American Cherry: A Legacy of Beauty & Craftsmanship

There’s just something about cherry. It’s one of those woods that feels like it belongs in a well-lived-in home—one where everything has a story, and nothing is just for show. If you’ve ever run your hand over a piece of cherry furniture that’s been around for a few decades, you know exactly what I mean. It has a warmth, a glow, and a richness that only gets better with time. That’s what makes cherry special—it doesn’t just exist; it evolves.

A handcrafted cherry charcuterie board showcasing the wood’s rich, warm tones and elegant grain. Accented with striking inlays of walnut, maple, and purpleheart, this artisan piece highlights the natural beauty and depth of cherry wood, making it both functional and decorative.

A Wood with History

Cherry isn’t just another pretty hardwood—it’s been a cornerstone of American furniture-making since the colonial days. Walk into any historic home on the East Coast, and chances are you’ll find cherry wood somewhere—whether in a grand dining table, a secretary desk, or even the interior paneling of historic estates. Thomas Jefferson himself was a fan, using cherry extensively in Monticello, from furniture to architectural details. And it’s not just the Founding Fathers who appreciated it—cherry has been a favorite of fine furniture makers for generations.

By the 18th and 19th centuries, cherry had become a staple in American craftsmanship, often used in Shaker furniture, known for its simple yet elegant lines. It was also a go-to for the Federal and Queen Anne styles, where intricate carvings and delicate inlays showcased its versatility. Even today, cherry remains a top choice for high-end cabinetry, millwork, and luxury furniture.

Why Cherry Just Works

American Cherry isn’t the hardest wood out there, but it’s no pushover either. It’s strong enough to handle everyday life but easy enough to work with that craftsmen have been shaping it into fine furniture for centuries. The grain is smooth, often straight but sometimes graced with delicate curls or waves that catch the light just right. When freshly milled, cherry starts out as a soft pinkish-brown, but give it time, and it deepens into that classic rich, reddish-brown that people associate with heirloom furniture. That natural darkening process is part of what makes cherry so timeless—it ages like a fine whiskey.

Cherry in Architecture & Design

Cherry isn’t just for furniture. It’s been used in high-end architectural details for centuries—think wainscoting in historic mansions, paneling in grand libraries, and even musical instruments where its warm tones and beautiful grain make it a standout. It’s a favorite for fine millwork, especially in luxury homes where rich wood tones add depth and character to a space.

Even modern designers have caught on. While it has a strong historical presence, cherry isn’t stuck in the past. In contemporary interiors, it’s often used for sleek cabinetry, statement doors, and even custom-built accent walls that bring warmth to minimalist spaces.

Figured Cherry: When Nature Decides to Show Off

If regular cherry is beautiful, figured cherry is nature flexing a little. Sometimes, the grain takes on dramatic curls, waves, or even a quilted effect that adds another layer of depth and movement to the wood. It’s rarer, and when we get our hands on a nice piece, it usually ends up in something truly special—a centerpiece tray, a custom tabletop, or a one-of-a-kind decorative accent.

The Look and Feel of True Craftsmanship

Cherry has that balance of elegance and approachability. It’s not as bold and moody as walnut, not as rugged as white oak, and not as bright as maple—but that’s its magic. It has a depth that makes it fit into any space, whether it’s a refined office, a cozy kitchen, or a modern living room that needs a little warmth. It’s a wood that looks like it belongs.

This is why cherry is a staple in our shop. We use it for everything from furniture to custom trays to small, intricate pieces that highlight its natural beauty. It carves like a dream, sands to a buttery smoothness, and finishes like it was made to be admired.

A stunning kitchen featuring rich cherry wood cabinetry, showcasing the wood’s signature warmth and deep, reddish-brown tones. The natural luster and fine grain of cherry add a timeless elegance, making it a favorite choice for upscale interiors and classic home design.

Cherry is for the Long Haul

If you’re the kind of person who appreciates things that get better with time, cherry is your wood. It’s not for trends or throwaway furniture—it’s for people who want something that will last, something that will change and grow richer as the years go by. It’s for those who see beauty not just in how something looks today, but in how it will look years from now.

