Wood: A Natural Beauty
Here at Rustic + Modern Handcrafted Furniture, we are committed to only building furniture with natural solid wood. We highly value its unique characteristics, colors, and grain patterns. When it comes to beauty, strength, and durability, there is just no substitute for natural solid wood!
In this blog post, we will explore the characteristics of natural solid wood, some of the most popular wood species that we work with, and some good questions to ask yourself when choosing the right wood species for your needs.
Characteristics of Natural Solid Wood
Wood is a natural material, so its characteristics are not always uniform. However, there are some general characteristics that are common to all wood.
Color: The color of wood can vary depending on the species of tree and the growing conditions. Some woods are light in color, while others are dark.
Grain: The grain of wood is the pattern that is created by the way the wood fibers are arranged. The grain can be straight, wavy, or curly.
Texture: The texture of wood is the feel of the wood’s surface. Some woods have a smooth texture, while others have a rough texture.
Hardness: The hardness of wood is a measure of how resistant it is to wear and tear. Some woods are very hard, while others are soft.
Strength: The strength of wood is a measure of how much weight it can support. Some woods are very strong, while others are weak.
Popular Wood Species
Alder
Oak
Reclaimed Wood
Walnut
Here are some of the most popular wood species that we build within our shop:
Alder: Alder is a very affordable and durable wood that can withstand everyday use. It is also resistant to warping and cracking. It has a light, blonde color with a straight grain and can be stained to match any décor.
Oak: Oak is a popular wood for furniture because it is strong, durable, and has a beautiful grain. It is also a relatively affordable wood, making it an excellent choice for many budgets.
Reclaimed Wood: Reclaimed wood carries a unique charm, adding character to custom furniture. Our reclaimed longleaf pine, aged over a century, brings a captivating blend of history and quality to our pieces. Check out our article 5 Great Reasons To Love Reclaimed Wood Furniture to learn more!
Walnut: Walnut is known as the “gold standard” in wood species. As such, it comes at a higher price point. Walnut is a strong and dense wood that is known for its dark brown color and beautiful wavy grain.
Choosing the Right Wood
When choosing the right wood for your project, it is important to consider the following factors:
The purpose of the project: What will the wood be used for?
The desired appearance: What color, grain, and texture do you want?
The budget: How much are you willing to spend?
The availability: Is the wood that you want available in your area?
We hope what we’ve shared here has been helpful to you as you learn about wood species and decide the types of wood you would like in your home. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions!