Selected notes
01
Paper bends more easily in one direction than the other. For folded pieces, aligning the fold with that direction reduces strain and helps the sheet settle flat. A narrow offcut is enough for a quick test: bend it both ways without creasing and compare the resistance.
02
Fresh birch is pale and even, but daylight gradually warms it. The change is most visible beside an edge that has remained covered. Keeping a small labelled sample with each finish makes later repairs easier to match.
03
Stable conditions matter more than perfect ones. Leave a little space behind shelves, keep paper away from exterior walls, and avoid direct sun. A simple record of seasonal changes is often more useful than a single precise reading.