So, if you’ve ever wondered why cherry has been a favorite of furniture makers for centuries, the answer is simple: it just makes sense. It’s beautiful, it’s timeless, and it only gets better with age—just like the best things in life.

Maple: A Hardwood That Blends Beauty, Elegance, and Durability

Maple has long been a favorite among woodworkers and furniture makers for its strength, versatility, and striking grain patterns. From classic hard maple to uniquely figured varieties like birdseye and curly maple, this hardwood offers a level of beauty and durability that makes it perfect for high-end furniture, cutting boards, and fine woodworking projects. But what makes maple so special? Let’s take a deep dive into its characteristics, history, and why it continues to be a top choice in craftsmanship.

Why Maple?

Maple isn’t just durable—it’s an incredibly versatile wood that can be used for everything from furniture to musical instruments. Here’s why it stands out:

• Strength & Durability – Hard maple is one of the most durable domestic hardwoods, often used in high-traffic applications like flooring and butcher blocks.

• Variety of Colors – Ranges from pale cream to rich caramel, sometimes even with reddish or gray streaks.

• Beautiful Figuring – Unique grain patterns like birdseye, curly, and quilted maple make it highly sought after for custom furniture.

• Takes Stain Well – Maple can be left natural for a bright, modern look or stained to mimic darker woods like walnut.

• Fine, Tight Grain – Gives it a smooth surface, making it ideal for finishing techniques like oiling and lacquering.

Figured Maple Sign

Our Eternal Timber & Design sign carved into a piece of beautifully figured maple, showcasing the wood’s natural depth and character.

The Different Types of Maple

Not all maple is created equal. Here’s a breakdown of the main types:

Hard Maple (Acer saccharum)

• Also known as sugar maple, this is the hardest and most durable type.

• Often used in high-end furniture, flooring, and cutting boards.

• Has a fine, even grain with a light, creamy color.

Soft Maple (Acer rubrum, Acer saccharinum, etc.)

• Not actually soft, just slightly less dense than hard maple.

• Easier to work with and often features more pronounced grain figuring.

• Common in furniture, paneling, and decorative applications.

Country Maple vs. Hard Maple

• Both come from the same tree, but country maple includes more natural imperfections like color variations and mineral streaks.

• Hard maple is more uniform in color and grain, making it more expensive and desirable for high-end applications.

Figured Maple

Some maple boards develop unique grain patterns that make them stand out. These include:

• Birdseye Maple – Features small, swirling patterns that resemble tiny eyes. Highly prized in fine woodworking and luxury furniture.

• Curly (Flame) Maple – Has a wavy, undulating grain that creates a rippling effect. Often used in guitar bodies and high-end furniture.

• Quilted Maple – A three-dimensional, almost bubbled appearance, making it one of the most visually striking varieties.

Why I Love Working with Maple

There’s something special about maple in the workshop. Here’s why it’s one of my favorite woods to use:

• It’s a dream to machine – Maple planes, sands, and finishes beautifully, making it easy to achieve a flawless surface.

• The color transformation with finish is unmatched – Seeing the grain pop under an oil or lacquer finish is one of the most satisfying moments for a woodworker.

• It balances elegance with toughness – Maple is refined yet durable, making it perfect for both decorative and functional pieces.

• And let’s be honest, are you even a woodworker if you haven’t made something out of maple?

Final Thoughts

Maple has earned its place as one of the most beloved hardwoods in fine woodworking. Whether you’re drawn to its strength, its stunning grain variations, or the way it takes finish, there’s no denying its appeal. If you’re looking for a wood that blends beauty, elegance, and durability, maple should be at the top of your list.

Want to see our latest maple projects? Check out our handcrafted furniture and decor in our shop.

Walnut: The Crown Jewel of Hardwoods

Elegant, timeless, and undeniably luxurious—walnut is the hardwood of choice for those who demand both beauty and performance. Its deep, chocolate tones and intricate grain patterns make it a standout in any design, while its durability and workability have kept it at the forefront of fine woodworking for centuries. Recently, walnut has surged in popularity, becoming a staple in high-end furniture and modern interiors. Whether featured in a statement dining table or subtle accents, walnut is a wood that elevates everything it touches.

