interlocking points in the wood, as shown in the example photo.
Structural and Non-Structural Applications
Finger-jointed wood is extremely versatile and used across many industries. In the art world, almost all stretcher bars are made using this method, which makes them stable and less prone to warping.
Especially in environments where wood is exposed to moisture and temperature fluctuations, the finger-jointing technique demonstrates its strengths. It minimizes the risk of cracking and warping, making it ideal for demanding applications.
Advantages of Finger-Jointed Wood
- Greater Stability: The interlocking finger profiles distribute forces evenly, providing added strength.
- Less Warping: The varied grain of the individual wood pieces makes the material more resistant to moisture.
- Material Efficiency: Short wood pieces that would otherwise go to waste are turned into durable products.
- Versatility: Finger-jointed wood is suitable for a wide range of uses – from structural components to decorative elements.
Processing and Quality
The production of finger-jointed wood starts with the precise cutting of wood pieces. The finger profiles are then milled and coated with adhesive. Under pressure, the adhesive cures to form a solid bond. For structural applications, deeper finger profiles are cut to provide additional stability.
Sustainability and Cost-Effectiveness
Finger-jointed wood is not only a resource-efficient choice but also actively contributes to sustainability. By using short wood sections that would otherwise be considered waste, wood consumption is significantly reduced. This makes finger-jointed wood an attractive option from both an environmental and economic perspective.
Finger-jointed wood combines stability, versatility, and sustainability. Whether you work in construction or interior design, finger-jointed wood offers an efficient and long-lasting solution for any project.
Finger-Jointed Stretcher Bars at CRAZY CANVAS
At CRAZY CANVAS, we pride ourselves on our strict, laser-controlled quality control – this is what defines artist-quality made in Germany! We guarantee that our stretcher bars are knot-free and finger-jointed. This applies to all our profiles, whether sold as individual strips or as pre-stretched canvases. Of course, our convenient DIY canvas kits also feature finger-jointed bars.