American Hardwoods Archives - Solid Custom Heirlooms

The surprising benefits of White Oak

mattmcowen — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 18:54:04 +0000

Fun facts about White Oak

White Oak is quickly becoming one of our most popular wood choices, and it is easy to see why: from its durability to its elegant aesthetic, White Oak is an exceptional species of wood. In this blog we will cover the key benefits of White Oak wood and discover why it is gaining so much popularity.

3 benefits of White Oak

The 3 benefits of White Oak are Health, Style and Strength.

Health benefits of White Oak

While most people think of White Oak for use in fine furniture, this hardwood species is also known to have excellent health benefits, whether applied topically or orally. It has antibacterial properties which can help to heal burns, the liver, stomach issues and is even effective against forms of drug resistant bacteria. Due to its high ellagitannin content it can help to protect from free radicals, and can even cure skin ailments.

But even though White Oak can have such great health benefits, it is not advised that you go to your local park and start gnawing on the nearest member of the Fagaceae family. It is recommended to consume wood under the care of a qualified health professional, which usually involves pre-made supplements.

Style

White Oak has tremendous style: with its sleek appearance and varied colors, a White Oak furniture piece can add great style to any room. Its tight cellular structure allows it to be sanded to an immaculately smooth surface, making it one of the smoothest hardwoods. This surface can then be more effectively stained with a myriad of stain choices.

White Oak has colors ranging from grey to muted tones. One of the reasons why people like White Oak so much is its cool tone color palette. Its colors vary from grey brown to a golden color, and it has an understated yet classy aesthetic.

Strength

White Oak has a particularly dense cellular structure which makes it very strong, perfect for high use furniture such as beds, cabinets and dressers. This dense construction gives White Oak a very moisture resistant quality, making it highly favored for wine barrels and also furniture. It is one of the hardest hardwoods, and that is saying something!

White Oak Tree Pros and Cons

But why is Oak used for furniture? What are the pros and cons of a White Oak tree? Here are the pros and cons:

Pros:

1. White Oak is a long-lasting wood species.
2. It is very durable and strong.
3. White Oak is very dense.
4. This type of wood is quite water-resistant.
5. White Oak looks amazing!

Cons:

White Oak is particularly dense and heavy.
It will probably rot within the next couple thousand years.

Red Oak vs White Oak for Furniture

There are two varieties of Oak commonly used in hardwood furniture: Red Oak and White Oak. Red Oak and White Oak are two very different but related wood species. While they may both be called Oak, they vary greatly in constitution: White Oak is dense and heavy, while Red Oak is porous and light(er).

Now to be clear, Red Oak’s pores are not large and are only visible to the naked eye at very close range, but they do have an impact on the wood. The porousness of Red Oak has three major effects: firstly, it creates a surface that cannot ever be sanded to a perfect smoothness. No matter how hard you sand it, Red Oak will always be slightly rough, while White oak can be sanded down to buttery smoothness.

Second, Red Oak is much harder to stain than White Oak. White Oak can be stained with many different bright and vibrant colors, but Red Oak cannot because of its pores.

Finally, because it is porous Red Oak is not nearly as water resistant as White Oak. Wine is often stored in barrels made from White Oak, because this wood’s dense nature allows it to make an effective container that will not spill liquid. However, if you were to construct a wine barrel out of Red Oak, all the wine would seep out through the pores!

Therefore, we can reasonably conclude that Bilbo and the drawrves escaped the halls of the Woodland King in barrels made of White Oak. If the barrels had been made of Red Oak then the whole company would have certainly drowned in the river, and Tolkien would have probably never bothered writing The Hobbit. But as it is the barrels were White Oak, and therefore we have this gem of western literature.

The colors and looks of these two types of woods also differ from each other: White Oak tends to have more muted tones such as grey, brown and, you guessed it, white. But Red Oak tends to have more vibrant tones like Red and Yellow.

Red Oak has a very distinctive look and can bring back memories for many people, as it was reasonably popular in the 1980s. If you were to venture into an office constructed in the 80s, you would probably find that most of the cabinets and desks were made out of Red Oak (or at least imitation Red Oak).

So, if you want an extremely sturdy piece of furniture with a very smooth finish, choose White Oak. But if you want a lighter but still strong furniture piece with a more rustic surface, go for Red Oak.

Fun Facts about the White and Red Oak Trees

White Oak furniture sounds alright, but we need some fun facts! So you may be wondering: what are some fun facts about the White Oak tree? We got you: here are 3 fun facts:

White Oak Trees can live a very, very long time: the average lifespan of a White Oak tree is about 200-300ish years old, with some specimens being even older! Wow, that’s old! That means that the oak tree you grew up climbing on as a kid could be the same one that George Washington climbed on when he was a kid! Or more likely the tree you grew up with could have been used to hang a bandit back in the wild west of the 1870s! Cool!
The Wine barrels that Bilbo and the 13 dwarves used to escape from the halls of the Elvin Woodland King were almost definitely White Oak. Bilbo probably even checked to make sure that they were White Oak before stuffing his companions into them, because as an avid arborist and devoted disciple of horticulture he was likely well aware of White Oak’s exceptional waterproof properties.
Red Oak was popular in the 1980s. The kids these days seem to be obsessed with the retro fad, including everything from original game consoles to neon clothes. But they probably are not aware that Red Oak was also big back in the 80s. All you need to see this is to go to your grandma’s house, and you will quickly discover that the kitchen cabinetry is Red Oak, or at least imitation Red Oak.

Solid Custom Heirlooms is a custom furniture builder based in Appalachia USA. We use American hardwood to craft a wide variety of beds and dressers & chests from simple to elaborate. If you don’t see what you are looking for, or want to talk more about achieving a specific look or type of furniture, please contact us and we would love to help you make your dreams a reality.