Why Walnut?

Walnut isn’t just another hardwood—it’s a statement wood known for its elegance, durability, and versatility. Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Rich Color & Luxurious Grain – Deep chocolate brown with hints of purple and gold, walnut’s grain is straight but often features beautiful waves and figuring.

• Strength & Stability – While not the hardest wood, walnut has excellent dimensional stability, making it a great choice for furniture that holds up over time.

• Workability – Walnut machines beautifully, carves easily, and takes finishes exceptionally well, making it a favorite among woodworkers.

• Aging Gracefully – Unlike many woods that darken with age, walnut actually lightens over time, developing a warm, golden glow.

A Brief History of Walnut in Design

Walnut has been a staple in fine furniture and woodworking for centuries, known for its use in both classic and contemporary designs.

• 18th & 19th Century European Furniture – During the Baroque and Rococo periods, walnut was used in intricately carved furniture due to its smooth grain and ability to hold detail.

• Mid-Century Modern Walnut Boom – Designers like Eames, Wegner, and George Nakashima made walnut famous in sleek, minimalist furniture that remains in demand today.

• Modern Luxury Interiors – Today, walnut is a top choice for high-end cabinetry, statement dining tables, and architectural accents in luxury homes.

How It’s Cut and Why It Matters

Unlike white oak, which is commonly available in flat-sawn, quarter-sawn, and rift-sawn cuts, walnut is almost exclusively flat-sawn due to how the trees grow. However, the way walnut is cut and selected plays a huge role in grain consistency and color matching for furniture and projects.

• Flat-Sawn Walnut – The standard and most widely available cut, showcasing bold, flowing grain patterns with rich color variations. This is what you’ll find in nearly all walnut furniture and lumber.

• Hand-Selected Straight Grain – Since quarter-sawn walnut is rare, most woodworkers looking for a clean, linear grain will select straight-grain sections from flat-sawn boards rather than seeking out true quarter-sawn or rift-sawn walnut.

• Color Matching Challenges – Walnut can range from deep chocolate brown to reddish, golden, and even purple hues. Because of this natural variation, grain matching is more important than the actual cut when trying to achieve a consistent look in large furniture pieces.

Pro Tip: If you want a more uniform color in a large tabletop or panel, it’s best to buy all your walnut from the same flitch (log) or carefully select boards with similar undertones.

Why I Love Working with Walnut

There’s nothing more exciting to a dorky woodworker than watching a piece of walnut come to life when the finish hits. You spend hours milling, sanding, and perfecting a piece, but the real magic happens when that first coat of oil goes on. The deep chocolate tones, the swirling grain, and even those unexpected streaks of purple and gold explode with richness—it never gets old.

Aside from the pure joy of working with it, here’s why walnut is one of my absolute favorites:

• It machines beautifully – Cuts cleanly with minimal tear-out, making it a dream to work with.

• It finishes like nothing else – Rubio Monocoat, Osmo, or even just a hand-rubbed oil finish brings out depth and color that no stain could ever replicate.

• It’s instantly high-end – Walnut just has that look. It doesn’t need fancy designs or over-the-top detailing—it’s timeless all on its own.

Whether it’s a massive dining table or a small cutting board, walnut has a way of making every project feel just a little more special.

And, according to YouTube… are you really even a woodworker if you don’t make everything out of walnut?

This custom engraved tray shows how the grain of walnut can be beautifully complex.

Final Thoughts

Walnut is the definition of understated luxury. Whether in furniture, decor, or fine woodworking projects, it brings a level of elegance and craftsmanship that few woods can match. Its rich tones, smooth workability, and historical significance make it a wood that will never go out of style.

Want to Work with Walnut?

Check out the finishes and tools I use to bring out the best in walnut: Our Favorites

This is a walnut end tablet that we built as a commissioned piece recently.

White Oak: History, Uses, and Why Woodworkers Love It

White oak has been a staple in woodworking for centuries, prized for its strength, durability, and striking grain patterns. Whether in furniture, flooring, cabinetry, or even whiskey barrels, this hardwood has proven its versatility across generations. But what makes white oak so special? Let’s dive into its history, characteristics, and why it remains a favorite among woodworkers today.

