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Wood Photo | |
As every person is unique so is every product of nature. Wood is no
exception. One must expect variations in all respects when working with wood.
The corner samples provided represent a mixture of these variations, but in no
way can we encompass the range of color and grain to be encountered.
Though all woods change with aging (don't we all?), Cherry and Mahogany often
do so dramatically. Even six months can make a significant difference, In fact,
in direct sunlight you can see a difference in ONE DAY! If you think we're exaggerating,
take a fresh piece of cherry, tightly wrap one end with white paper, and set it
out in direct sunlight. At the end of the day remove the paper and you will be
amazed.
Click for photo of all woods, or browse the
descriptions below.
| Ash
|
A coarse but generally
straight-grained wood with almost white sapwood. Very open grain, it is
very similar to Oak. |
| Basswood
|
Fine, straight grain with even texture. Very soft, and often has brown or black spots and
streaks. Usually painted or covered. |
| Cherry
|
Fine textured wood that is usually straight-grained. Pinkish brown to deep red with occasional
black gum lines or pockets. A rich character enhanced by aging. |
| Mahogany
|
A medium-textured softer hardwood. Reddish brown to deep red. Characteristic dark color,
like that of Cherry is primarily brought on by aging. |
| Maple
|
Hard, heavy, fine-textured wood. White to slightly off-white with occasional quarter-sawn
crossbanding. |
| Bird's Eye Maple |
A "defect" occasionally found in Maple, this traditional variation is highly prized
for its unique beauty. Obviously given its name because of the whorls that
appear to be little "eyes".
Many (sometimes wild) theories abound as to the cause of this feature, though none have actually been proven. |
| Curly Maple |
Another variation on Maple, this one, though not so intricate, is no less striking. The grain
waves back and forth, giving the appearance that a flat piece of wood is actually three dimensional. |
| Oak
|
Straight grain with coarse texture; very hard, open grain. |
| Walnut
|
Somewhat coarse and usually straight-grained, but can be wavy. Rich dark brown to purplish
black. |
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