24 BULLETIN 1437, IT. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 
LAUNDRY APPLIANCES 
The 10,000 feet of alder under this classification is used annually 
in the production of one-piece clothespins and clothesline props. 
On account of its good appearance and because it works easily to a 
smooth surface and does not warp or split in use, it is well suited also 
for the manufacture of ironing boards. 
MOTOR VEHICLES 
So far as could be determined only 3,000 board feet of alder was 
used in the construction of auto-bus and truck bodies in 1923, for 
those parts of the framework where no strain occurs. 
GENERAL MILLWORK 
For all interior work, except that subjected to excessive wear, 
red alder is an excellent wood. As it is satisfactory for furniture, 
chairs, and fixtures, it would be surprising if. this were not true. 
The only limiting factor is supply. In 1923 little or no alder was 
used for this purpose, although earlier statistics show that the gen- 
eral millwork industry used alder in rather large quantities. 
MISCELLANEOUS AND POTENTIAL USES 
Kitchen cabinets. — Alder used in the production of kitchen cabi- 
nets and tables is reported under the heading " furniture." For 
these articles it is an excellent wood, except that it may not be en- 
tirely satisfactory for unfinished table tops. 
Picture frames and moldings. — As with kitchen cabinets, any 
alder that may have been used in the production of mirror frames, 
mirror backs, picture molding, and picture backs is included under 
" furniture." Light in weight, even in texture, working easily, and 
taking an excellent mahogany, walnut, or enamel finish, it is an 
excellent wood for such uses. 
Penholders. — Red alder has been used to a slight extent for pen- 
holders, proving entirely satisfactory. 
Tailor equipment. — A small quantity of alder is used in the pro- 
duction of tailors' equipment, such as pressing boards, steam boards, 
and coat hangers. Seventeen different styles of coat hangers are 
made from alder by one firm. The ease with which it can be worked 
to a smooth surface and its freedom from warping and splitting 
recommend it for this use. 
Plumbers' woodwwrk. — Red alder is well adapted for toilet and 
medicine cases or cabinets, towel cabinets, and racks, and other 
cabinet work for toilets, which may be finished to imitate the more 
expensive hardwoods, or enameled to match the tile work of the 
room. Only a small quantity is used for this purpose at present. 
Printing materials. — Red alder is said to be suitable for bases of 
electrotypes and cuts. Although not so hard as black cherry, birch, 
and hickory, woods generally used for this purpose, it has the re- 
quisite qualities of being free from warping and capable of holding 
nails without splitting. 