This is quarter sawn white oak for a project we were working on. you can really see the flecks in the grain

Why White Oak?

White oak isn’t just durable—it’s incredibly resistant to moisture, rot, and wear, making it perfect for both fine furniture and outdoor projects. Here’s why it stands out:

• Strength & Stability – One of the hardest domestic woods, making it great for furniture that lasts.

• Rot & Moisture Resistance – Its tight grain and high tannin content make it naturally resistant to water, which is why it’s used in boats and whiskey barrels.

• Beautiful Grain Options – Depending on how it’s cut, white oak can have a bold cathedral grain (flat-sawn), tight straight lines (rift-sawn), or stunning ray flecks (quarter-sawn).

• Finishes Well – Takes oil finishes like Rubio Monocoat and Osmo Polyx-Oil beautifully, highlighting its grain without looking artificial.

A Brief History of White Oak in Design

• White oak has been widely used in furniture and architecture for centuries, but it became especially popular during the Arts and Crafts movement and the early 20th century.

• Frank Lloyd Wright & White Oak – Wright favored quarter-sawn white oak for his Prairie-style furniture and interiors, appreciating its stability and natural beauty.

• Mission & Craftsman Furniture – Gustav Stickley and the Arts and Crafts movement made white oak famous in handcrafted furniture, emphasizing its natural grain and durability.

• Traditional & Modern Uses – Today, white oak is used in everything from custom furniture and cabinetry to flooring and high-end whiskey barrels, thanks to its water resistance.

How It’s Cut and Why It Matters

How white oak is milled dramatically affects its grain appearance, stability, and price. Here’s a breakdown of the three main cuts:

• Flat-Sawn – The most common cut, showing wide cathedral grain patterns. More affordable and widely available, often used in furniture and flooring.

• Quarter-Sawn – Cut perpendicular to the growth rings, revealing stunning ray flecks unique to white oak. It’s more stable, making it ideal for fine furniture and cabinetry.

• Rift-Sawn – The most expensive cut, with tight, straight grain lines and a modern, uniform look. Highly sought after for contemporary furniture and paneling.

Why I Love Working with White Oak

White oak is one of my favorite woods to work with, and here’s why:

• It machines beautifully without excessive tear-out.

• It takes oil finishes like Rubio and Osmo incredibly well, enhancing its grain without looking too glossy.

• It’s tough as hell, making it perfect for heirloom furniture, cabinets, and cutting boards that need to last.

Final Thoughts

White oak has been a woodworker’s favorite for generations, and for good reason. Its strength, beauty, and versatility make it perfect for everything from furniture to fine woodworking projects. Whether you love it for its Arts and Crafts heritage or its modern appeal, white oak is a true classic.

Want to work with white oak? Check out the finishes and tools I use to bring out its best: Our Favorites.

What’s Next in the Series?

Next up: Walnut: Why It’s the Crown Jewel of Hardwood (Coming Soon!)

The Woods We Work With: A Series on Timeless Materials

Wood isn’t just a material—it’s the foundation of great woodworking. From furniture and cabinetry to cutting boards and charcuterie boards, the type of wood you choose affects durability, appearance, and how it works in the shop. Some woods have been prized for centuries, not just for their strength but for their beauty and history.

In this series, we’re diving deep into the woods we use the most—exploring their origins, unique characteristics, and why they’ve stood the test of time.

What You’ll Learn:

• The history and legacy of classic hardwoods like white oak, walnut, cherry, and maple.

• How different cuts (quarter-sawn, rift-sawn, flat-sawn) impact grain, strength, and price.

• What makes each wood special, how it’s been used in design, and why it’s still a favorite today.

The Series So Far:

• White Oak: History, Uses, and Why Woodworkers Love It

• Walnut: The Crown Jewel of Hardwoods

• American Cherry: A Legacy of Beauty & Craftsmanship

• Maple: A Hardwood That Blends Beauty, Elegance, and Durability

Follow along as we explore the beauty, history, and craftsmanship behind the woods we love to work with.

