At The Amish Craftsman, we believe in crafting furniture that stands the test of time – both in terms of durability and aesthetics. That’s why every piece of furniture we offer is meticulously built using only the finest solid hardwoods sourced from sustainably managed forests across North America. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the characteristics and benefits of each wood type we offer, helping you make an informed decision for your next furniture investment.

Why Hardwood is the Superior Choice

Before we delve into the specifics of each wood type, let’s address why hardwood reigns supreme in the realm of furniture craftsmanship. Unlike engineered woods, which often incorporate plywood, particleboard, and veneers, solid hardwood is milled directly from trees, ensuring unmatched durability, natural beauty, and longevity. While hardwood furniture may come with a higher price tag, it’s an investment that pays off in the long run, aging gracefully and retaining its value over time.

Moreover, sustainability is at the core of our ethos. Rest assured, all our wood is sourced from responsibly managed forests, supporting environmental stewardship and ensuring a greener future for generations to come.

Maples: Embracing Elegance and Durability

Maple wood, renowned for its strength and versatility, offers a timeless charm that complements any decor style. At The Amish Craftsman, we offer two distinct varieties of maple – hard maple and brown maple.

Hard Maple: Also known as sugar maple, this creamy white hardwood boasts a fine texture and straight grain. Its natural light color makes it an ideal canvas for light finishes, while its exceptional hardness and resistance to wear ensure longevity.

Brown Maple: Slightly softer than its counterpart, brown maple showcases unique variations in grain pattern. Generally, the sapwood is greyish-white, sometimes with darker colored pith flecks that give it an interesting variation in color. The heartwood varies from light-to-dark reddish brown offering warmth and character to any piece of furniture. Despite its softer nature, brown maple remains a sturdy choice, making it a cost-effective option without compromising on quality.

Oaks: Timeless Classics with Unmatched Strength

For centuries, oak has been revered in furniture making for its abundance, durability, and distinctive grain patterns. At The Amish Craftsman, we offer two variations of this esteemed wood – red oak and white oak.

Red Oak: With its warm tones ranging from light brown to pinkish red-brown, red oak boasts natural straight lines and unique swirls in its grain pattern. Red oaks grow more abundantly than white oaks making it a popular (and more affordable) option for various furniture styles.

White Oak: Celebrated for its open grain and coarse texture, white oak stands out with its quartersawn grain pattern, often referred to as tiger oak. This distinctive feature, coupled with its exceptional durability, makes white oak a preferred choice for high-use pieces. The wood’s natural beauty and unparalleled strength make it a hallmark of Mission and Arts and Crafts-style furniture.

Cherry: Timeless Beauty with a Rich Patina

Cherry wood, sourced from fine Black Cherry trees, offers a perfect blend of strength and elegance. One of our most popular woods, cherry develops a deep patina over time, enhancing its natural beauty and richness. Whether you prefer it in its natural state or with a deep stain, cherry furniture exudes warmth and sophistication, making it a timeless addition to any home.

Hickory: Bold Beauty with Unmatched Hardness

Prized for its stark color contrasts and rugged grain patterns, hickory stands out as a bold choice in furniture making. As one of the heaviest and hardest American hardwoods, hickory boasts exceptional durability, making it suitable for various furniture applications. Despite its natural variation, hickory’s forgiving grain texture ensures a distinctive and eye-catching appeal.

Walnut: Richness and Elegance in Every Grain

Exuding richness and sophistication, walnut furniture makes a statement with its deep, rich brown heartwood and bold grain patterns. From chocolate brown to golden yellow hues, walnut’s color variation adds depth and warmth to any room. Most of our client’s prefer walnut with a natural oil finish to highlight the unparalleled natural beauty of the wood.

When it comes to selecting the perfect wood type for your furniture, it’s essential to consider not only aesthetics but also durability, sustainability, and personal preference. At The Amish Craftsman, we take pride in offering a diverse selection of solid hardwoods, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of maple, the classic charm of oak, the warmth of cherry, the boldness of hickory, or the richness of walnut, rest assured that your investment in quality craftsmanship will withstand the test of time, bringing joy and beauty to your home for generations to come.

Still need help choosing the right wood for you? That’s what we’re here for. Schedule your free, no-pressure design consultation and let us help you navigate the options.