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1/2" x 36" Wood Dowel

SKU: BD0500

Regular price $9.00
Sale price $9.00 Regular price $0.00
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1/2" x 36" Birch Wood Dowel Rod: Crafting & Building Component

A 1/2-inch diameter by 36-inch long birch wood dowel rod, kiln-dried and tumble-sanded for a smooth, unfinished surface. Designed for builders, crafters, hobbyists, and small businesses, this dowel offers a sturdy yet workable solution for adding structure or joining elements in woodworking, craft, and DIY projects. Suits applications demanding a clean, uniform hardwood rod that is ready for paint, stain, or further customization.

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Specifications

  • Diameter: 1/2 inch (12.70mm); tolerance: ±0.01" (0.25mm)
  • Length: 36 inches (914.40mm)
  • Material: Solid birch hardwood; visible natural grain; unfinished
  • Weight (each): Approx. 0.018lbs (8.16g)
  • End Type: Flat/square cut
  • Moisture Content: Kiln-dried
  • Finish: Tumble-sanded, smooth, unfinished
  • Strength: Medium to high; suitable for structural support in crafts
  • Flexibility: Semi-rigid; flexes slightly under pressure
  • Pack Sizes: 5, 10, 25, 100, 250, Bulk Quantities Available
  • Adhesive Compatibility: Wood glue, hot glue, epoxy, common adhesives
  • Finish Compatibility: Paint, stain, woodburning (pyrography), laser engraving, decorations
  • Burn Mark Resistance: High; laser-friendly surface—no pre-burn marks
  • Edge Splinter Risk: Low
  • Shelf Life: Indefinite if stored dry
  • Shipping: Protective ASTM D5118-compliant packaging
  • Storage: Dry, indoor location away from humidity/sunlight
 
Branch: Craftparts.com (BigC)
Sold in packs of: Pack of 5
Price(each):
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  • Consistent Sizing: Each dowel measures 1/2 inch (12.7mm) in diameter with a length of 36 inches (914.40mm); precise tolerance of ±0.01" ensures reliable fit for multi-piece assembly and repeat projects.
  • High-Quality Birch Hardwood: Kiln-dried birch provides a stable foundation that resists warping and cracking, making it a dependable choice for structural and functional builds.
  • Ready for Finishing: Tumble-sanded to a smooth surface—minimizing prep time for painting, staining, woodburning, or laser engraving.
  • Low Splinter Risk: Sanded finish means it's safe to handle, paint, or display out-of-the-box with minimal risk of splinters, even for classroom or youth projects.
  • Easy to Work: Flat, square-cut ends and semi-rigid strength allow straightforward cutting, drilling, notching, carving, or gluing using manual or powered tools.
  • Furniture making: Shelf supports, chair stretchers, table legs for models
  • Toy building: Vehicle axles, parts for wood toys, puppet rods, dollhouse construction
  • Model making: Frameworks, scale models, architectural mockups
  • Pinewood derby or STEM projects: Chassis reinforcement, axles, spacers
  • DIY decor: Cake/dessert stands, picture frame backs, signage supports, plant stakes, flagpoles, packing filler, simple curtain rods
  • Classroom and group activities: Math manipulatives, counting rods, STEM crafts, paintable ornaments, hand-crafted STEM demonstration tools
  • Will this dowel fit a 1/2 inch drilled hole?
    Yes, the dowel is made to 1/2 inch (12.7mm) diameter with a ±0.01" tolerance, allowing a snug fit in properly sized holes. For a loose fit, consider slightly enlarging the hole or sanding the dowel ends.
  • Is the dowel smooth enough for painting or staining immediately?
    Yes, the tumble-sanded birch surface is smooth, requiring little or no additional sanding for most painting or staining projects.
  • Can this dowel be cut to custom lengths at home?
    Absolutely. Use a fine-toothed saw for best results. Sand cut edges lightly to maintain a splinter-free finish.
  • Is this dowel suitable for supporting shelves or other weight-bearing tasks?
    It offers medium to high strength for its size, supporting light structural applications like craft display shelves, model furniture, or signage. For heavy shelves, consult a professional or choose a wider diameter.
  • Can I use this dowel for cake or food-related projects?
    Yes, but apply a food-safe finish before contact with food. The unfinished, kiln-dried birch is suitable for food crafts when finished properly.
  • Will the dowel warp or crack over time?
    The birch is kiln-dried to minimize warping and cracking. Proper storage in a dry, indoor area further preserves shape and integrity.
  • Does the wood have visible grain and natural variations?
    Yes, you’ll see natural birch grain and subtle wood color differences. Each dowel has a unique appearance, emphasizing authenticity in craft projects.
  • Is this dowel compatible with wood glue and other adhesives?
    Yes, birch dowels adhere well with standard craft glues (wood glue, hot glue, epoxy).
  • Can I use these dowels for laser engraving or woodburning?
    Yes, the clean, sanded surface takes detail well, and the birch hardwood profile is suitable for laser engraving or pyrography.
  • Can these be ordered in bulk for schools, kits, or retail projects?
    Yes, bulk boxes and custom pack sizes are available for large orders.
  • How are these dowels packaged for shipping?
    Each order is shipped in ASTM D5118-compliant packaging to prevent damage during transit.
  • What’s the shelf life of these dowels if stored properly?
    Indefinite. Keep in a dry area away from moisture and direct sunlight for best results.
  • Are there any sharp edges or risk of splinters?
    Low splinter risk—edges are flat/square cut and the rod is tumble-sanded for safe handling.
  • What finishes or paints are appropriate?
    You can apply all standard water- or oil-based paints, stains, or wood finishes. Birch’s natural grain takes color beautifully.
  • Can these be used outdoors?
    For outdoor use, seal with weatherproof paint or exterior-rated finish to protect against moisture.

This 1/2" x 36" birch wood dowel rod provides crafters, builders, and educators with a smooth, reliable component ready for painting, crafting, structural joining, or display use—making it an essential supply for creative and construction projects.

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