How to Keep Your Cutting and Charcuterie Boards Looking Perfect

Your cutting boards and charcuterie boards aren’t just tools—they’re showpieces. Whether it’s a handcrafted slab of walnut or that pricey maple board you swore you’d take care of, they deserve better than being left cracked, warped, or covered in food stains. Luckily, keeping them in top shape doesn’t take much effort if you follow a few simple steps. Let’s dive into cleaning, maintaining, and protecting your boards, plus what NOT to do if you want them to last a lifetime.

Cleaning Your Board (Without Ruining It)

Cleaning your cutting or charcuterie board properly is the first step to keeping it looking great. It’s easy to do, but there are some things you absolutely want to avoid.

• Wipe It Down After Every Use

  • Use a damp microfiber cloth like these to wipe away crumbs, oils, and any leftover food bits. Microfiber is great because it picks up everything without scratching the wood.

• Use Mild Soap and Warm Water

  • For tougher messes, a little dish soap on a soft sponge works perfectly. Just make sure to rinse and dry it immediately—your board doesn’t need a bath.

• Sanitize Naturally

  • If you’re dealing with raw meat or just want to give the board a deeper clean, sprinkle it with coarse salt and rub it with half a lemon. It’s natural, effective, and smells way better than chemical cleaners.

• Dry It Immediately

  • After cleaning, always stand your board on its edge to let it dry evenly. Leaving it flat can trap moisture underneath, which is just asking for warping.

Conditioning and Protecting Your Boards

Even the best wood will dry out and crack if you don’t give it a little TLC. Conditioning your cutting or charcuterie board is what keeps it looking great and standing up to daily use. Here’s how to do it:

• Oil Regularly

  • Apply a food-safe oil like Walrus Oil Cutting Board Oil to keep the wood hydrated and protected from moisture. Just pour a small amount onto the surface, rub it in with a non-woven pad like these, and let it soak for about 15 minutes. Wipe off any excess oil with a clean cloth.

• Wax for Extra Protection

  • For a little extra durability and a smooth finish, top it off with Walrus Oil Wood Wax. Buff it in with the same polishing pad or cloth you used for the oil. The wax not only adds a protective layer but also gives the wood a nice sheen that makes it look brand new.

• When to Reapply

  • A good rule of thumb: reapply oil whenever the wood starts looking dry or loses its luster. For boards used daily, this might be every couple of weeks; for lighter use, once a month is usually fine.

What NOT to Do

There are a few things that will absolutely ruin your cutting or charcuterie board faster than you can say “oops.” Avoid these mistakes at all costs:

• Don’t Put It in the Dishwasher

  • The heat and water will warp your board beyond repair. Seriously, just don’t. If you’re tempted, remind yourself that your board isn’t cheap, and dishwashers are the enemy.

• Don’t Soak It

  • Submerging your board in water is just as bad as the dishwasher. Wood absorbs water, which leads to swelling, cracking, and eventually regret.

• Avoid Harsh Cleaners

  • Bleach and other chemical cleaners will dry out the wood and strip away the finish, leaving your board vulnerable to damage. Stick to natural cleaners or soap and water.

• Don’t Use It as a Trivet

  • Plopping a hot pan or dish on your board might seem harmless, but the heat can burn the finish and even leave scorch marks. Grab an actual trivet and save your board.

Bonus Tips to Keep Your Boards Looking Their Best

• Rotate Your Board

  • If your board doesn’t have feet, use both sides to avoid uneven wear. Rotating it gives one side a break while the other does the work.

• Store Upright

  • Boards with or without feet should always be stored on their edge when not in use. This keeps them dry and prevents trapped moisture from causing warping.

• Sand When Necessary

  • If your board starts feeling rough or develops knife marks, a quick sanding with fine-grit sandpaper will smooth it out. Don’t forget to reapply oil and wax after sanding to seal the surface.

Conclusion

Taking care of your cutting and charcuterie boards doesn’t take much effort, but it makes all the difference. Clean them properly, keep them oiled and waxed, and avoid the common mistakes, and your boards will look as good as the day you bought them (or better).

Want to use the same products we do? Check out our favorite board care essentials here. Your boards—and your food—will thank you.