Walnut Wood Pattern

WALNUT WOOD PATTERN

Walnut is a hardwood, meaning that the tree loses its leaves in the fall and winter. English and black walnut are the most common types used in furniture making. The grain of the cut wood is straight, although it becomes wavy as you get closer to the roots. The color of walnut can vary dramatically, from very light to very dark brown.

The middle of the walnut tree produces the darker wood and the outer layer of the tree, just beneath the bark, produces the lighter wood.

Walnut is a strong, hard and durable wood that carves well and holds a good shape for a number of years. It is an excellent choice for ornate furniture that requires intricate woodworking, such as a mantelpiece or headboard. It frequently was used to make cabinets and other pieces of furniture in 17th and 18th century Europe because of its qualities. Contemporary furniture is more often made with walnut veneers rather than made of solid walnut because of cost.

Walnut furniture can easily last a lifetime. All it takes is the proper care and maintenance. Larry Frye, the executive director of the American Walnut Manufacturers Association, in Zionsville, Ind., claims that the durability of walnut is the primary reason that it has remained a popular wood for furniture makers worldwide, according to the Oakley Woods Web site.

Walnut should have a straight grain, which a clear coat of urethane will accentuate. Stains may make the grain less noticeable. Finish is simply a matter of taste. Wood furniture with wavy grain or burls may be covered with a walnut veneer to improve its appearance.

However, some walnut furniture is also covered with a walnut veneer.