crafts


turning and furnishings

Woodturners love to work with Yew, but it is not easy for them to get. Any items made with Yew will be quite costly. Due to the toxin nature of Yew, it is wise not to use Yew items in dining. Common turned items are handles, lamps, candlesticks and stair spindles.

In ancient times cogs and pulley pins were turned from Yew, due to its hardness.

Yew makes the finest of furniture. Though it is classified as evergreen and softwood, it is actually one of the hardest woods there is. For a furniture maker there is no worry of warping and shrinkage.

Due to being quite a scarce wood, Yew furniture commands a premium price.

construction carpentry

I have not heard of Yew used in house or outbuilding construction. Maybe the toxicity fear prevents this.

other crafts

Being a strong, flexible wood, archery bows were made, and are sometimes still made, from yew branches.

In ancient times warriors were commanded to have bows of birch, and so were the Norman soldiers. "Commoners" were only allowed to have bows made of Ash or Elm.

Poisons for arrow tips were made from Yew leaves and seeds too.

Some harps and lutes have been made with Yew, but they are scarce.



to read about Yew as a fuel in the hearth, please click here