Education & Training - ASHS Guides
Technical Guide Books
One of ASHS’ key objectives is to share and spread knowledge about the Scottish timber industry. Through this knowledge share we hope to increase education and awareness of the benefits of Scottish timbers, and encourage more practitioners to be involved in supply and processing of homegrown timber.
To that effect, over the years ASHS have produced a number of technical guides explaining details of various aspects and practises in the industry. These guides are written by our members and have been produced with support from Scottish Forestry.
Browse the ASHS Technical Guide Booklets
Physical copies are also available through the ASHS Shop.
Construction and Operation of Two Designs of Solar Kiln
A practical guide to operating a solar kiln for drying timber, focusing on how to load, manage, and control the drying process. It provides clear advice on airflow, stacking, and day-to-day kiln management to help achieve consistent and high-quality results.
Realising the Value of Local Timber
A practical guide to understanding and increasing the value of locally grown timber. It explains the factors that influence timber quality and market potential, and outlines approaches to processing, specification, and end use that can improve returns.
Building a Solar Kiln for Drying Sawn Timber
This is a practical guide to designing and building a low-cost solar kiln for drying timber. It explains key design principles, materials, and step-by-step construction methods to help you create an efficient and reliable kiln suitable for small-scale timber processing.
Grading, Valuing & Marketing Homegrown Hardwood Logs
A practical guide to grading and valuing homegrown hardwood logs, with a focus on understanding quality, assessing potential uses, and improving market outcomes. It explains how logs are classified and how different characteristics affect value and end use.
Standard Products & Specification
This is a practical guide to standard timber products and their specification. It outlines commonly used dimensions, grading considerations, and how timber is described for different end uses, helping improve consistency and communication across the supply chain.
Secondary Processing of Timber
This booklet offers practical guidance on the secondary processing of timber, covering the stages that take place after initial conversion. It explains machining, sizing, and preparation processes that add value and prepare timber for specific end uses.
Timber Seasoning & Kilning
This practical guide booklet explains the process of drying timber through air seasoning and kiln drying. It covers the principles of moisture movement, drying methods, and how to manage the process to achieve stable and usable timber.
Guide to Sawmilling
This is a practical guide to converting logs into sawn timber. It covers the principles of sawmilling, including log selection, cutting patterns, and methods used to maximise yield and quality.