Species

Personality.  Like with any living thing, each wood species has it's own personality which makes it special.  The looks (grains) matched with the feels (finish) and colors (stain or paint) will help you define your house as your home.

The following information helps describes the popular species of woods you can choose for your custom piece of furniture.

Red Oak

Red oak or oak is something that typically is used in Amish furniture because it is known for strength and unique tone.  A common wood to Appalachia country, this wood is very wear-resistant.  Not to mention - its rich color and texture matches well with stain and will never go out-of-style.

Quartersawn White Oak

The mighty white oak, which is a common species in areas east of the Mississippi, is well known for its quality of holding liquids since it is harder than the red oak.  In furniture building, white oak is typically quartered, then sawn against the grain, which gives it its stunning ray fleck characteristics.  This sophisticated and classy look is sure to be a pleaser for any guest of your home!

Cherry

Cherry furniture has probably been the most popular of all the woods for furniture making because not only is it easy to work with, its rich tone was dubbed the "New England Mahogany" among early settlers because of its availability up and down the east coast.

Rustic/Sap Cherry

Growing in interest in recent years is a rustic or sap cherry.  While this is the same as "regular cherry," rustic or sap cherry includes the knots or sap trails that a premium piece of cherry would not.  Not only do these traits add more character to the wood - it also comes with a more attractive price tag for an entry-level furniture buyer who likes the look of cherry, but may not be able to afford the premium wood.

Brown Maple

Brown maple is a common wood for furniture makers because of its availability across the United States.  Often called "poor man's cherry," the grain on brown maple can easily fool an untrained eye.  But be careful - brown maple is a soft wood which makes it susceptible for nicks, dents from use.  

Hickory

Hickory, the go-to wood for tool handles for years is known for its strength and hardness.  This tree, which is native to the eastern United States, accepts stain well and will definitely withstand any wear and tear from children or pets.

Black Walnut

Oh, black walnut....how gunmakers love thee.  Seriously though, black walnut has historically been the go-to for the stocks of rifles.  Known for its extreme strength, black walnut has a rich color that is visually stunning.  While it doesn't take well to staining, black walnut is usually treated with tongue oil or linseed oil to protect the wood and enhance its beauty.

Elm

When looking at elm, one may think it is nothing but hard and sturdy.  The sometimes wild and grainy appearance may leave you to think of anything but of its true characteristics of being strong and hard!  Although we must say that you will really have to like the look in order to allow a piece of this furniture into your house.  Once you do, it will definitely be a conversation piece!