Popular Wood Species for Furniture

At Joel Bare Woodworking, we use many different types of wood. Learn more about some of the more popular wood species we use for our furniture. The following samples are face grain and unfinished and are for reference purposes only. Please contact us for actual wood samples. This ensures an accurate choice.

American Cherry

American Cherry

American Cherry has reddish tones with occasional dark mineral streaks. Cherry has light sapwood which darkens in light. This is a hard and strong wood that stains well. It is a versatile wood that is an elegant look for a butcher block countertop and for furniture. (Janka hardness 950)

Hard Maple

Hard Maple

Hard maple is a light colored wood, varying from white cream to light brown. This wood is very hard and dense and a traditional choice for butcher block countertops as it’s excellent for food prep. Accepts many stains and paints. (Janka hardness1450)


Hickory

Hickory

Hickory may have wide variations in color which range from tan to dark browns. Hickory has a creamy white sapwood with medium brown heartwood. This is a hard and dense wood and makes a great choice for countertops. (Janka hardness 1820)

Red Oak

Red Oak

Red Oak is light colored wheat brown to strawberry brown in color. This is a tough, heavy wood that stains well. An economical and decorative choice for countertops. (Janka hardness 1290)


Sapele (Mahogany

Sapele (Mahogany)

Sapele (Mahogany) has a deep red color. Sapele has a reddish brown heartwood and a slightly lighter sapwood which darkens and warms in the light. This wood is durable and stains well. Often used to create a more refined look. (Janka hardness 1410)

Walnut

Walnut

Walnut is deep & rich in color especially with natural oil. This wood has a light sapwood and dark brown or gray and black heartwood. This wood is hard and strong and stains well. A popular choice for countertops. (Janka hardness 1010)


White Oak

White Oak

White Oak is tan or brownish gray in color. Used for furniture and wood tops, this wood is hard and versatile as it can be rustic or refined and it stains well. (Janka hardness 1360)

Reclaimed White Oak

Reclaimed White Oak

Reclaimed White Oak has similar properties as white oak but will have cracks, knots and worm holes. This an excellent choice to add character to a home. This is a popular choice for mill work, tops and tables, and sliding barn doors (Janka hardness 1360)