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The disadvantages of Pine wood furniture

mattmcowen — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 03:46:28 +0000

Is Pine a good choice for wood furniture?

Pine wood has been used for centuries for everything from building homes, fencing livestock to building furniture. And while there are plenty of good reasons to consider Pine bedroom furniture, in our experience Pine, and all softwoods for that matter, have some significant disadvantages, especially when building heirloom quality pieces that are intended last be passed down from generation to generation. This blog will discuss the qualities of modern pine wood and dive into the pros and cons of pine wood furniture.

What is Pine wood?

Pine is a softwood lumber most commonly used in general construction applications such has residential framing and fencing. Pine trees grow quickly throughout many regions of the world and for that reason are considered to be one of the most sustainable types of general purpose lumber.

Pine wood is creamy white to yellow in color with brown and black streaks throughout. Pine is high in pitch content and usually has a large number of knots, either solid to the wood or observed as small to medium sized holes in the wood. Because it is a softwood, Pine can can warp significantly when aging and has a wide, wavy grain pattern. When handled, pine is noticeably soft, with most specimens denting or scratching with a fingernail.

Is Pine wood good for furniture?

Most modern Pine bedroom furniture is oriented toward the lower-cost end of the furniture market. Because the lumber itself is inexpensive and soft and easy to work with, lower cost pine furniture can be found at many big box and home improvement stores. If you are looking for furniture for kids rooms, dorm rooms or other places where low cost is the priority, Pine may be a great choice.

But when it comes to crafting long lasting, durable furniture, our experience at Solid Custom Heirlooms is that Pine is simply too soft to remain durable and good looking over time. For example, suppose that you want a dresser with drawers for a child’s room. A piece like this will receive lots of abuse over time, from spills and impacts to the top, to accidental kicks around the legs and enthusiastic drawer pulling and slamming. This author can say from my own experience that a Pine dresser did not hold up to this heavy use in my own home!

Because of its soft surface, Pine will chip and dent easily, no matter the finish used. Furthermore because of its soft wood structure Pine does not retain fastening hardware in the same way as hardwood. This means that over time, screws, nails, and even dovetail drawer joints will gradually loosen making the furniture less strong and stable.

We believe high quality dressers and beds should be made from hardwood such as Oak, Cherry or Maple. Because of their inherent strength, with a hardwood, these many of the problems of Pine do not exist. With the exception of outright mistreatment, a good solid hardwood dresser will last decades longer then any Pine wood one. And not only does hardwood resist scrapes and impacts, it can be sanded and repaired over time.

Is Pine wood furniture durable?

Pine bedroom furniture, or any other softwood furniture for that matter, is simply not as durable as furniture made from hardwood.

Pine wood is not a weak wood by any means. In fact its most popular use is in residential wood construction where it shows tremendous strength under loads. But the same strength that is good for building a roof or concrete form is not necessarily the best for furniture. This is because for furniture while strength is important, it is equally important that the wood surface be hard. All surfaces of wood furniture needs to withstand daily wear and tear as well as occasional accidental impacts to stay looking good. Because of its wide, soft grain, over time the surface of Pine wood will splinter and split, making your furniture unusable. So while Pine wood is strong, it is not as durable as hardwood when used for furniture.

Is Plywood stronger than Pine wood?

Plywood is made from layers of thin wood strips compressed together with glue and other binders. As a result plywood is very stable and can be very strong in certain applications and in specific orientations. For example, plywood used to sheath the wood frame of a home adds a tremendous amount of lateral stability or “sheer support” to a home. However the same plywood, when not attached to wood framing would not be able to support a wall.

For most furniture applications, solid wood is a better choice than plywood because it is strong in ALL directions -up, down and side to side. In addition, the glues, binders and formaldehyde that is often used in plywood and particle board can emit fumes for years after being manufactured. For most furniture applications Pine wood – and all solid wood- is stronger and a better choice than plywood.

More information can be found in our “Solid wood vs Plywood“ blog.

Is Pine wood better than hardwood?

Pine wood is not better than hardwood, especially for furniture. Pine wood is a softwood, and it has all the characteristics of one. It usually looks very plain. Any nice looking patterns it has are from irregularities in the wood. For example, a common weakness is a loose knot. A loose knot is formed when a branch intersects the wood, leading to a hole surrounding a stick. The problem comes when the less dense tree trunk wood shrinks away from the denser branch. This creates a hole where the branch falls out of. This leads to structural issues, as well as cosmetic ones.

Furthermore, even the best Pine wood is easy to dent. The fibers of the wood are loose and large, and even aged pine is soft enough to nick. Hardwood usually does not have this problem. It has tight grain that does not shrink much over time, and it does not have nearly as many knots as pine wood. It is better.

Hardwood is stronger than Pine. Hard wood grain characteristics lead to a stronger piece of wood. It is stronger in every direction and in every direction. The only thing that softwoods are better at is weight. Softwoods, having less density, have less material per piece of wood then dense hardwoods. So they are lighter because they are less strong.

What is the best wood for furniture?

Hardwood such as White Oak, Maple and Cherry have long been the best choice for high quality, long lasting furniture. Hardwood is not only beautiful but stays strong over time and is highly dent and scratch resistant because of its highly dense wood fibers.

Hardwood such as Walnut, Ash and Wormy Maple is prized not only for its strength but for the incredible beauty of its color and grain patterns. Each piece of hardwood is truly one of a kind and depending on your preferences can be subtle to downright bold.

The cost of Pine wood

Pine wood is great for cheap strength. However, it is terrible for durability. Pine wood is low in dollars, but expensive in the long run. Pine wood and plywood furniture will fall apart faster then with hardwood. That means that you will have to replace them sooner than with solid hardwood furniture. Therefore, it is harder to make quality furniture with low quality wood. Would you rather have four dressers in 4 years, or one for a century? That is the difference.

