A living material
Timber takes on and releases moisture as the seasons change. Across the grain, a broad top can move by several millimetres. Along the grain, movement is negligible. Furniture fails when these two directions are treated as if they behave the same way.
Designed movement
A well-made table does not try to stop timber moving. It guides the movement. Fixings, joints and gaps are designed so the top can expand and contract without splitting or pulling the base out of square.