Why We Use Western Red Cedar at Kelowna Woodcraft

At Kelowna Woodcraft, every product we craft tells a story—a story of dedication, craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to quality. At the heart of this story is the wood we choose: Western Red Cedar. This remarkable material is more than just a resource for us; it is the foundation of everything we create, from our elegant planter boxes to our handcrafted bird feeders. Here's why we’ve made Western Red Cedar the cornerstone of our work and why sourcing it locally from British Columbia is so important to us.

The Unique Qualities of Western Red Cedar

Western Red Cedar is renowned for its exceptional beauty, durability, and versatility. Its rich, warm tones and fine, straight grain make it a favorite for luxury home and garden products. But this wood is not just about aesthetics—it’s a high-performance material that naturally resists rot, decay, and insects. This resilience means that our products stand the test of time, even when exposed to the elements.

Additionally, Western Red Cedar is lightweight yet strong, making it ideal for crafting intricate designs. Its distinct aroma—a natural feature of the wood’s oils—not only adds to its appeal but also helps to repel pests, ensuring long-lasting beauty and functionality.

Locally Sourced, Sustainably Harvested

One of our core values at Kelowna Woodcraft is supporting local businesses and communities. That’s why we exclusively source our cedar from forests in British Columbia. BC’s cedar is some of the finest in the world, and by keeping our supply chain local, we reduce our environmental footprint while supporting the province’s sustainable forestry industry.

Sustainability matters deeply to us. The cedar we use is harvested responsibly, ensuring that the forests we rely on continue to thrive for generations to come. This commitment reflects our respect for the natural world and our responsibility as stewards of the environment.

The Challenges of Crafting with Cedar

Working with Western Red Cedar is no easy task. Its fibrous nature requires specialized equipment and techniques to ensure a smooth, flawless finish. Our team—with over 40 years of craftsmanship and logging experience—has mastered the art of working with this unique material. However, it’s not without its challenges.

Cedar’s fine dust, generated during cutting and sanding, can be harmful if inhaled. To protect our craftsmen, we invest in specialized personal protective equipment (PPE) and maintain rigorous safety standards in our workshop. Additionally, cedar’s natural oils can be tough on tools, necessitating regular maintenance and high-quality machinery to achieve the precision we demand.

Despite these challenges, we believe the effort is worth it. The result is a line of products that not only meet but exceed our customers' expectations for quality and craftsmanship.

Why BC Cedar Matters to Us

Choosing to work exclusively with British Columbia cedar is a deliberate decision that reflects our mission to honor traditional, time-tested manufacturing techniques. This wood embodies the spirit of BC—strong, resilient, and enduringly beautiful. By using this locally sourced material, we create products that instill pride in our customers, connecting them to the natural beauty of our province.

Our focus on BC cedar also underscores our belief in never compromising on quality. While other materials might be easier or cheaper to work with, they cannot match the timeless elegance and durability of Western Red Cedar. For us, it’s about creating something truly exceptional—products that stand as a testament to our craftsmanship and the natural wonders of British Columbia.

Experience the Kelowna Woodcraft Difference

When you bring a Kelowna Woodcraft product into your home or garden, you’re not just purchasing a piece of decor—you’re investing in a story of craftsmanship, sustainability, and local pride. Every grain of cedar tells a tale of the forests of BC, and every cut, sand, and finish reflects our dedication to excellence.

Thank you for choosing Kelowna Woodcraft and supporting our mission to create high-quality, handcrafted cedar products. We invite you to explore our collection and experience the difference that Western Red Cedar makes.