Pros and Cons of pine wood furniture

Pros:

- Pine wood is strong for a softwood
- Pine wood is low in initial cost
- Pine trees grow quickly
- Pine takes paint well

Cons:

Pine wood scratches easily
Pine wood dents easily
Pine wood is not as strong as hardwood
Pine does not take stain well

Conclusion: the disadvantages of pine wood furniture

So, the results are clear; pine wood is not great for furniture, because it is soft and does not last long. It is also a rather boring wood to look at, with straight grain and a bland color. It is better, for the past and for the future, to use solid hardwood for your furniture. Your wallet and your eyes will thank you!

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Why I love Cherry wood

mattmcowen — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 20:12:21 +0000

Building solid Cherry wood furniture

I recently took a break from my regular job here at Solid Custom Heirlooms running our website and social media accounts to step back into a job that I truly love – working with hardwood. My teenage sons and I spent about a week sanding and preparing all the wood for a custom Cherry wood cabinetry project that is destined for my own home. And when I say sanding, I mean a LOT of sanding. We sanded every surface to a fine texture with a progressive regimen of course to fine grit sandpaper. It was a fun and occasionally grueling job, especially in the summer heat of my driveway.

After we were all done I thought I might be sick and tired of Cherry wood! But instead I found myself all the more enthusiastic about this amazing American-grown lumber. And while I was sanding… and sanding… and sanding… I got the idea to share with our website visitors some of the up close and personal reasons why I love Cherry wood and why if you ask me, I’ll almost always recommend Cherry for use in the fine furniture that we build for our customers.

And in case you are wondering, the cabinet project is waiting for me to take another week off to be finished. When complete, it will be natural Cherry (no stain) finished with Tung Oil. This is my personal favorite choice that we offer, and I’ll share more about why below.

Why we love Cherry wood

Cherry is very smooth when finished!

Like all hardwood, Cherry wood in dimensional lumber form comes from the mill with a rough surface. As it is progressively finished with machine tools and then by hand via sanding with increasingly finer grades of abrasives, it slowly reveals a very smooth, almost mirror like finish. Unlike other hardwoods such as Red Oak and Ash, when properly sanded Cherry wood is completely smooth the touch and does not reveal any grain texture.

When working with and finishing Cherry wood, I find that there is a certain “ah-hah” moment during the final stages of standing when the wood reaches what I like to think of as “peak smoothness.” While it’s hard to say exactly when this happens – when you feel it, you know it! Putting in the work to get to this point makes Cherry a genuine joy to work with and why it is first choice for many woodworkers when they craft their own furniture.

This smooth texture adds an extra bit of elegance to any project that is both seen and felt. For example many customers with Cherry canopy beds like the bed shown here tell us that the texture of the headboard and the canopy posts enhance the look and feel of their bedroom.

Cherry wood feels good to the touch

Finished Cherry lumber not only has a smooth texture but also feels good to the touch. Not unlike a well worn rope or piece of fabric, finished Cherry has an undeniably satisfying “hand” when used. Don’t get me wrong – Cherry is a very hard and long lasting hardwood – but the finished surface is also “soft” to the touch. This truly is difficult to describe in writing, but one of the reasons I love to have Cherry in my home is this buttery texture. I find myself running my hand over the wood once it is finished just for the enjoyment of it.

Cherry wood darkens in color over time

Unlike other hardwoods such as Maple or White Oak, Cherry wood darkens in color over time. This means the longer you have it, the more it will develop the deep red brown coloration that its known for.

When first milled and finished Cherry is light brown in color with a distinct pink hue that will gradually fade to a darker reddish brown. Cherry darkens in this way because natural UV light oxidizes the tannins and in turn causes a chemical reaction that changes the color of the wood’s surface. Unless an oil based stain is used to give the wood a desired color, this reddish brown coloration will become darker and more rich in time.

If you prefer a light colored hardwood that will not darken in color significantly over time, we recommend Maple or Oak. Do you want to know more about Cherry wood colors? Our blog Cherry vs. Maple wood color provides even more detail.

Cherry wood is a perfect match for Tung Oil

If you have spent any time on our website or Instagram page, you know we are advocates of Tung Oil finish. Tung Oil is natural oil produced from the nuts of the Tung tree and has been used for centuries as a wood finish. Tung Oil is naturally low VOC, food safe and produces a rich matte finish. You can also add a high quality furniture wax to a Tung Oil surface to add a satin or glossy finish.

I personally feel that there is no better finishing option for American Cherry than Tung Oil. This finish not only enhances the color at the start of the project, but as the wood darkens in time the oil seems to meld with the wood and produce a rich depth of color that cant be replicated with polyurethane or other synthetic products. Take a look at this photo of a Cherry wood headboard that has aged about 30 days. The oil enhances the grain of the wood and allows the color to naturally change. This wood will get better and better looking over time. Even with heavy use the wood will stay in great shape and remain smooth to the touch!

More about why we use Tung Oil

Cherry only gets better with time

I hope that this blog helped you learn more about Cherry lumber and why we love it. My project – and this blog – is on pause for the moment until I’m able to take another break from work to finish it! In the meantime if you have questions about Cherry wood or any of the hardwood choices that we offer, please send us an email at support@solidcustomheirlooms.com and we are always happy chat!

Please check back soon as I plan to provide more updates as my project progresses.

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Which wood is better Walnut or Oak?

mattmcowen — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 23:14:25 +0000

Oak vs Walnut wood furniture

At Solid Custom Heirlooms we pride ourselves in building custom furniture from some of the best hardwoods in the world: Oak and Walnut. And while both of these wood species are extremely durable, long lasting and beautiful, they each have their own qualities that make them uniquely special and suited to different applications.

But many customers will ask which one is better. Both Walnut and Oak are hardwoods that fit a similar category in the solid wood hierarchy. They are extremely durable, have tighter grain patterns than most other woods, and have a beautiful grain pattern. However, each have their own unique qualities that make Red Oak and White Oak wood good for one thing and Walnut wood good for another.

Comparing Oak and Walnut color tones

Is Oak or Walnut better? It depends on your personal preference and for what type of wood the furniture is used for. Both species are high quality furniture hardwoods that are known for their color and special grain patters and will last for generations. Walnut is primarily known for its deep brown color while Oak is renowned for its strength, high density and pronounced grain pattern. Let’s dive into the Oak vs Walnut discussion to find out what wood is best for your project.

Walnut wood characteristics

Walnut is a medium-density hardwood that is good for furniture like cabinets, interior flooring, and beds. It is also widely used in gun stocks, guitars and pianos, among other musical instruments. The dense wood creates a low, sweet resonance that is pleasing to the ear.

Walnut is a beautiful species of wood, with it’s darker parts giving way to lighter shocks of color. It is loved by craftsmen because it is easy to shape, consistently keeps it’s shape after a project is compete, and is impact-resistant.

Walnut wood grain is beautiful, which goes through the light brown wood to the darker sections. Walnut has a deep dark brown color reminiscent of chocolate or coffee with streaks of other colors including cream, yellow, blue and sometimes green. Walnut is the darkest wood that we offer and we never add stain to its natural color.

Walnut downsides

However, there are some downsides to this beautiful wood. It is somewhat softer than other hardwoods such as Oak, Cherry and Maple. That means that while it can take a beating, it will scratch and dent easier. If you choose walnut for children’s furniture, table tops , flooring or other high-wear surfaces, you will need to take special care to protect the naturally smooth finish.

Walnut is also less insect-resistant than Oak or Maple. If you know that bugs are an issue in your area, then Walnut should not be your first choice, even with the best wood stains. Walnut and oak floors both get the job done, but oak wood is stronger.

Does Walnut wood crack?

Walnut wood will not crack if it is kiln dried and finished properly. If it is not then it will crack like any other hardwood.

Advantages of Walnut

- Walnut is easy for wood workers to shape
- Walnut is good for musical instruments
- Walnut is impact-resistant
- Walnut is beautiful
- Walnut’s dark coffee color is truly unique

Disadvantages of Walnut

- Walnut is more expensive than other hardwoods
- Walnut requires more care than other hardwood species
- Walnut is softer that other hardwoods
- Walnut is less insect resistant than Oak or Maple

Oak wood characteristics

Oak has long been one of the most sought-after woods for furniture because of it’s strong, durable nature and good looks. It is some of the densest, hardest and strongest wood that is offered by Solid Custom Heirlooms. If strength and impact resistance is your top priority Oak should be at the top of your list.

At Solid Custom Heirlooms we offer both Red Oak and White Oak. Each of these sub-species have their own advantages and disadvantages that differ from each other that make them better suited for different applications.

White Oak vs Red Oak

White Oak

White Oak Comes from the American White Oak tree. It is characterized by its light color and prominent “rays,” giving it a subtle yet attractive grain pattern. It’s also known for its strength and durability.

What is White Oak good for?

White Oak is good for making strong, high quality furniture and flooring. This means that you get a very strong, hard wood that does not pick up nicks easily. It is good for everything, but shines in high-impact applications like tables. White oak is the most durable wood we sell, in general.

The color of white oak is very trendy, with it’s light beige and white giving a striking look to any piece of furniture made by it. It also more of a straight grain than red oak, and can be sanded down to a smooth finish.

What is White Oak not good for?

However, there are some disadvantages to White Oak. Because of its popularity, White Oak is a bit more expensive than Red Oak, as it only grows in the northern hemisphere. This makes the supply low, so it becomes more expensive through demand.

It has a very distinctive color, having that white, straight grain. If you are going for a darker look, we suggest going with Walnut or Red Oak.

Red Oak

Red Oak furniture comes from the Northern Red Oak, a deciduous tree that produces hard, heavy, yet porous lumber. Red Oak is slightly less dense than White Oak but still very durable.

What is Red Oak good for?

Red Oak is good for furniture, flooring, and cabinetry. It is extremely dense and strong, resisting most of what can be thrown at it. It will last for decades if cared for properly, and it has the added benefit of being both sustainable and lower in cost than other Hardwoods. Red Oak grows quickly in many parts of the world, meaning that there is a lot of it. That lowers the cost.

Red Oak also has a warm pinkish red to yellow color with a bold grain pattern, making it a striking wood to look at. Red oak is a straight grained wood, with a straight grain pattern.

What is Red Oak not good for?

Red oak has a pronounced, porous grain pattern. Red Oak grain can be felt by hand even after careful sanding and buffing. This leads to a pronounced texture that will show through most finishes.

Red Oak is not as hard as White Oak. If strength is the most important, then we suggest white oak.

How to decide between Walnut and Oak furniture

Oak wood is more dense and durable than Walnut. If your new furniture will receive a high level of wear from kids, dogs or just about anyone else, Red or White Oak is strongest choice.

Oak is less expensive than Walnut. There is a lot more variety for hardwood out there, meaning that there is a higher supply. This makes Oak cheaper than Walnut.

Oak wood has a higher insect resistance vs Walnut. Oak wood is more bug resistant. If there are a lot of wood-eating bugs in your area, then it is safer to go with Oak.

Oak wood has more variety to choose from. There really is only one type of Walnut wood. That means that you are locked into a certain look with Walnut. Oak offers more options, with more chances to nail that perfect look.

Oak can be stained to create a wide variety of colors while Walnut is best left to its natural color.

Walnut wood is beautiful and rare. Walnut wood has a striking beauty to it. This beauty is heightened by it’s rarity. It is harder to find good Walnut. So if you are going for the ultimate statement piece, choose Walnut.

Is Walnut or Oak better?

At Solid Custom Heirlooms we think that hardwood makes the best furniture and both Oak and Walnut are favorites! Whether you want a simple platform bed for your Queen size mattress or an elaborate California King luxury bed, we are here to help. Our goal is to offer a wide variety of beds hand made from high quality American hardwood. If you don’t see what you are looking for, or want to talk more about achieving a specific look or type of bed, please contact us and we would love to help you create your dream bed!

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Is Oak the best wood for furniture?

mattmcowen — Sat, 13 May 2023 18:40:14 +0000

What type of wood makes the best furniture?

Here at Solid Custom Heirlooms we build all types and styles of bedroom furniture – from platform beds to nightstands and dressers. We feature 7 wood choices: Ash, Cherry, Maple, Wormy Maple, Red Oak, White Oak and Walnut, and while all of these choices make quality, long lasting furniture, there is one species that has been used throughout American history more than any other: Oak.

Many people feel Oak is the best wood for furniture because it is strong, durable enough to resist everyday wear and tear, and looks great in a wide variety furniture styles and finishes. Oak is good for fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry and all types of high quality woodworking.

Both Red and White Oak trees are a sustainable resource and grow abundantly throughout the United States. Furniture made from Oak is NOT the most expensive wood as compared to other choices, yet can be expected to last for many decades of trouble free use.

There was a time in the not so distant past where most American bedroom sets – and all home furniture for that matter – were made from Oak. But modern American décor tastes have changed and other furniture grade hardwoods have become more popular. Even though often more expensive than Oak, Cherry and Maple are now our most requested choice for furniture.

But Oak still has a special place in many people’s hearts and we certainly still get plenty of requests for it. White Oak bedroom furniture sets in particular are a growing design trend. This blog will explore the primary types of this wood: Red and White Oak.

Red Oak vs White Oak Solid Wood Furniture

Red Oak and White Oak are two different but related wood species. Red Oak gets its name from its pink to yellow hues and is known for its pronounced circular grain pattern. White Oak is typically beige to gray in color with darker streaks and a less distinct grain pattern. Both types are commonly used for furniture, cabinetry and flooring. If you have an older American home with original hardwood floors, chances are it is made from one of these two types of Oak wood.

Red Oak furniture

Red Oak furniture comes from the Northern Red Oak, a deciduous tree that produces hard, heavy, yet porous lumber. Red Oak is slightly less dense than White Oak but still very durable. Red Oak is good for furniture, flooring, and cabinetry. Red Oak is resistant to moisture, making it suitable for high-humidity areas where other woods may be prone to rot or cracking.

What are the disadvantages of Red Oak?

- Red Oak is porous. Red Oak is identified by the open pores between its growth rings. While this does not cause a problem when it is used to build furniture – it would never be appropriate for holding liquid such as wine barrels which are made from White, not Red Oak.
- Red oak has a prominent grain pattern and texture. Many people feel that the grain is part of the beauty of Oak, but keep in mind that no matter how much it is sanded and buffed, Red Oak will always have a grain on the surface that can be felt when touched. If you are looking for a perfectly smooth finish then you may want to take a look at Cherry or Maple.
- Color. While beauty certainly is in the eye of the beholder, the pink to gold tones of Red Oak are less popular than they’ve been in the past! With a trend towards brown and gray tones, White Oak is now much more popular than Red.

Red Oak wood pros and cons

Red Oak Pros

1. Red Oak is sustainable and grows throughout the world
2. Red Oak is extremely dense and strong and will last for decades if cared for properly
3. Red Oak lumber is lower in cost vs other hardwood species
4. Red Oak has a warm pink to yellow color with a bold grain pattern

Red Oak Cons

Red Oak grain can be felt by hand even after careful sanding and buffing
Red Oak has a porous grain that can make it tricky to finish properly
Red Oak is not as hard as White Oak
Red Oak’s color is not currently as trendy as White Oak or Maple

White Oak furniture

White Oak Comes from the American White Oak tree, Quercus alba, and is characterized by its light color and prominent “rays,” giving it a subtle yet attractive grain pattern. It’s also known for its strength and durability. White Oak is good for making high quality furniture, flooring, and also is prized for use in wine barrels both because of its waterproof grain and the flavor it imparts to the wine as it ages.

What are the advantages of White Oak wood?

- White Oak’s neutral beige, brown and gray colors are currently on-trend!
- White Oak has a tight, straight grain that will add character and texture to the overall décor of the room without being overpowering.
- White Oak is naturally resistant to water and rot, which makes it popular in outdoor applications as well as a very resilient and long lasting flooring choice.

Is Oak expensive?

The cheapest wood for furniture is softwood, typically Pine or Douglas Fir. While lower in cost than hardwood, the age old rule applies – with Pine furniture, you get what you pay for! While it can look good online or on the showroom floor, softwood is generally not strong enough to stand the test of time. Beds made from Pine will often start to creak and squeak after a few months of regular use.

Oak wood provides a much sturdier alternative, and may not be as expensive as you think. Red Oak is the lowest priced hardwood that we sell and is a significant upgrade to cheap softwood or particle board furniture from Ikea or other big box stores. A Red Oak bedroom set not only creates a solid foundation for your bedroom but also looks great and is likely to last long enough to be passed down for generations to come.

What is Pickled Oak finish?

A Pickling wood finish – so called because it preserves, or “pickles”, the wood – is a stain technique similar to whitewash that adds a white or gray pigment to the wood, brightening the color tone and accenting the natural grain pattern. Red Oak is often used for the pickling technique because its porous grain accepts the stain well and creates a classic look. Take a look at this example of a Red Oak dresser with a Pickled finish – what do you think?

Why is Oak furniture the best?

At Solid Custom Heirlooms we think that hardwood makes the best furniture and Oak is one of our favorites! Whether you want a simple platform bed for your Queen size mattress or an elaborate California King luxury bed, we are here to help. Our goal is to offer a wide variety of beds hand made from high quality American hardwood. If you don’t see what you are looking for, or want to talk more about achieving a specific look or type of bed, please contact us and we would love to help you create your dream bed!

The post Is Oak the best wood for furniture? appeared first on Solid Custom Heirlooms.

Solid wood vs plywood

mattmcowen — Sun, 07 May 2023 21:42:48 +0000

Plywood or solid wood: which is better?

Customers often ask – is plywood or solid wood better? When buying a new piece of furniture, customers want to know if natural wood is actually worth it. The short answer is: YES! Solid wood is simply superior to plywood. Not only does it look better and last longer, but real wood will save you money in the long term.

What is the difference between plywood and solid wood?

Plywood is a manufactured product made from thin layers of wood (plies) sandwiched together with binders and preservatives, then compressed and heated. The result is a large sheet of material that has a very good strength to weight ratio and can often be lower in cost that a solid wood equivalent. Plywood is ideal for cabinet sides and backs, interior shelves and other surfaces that are not commonly seen during everyday use.

It’s important to keep in mind that the binders, adhesives and preservatives used in plywood often contain chemicals that offgas toxic fumes for months or years. If you are sensitive to formaldehyde or other preventives, you may want to avoid plywood in your home, or at the very least make sure it is sealed very well.

If you are sensitive to chemical offgas, insist on furniture made from solid wood with a low VOC finish such as Tung Oil.

Why is plywood used?

Now, this is not to say that good quality plywood is useless. Plywood is great for areas that need lightweight strength while not being seen. At Solid Custom Heirlooms we use high quality plywood for things such as drawer bottoms, cabinet backs and some interior bed pieces that are hidden from view during day to day use.

We use plywood for these applications items because of its strength to weight ratio. For example, to use hardwood for the unseen back of a dresser, we would need to use a 1 inch thick panel. Compare this with a 1/4 inch thick piece of plywood which has similar strength while being significantly lower in weight and consumes less space. This not only creates a design that is better, but it reduces shipping costs by reducing weight.

Not all plywood is created equal

Before we continue, we must point out that not all plywood is created equal.

We only use very high quality plywood made in the US. This plywood is usually made from real wood veneers glued together with resin, and then pressed under thousands of pounds of pressure. This creates thin sheets of a highly dense and durable material that is very good for retaining heavy loads over long periods of time.

But, this is for very high quality plywood. It is similar to marine grade plywood, but marine plywood is treated with waterproof glue. Ours is finish grade plywood.

However, your average “big box store” piece of furniture is not made with this material. Rather, it is made with a low cost type of plywood also known as particle board – a sheet material made from wood scraps, chemicals and glue. You can learn more about the disadvantages of particle board here.

Often the manufacturer will put a sheet of wood veneer made out of natural solid wood over particle board to make it look nice, but it will come apart under any serious pressure.

You are in essence buying the wood version of Spam. Put too many books on a shelf made with that stuff and it will snap in half. So much for the decorative veneer!

Why is solid wood better than plywood?

At this point, many of you will ask, “this American plywood sounds pretty good. It seems stronger. Why not make everything out of this laminated plywood?” Well, there are things that good quality solid wood can do that engineered wood simply cannot.

First, strength is not the same as durability. And second, there are qualities of real wood that plywood is simply incapable of matching.

Strength of plywood vs solid wood

Have you ever seen a professional weight lifter? They are really strong at certain motions. However, try to make them stretch in ways that they do not usually do. What happens?

They get really stiff or hurt. Plywood is the power lifter of the woods we use. They are really good at holding heavy things.

However, if you knock them against something, those strips of veneer will come unstuck from each other. Plywood gets chipped. The plywood strength is often not compromised, but it starts to not look very good. It gets damaged.

Real wood is durable

However, natural wood is durable and gets better over time. It is elastic. It pops back. It is like a scrappy endurance athlete. It may not be able to lift twice it’s body weight. But it can take the same movements again and again, while staying the same. It is simply more durable.

This is partly due to the wood fibers in solid wood. The strength from these fibers make solid hardwood ideal for cabinets dining tables and dressers.

Hardwood’s unique qualities

Hardwood is beautiful. It simply is. It is solid and dependable, yes, but the first thing you notice when you look at a beautiful piece of Oak furniture is it’s intricate outer layers, its straight wood grain patterns and polish. You can tell that it is high quality.

Because of that stability, it’s beauty will never diminish. Also, hardwood can be shaped into intricate shapes that bring out it’s grain. Plywood by nature cannot do that.

Hardwood has the added bonus of saving you money by being durable. If your furniture never breaks, it never needs to be replaced. It can be repaired and last for generations.

Pricing

The beauty of hardwood is that it ends up being cheaper than plywood in the long run. Since hardwood is more durable you can expect it to last for decades, outlasting your average plywood. While solid wood furniture might be more expensive upfront, it is worth the cost in the long term.

5 disadvantages of plywood

1. The edges of plywood show the induvial ply layers and must be covered or painted
2. Plywood is difficult to refinish and repair if damaged
3. Plywood is not moisture resistant, and can warp or separate if exposed to water or high humidity climates
4. Plywood is made with chemicals and adhesives that can offgas toxic fumes for months if not years
5. Solid wood simply looks better than plywood

Wrapping Up

Simply, both plywood and solid wood furniture have different advantages. Those advantages often complement each other, which is why we use both when making furniture.

Plywood is great for strength, and hardwood is great for durability and beauty.

Simply, an engineered product simply cannot match a product that comes straight from nature.

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What are the disadvantages of particle board?

mattmcowen — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 15:23:28 +0000

The temptation of cheap furniture

We’ve all been there. We need a piece of furniture, don’t want to spend a lot of money, and find ourselves at Ikea or browsing Amazon, pondering a low cost piece of furniture and thinking “I know it’s cheap, but how bad can it be?”

After many years of helping customers design, build and repair furniture of all different grades and types, we are here to answer that question: How bad can it be? … well, honestly… pretty bad! The reality is that low-cost furniture is low in cost because it is made with materials that simply won’t last no matter how careful you are with them. And the primary culprit? Particle board.

Particle board, also known as particleboard, chipboard or low-density fiberboard, is an engineered wood product manufactured from sawmill shavings, wood pieces, Urea-Formaldehyde, synthetic binders and resins used as bonding agents. This mix is exposed to high heat, then pressed and extruded into dimensional shapes.

Veneer is a thin layer of wood or synthetic material that is glued to particle board to give a finished surface. Some veneer can be real wood, while most is made from melamine which is a type of plastic. Plastic veneer can be very realistic with wood texture stamped into the materials and color variations that look very real at first glance. Laminated particle board and melamine particle board are types of veneered particleboard.

The Honest Carpenter gives a very good explanation of the disadvantages of particle board on his YouTube channel.

What are the risks of particle board?

Particle board swells when exposed to moisture

The primary disadvantage of particle board is that exposure to even small amounts of moisture will cause board to swell. Because it is made from wood chips and sawmill shavings, once swelling occurs there is no way to make it return to its original shape. Minor swelling can be unsightly while more significant swelling can cause the veneer layer to warp and crack, cabinet doors to stop closing and shelves to not fit properly.

This photo shows a particle board with melamine veneer cabinet shelf that was damaged by everyday use.

Veneered particle board chips and peels easily

Another issue is that the surface can be easily damaged during normal use. This is because particle boards typically have very thin melamine (plastic) veneer layers that simply break or crack when exposed to everyday use. Furniture corners are especially susceptible to this issue as well as any surface that receives regular use.

Particle board contains 12.4% Formaldehyde

If you are concerned about Volatile Organic Compounds – VOCs – in building materials for your home, it is best to avoid particle board furniture, cabinetry and shelving.

According to the Website My Chemical Free House, most particle board is made with 12.4% Urea-formaldehyde (UF). For this reason manufacturers highly recommend that all exposed surfaces be sealed either by the covering with thin layers of glued veneer or the application of a sealing agent such as a specialized sealing product.

A disadvantage of particle board is that unsealed material will release or “outgas” formaldehyde primarily in the first 2 months of life, and will continue to outgas for up to 5-10 years depending on the thickness of the material and exposed unsealed surface area. It is a good idea to have new particle board products rest in an open space such as a garage or even outside for 2 or more months before bringing it inside the house.

How can you tell if wood is real or particle board?

Look at the end grain of the wood. If you see real wood grain you have real wood. If you see layers of compressed materials you have particle board or plywood. One of the disadvantages of particle board is that this compressed material can separate over time or when exposed to moisture.

Feel the grain of the wood. Real wood has a natural grain pattern that never repeats or has seams. Veneered particle board can be “too perfect” to be real, or lack any texture or grain.

Look for seams or cracks at the edges. Veneer is glued to a particle board base and therefore a seam will always be able to be observed under close inspection. Small cracking is also very common, even on brand new pieces of furniture.

Look at parts that are not covered with wood veneer first. If you have a cabinet or bookshelf, one trick is to look at the small holes where the shelf supports insert into the material. With a paper clip or small knife, scrape the inside of the hole and observe what material comes out. If it looks like sawdust you have particle board material, if you have wood chips or shavings you likely have solid wood or plywood.

Check the price. Particle board furniture is generally lower in cost vs real wood. If the price of a piece of furniture seems to good to be true, it may be.

Particle board vs. solid wood furniture – why we don’t use particle board!

5 reasons we use solid wood instead of veneered particleboard.

Solid wood is durable. Particle board is not. Most particle board furniture ends up in the trash.

Solid wood is water resistant. Spill a glass of water, cup of coffee or other liquid and properly finished wood furniture will not be ruined.

Solid wood can be repaired if damaged. Particle board is almost impossible to repair once it begins to swell or bubble. Real solid wood can be repaired in a variety of ways from a simple re-application of finish to a more in-depth process of sanding, filling and refinishing the damaged area.

Solid wood looks better than veneered particleboard. There is nothing that compares to the color, luster and grain patterns of real solid wood.

Solid wood products will last for generations. Purchasing furniture that is made from quality materials is an investment that will stand the test of time.

Solid wood furniture made in the USA

At Solid Custom Heirlooms we think that handmade wood furniture should be accessible to anyone. Whether you want a simple platform bed for your queen size mattress or a elaborate canopy bed, we are here to help. Our goal is to offer a wide variety of furniture hand made from high quality American hardwood. If you don’t see what you are looking for, or want to talk more about achieving a specific look or type of bed, please contact us and we would love to help!

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Cherry vs. Maple wood color

mattmcowen — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 00:27:27 +0000

cherry vs maple wood color

Comparing Cherry vs. Maple color tones

At Solid Custom Heirlooms we are privileged to build furniture from the finest raw materials in the world: Appalachian grown hardwoods. All of our lumber, including Cherry and Maple, is harvested from the United States and in many cases comes from mills within a short drive from our shop. Our 7 wood choices each have their own distinct color and grain pattern that impart a distinct character to the finished piece of furniture.

With so many great options, choosing the wood species that is right for your décor takes some thought. We do our best to show photos of our furniture in a wide variety of wood options and stain choices, as well as offer wood samples so that you can see, touch and feel your options at home.

Is Cherry or Maple the best?

Cherry and Maple wood are both popular domestic hardwoods when looking for a light wood color, warm overtones and a clear straight grain. Both species are high quality furniture hardwoods that are known to be smooth when finished and will last for generations. Cherry and Maple each have their own unique grain patterns and characteristics. Let’s dive into the Cherry vs Maple discussion to find out what wood is best for your project!

Cherry wood characteristics

Cherry is darker in color than Maple, featuring red to brown coloration that increases over time.

Cherry is a premium furniture-grade American hardwood valued for its deep reddish brown hues, smooth grain pattern and buttery-smooth finished surface. Cherry comes from the American Black Cherry tree, Prunus Serotina, that grows primarily in the Appalachian Forest region of the United States.

Cherry wood (not cherrywood) has long been one of the most distinctly American hardwoods used in furniture making, cabinetry, flooring and even musical instruments. Vintage Early American, Amish and Shaker furniture were often made from Cherry wood.

How can you tell if wood is Cherry?

The best way to identify Cherry wood is color. Cherry wood typically has a reddish-brown color that darkens over time as it is exposed to light. The heartwood (the darker, inner part of the tree) is usually a deeper reddish-brown than the sapwood (the lighter, outer part of the tree).

Another good way to identify Cherry wood is the grain. Cherry wood has a distinct, fine grain pattern that is often described as “peppered” in appearance. The grain is usually straight, but can also be wavy or curly in some pieces.

Cherry wood darkens over time

The color of Cherry wood is unique in that it darkens over time – starting out a light pink color and aging to a darker red to brown color. This color transition is a natural process that is a result of exposure to sunlight. The process starts immediately after the lumber receives its final sanding and finish and can take 6 to 12 months to complete.

Is Cherry a toxic wood?

Cherry is non-toxic and food safe which makes it very popular for cutting boards and kitchen accessories. Cherry is also popular for smoking meats! Please note that some woodworkers find Cherry wood sawdust to be a minor irritant.

Cherry furniture with wood stain

Cherry stains nicely as the warm base tones of the wood enhance almost any stain color. Solid Custom Heirlooms offers a Cherry Stain Guide that shows how different stain colors look on Cherry wood.

One our our favorite Cherry wood stains is Dark Walnut, which gives a smooth, warm color that is very close in color to natural Walnut wood. If you are looking for a very consistent grain pattern with Walnut color this can be a very good option.

Maple wood characteristics

Maple is an exceptionally strong hardwood known for its light cream color, subtle grain pattern and smooth finish. Maple wood is very heavy, dense and durable, well known to resist scratching from daily use. Maple is white to yellow in color, sometimes with darker grey or brown streaks.

Furniture makers typically use hard maple wood, Acer saccharum, which is also known as Rock Maple, Hard Rock Maple or Sugar Maple when in tree form. Yes, the same maple trees used for lumber also produce the sap that makes maple syrup!

Unlike other furniture hardwoods, the light, creamy colors of Maple come from the sapwood of the tree rather than the heartwood which is darker in color. Most Maple wood furniture is made from the lighter colored Maple sapwood.

Maple is a very durable wood!

Maple is one of the hardest and most durable American hardwood species. In addition to furniture and cabinetry, Maple lumber has such tightly knit grain that it has long been prized for gyms, dance floors, baseball bats, bowling alleys, butcher blocks and other applications where a super-hard surface is desired.

Does Maple change color over time?

All hardwood darkens over time and maple is no exception. While the transformation is not as dramatic as Cherry, Maple does darken from a very light creamy color to a deeper honey color in about 6-12 months.

The best stain colors for maple wood

Maple takes all types of stain very evenly and because of its light, neutral base tones, will let the colors of the stain show through. For a true gray, blue or red stain, Maple wood is the ideal choice. Solid Custom Heirlooms offers a Maple stain guide that shows how different stain colors look when applied to the wood.

Maple wood samples with gray stain options

How to decide between Cherry and Maple furniture?

How to choose between Cherry vs. Maple wood furniture? After years of working with both materials here are our suggestions.

Maple wood is heavier and more durable than Cherry. If your new furniture is going to receive extremely heavy use, such as a desktop for children, Maple wood will provide the maximum durability.

Maple wood is more neutral in color than Cherry. If you are decorating with neutrals, Maple’s low key creamy, honey tones will be a good fit.

Cherry wood has more natural warmth of color vs. Maple. Cherry’s rich red to brown coloration and warm tones will always stand out in a room.

Maple wood is best for gray, black and blue stains. Because of its almost white color, Maple does not alter the color of a applied stain finish. When customers ask for a true gray color we always suggest a Maple wood base.

Cherry darkens in color in time more than Maple. While all natural hardwood darkens over time, Cherry will be the most dramatic change, starting with light pink tones and aging to a rich red-brown color, whereas Maple will yellow slightly to a honey color over time.

Both Cherry and Maple are premium American grown furniture hardwoods and are very similar in cost.

American Hardwood Furniture from Solid Custom Heirlooms

At Solid Custom Heirlooms we think Cherry and Maple are both excellent choices. Our goal is to offer a wide variety of furniture designs that work well with any of the hardwoods that we offer. If you don’t see what you are looking for, or want to talk more about achieving a specific look or wood color, please contact us and we would be glad to discuss your ideas in detail.

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Where can I find furniture not made in China?

mattmcowen — Sat, 25 Feb 2023 03:42:33 +0000

Where can I buy furniture not made in China?

The vast majority of indoor and outdoor furniture found online and in Big Box furniture stores is made in China. Constructed from from low-cost particle board and plastic based veneers, Chinese made furniture can look good at first glance but rarely lasts over time.

What makes low cost furniture fall apart?

At Solid Custom Heirlooms we receive a lot of calls and emails from people who purchased particle board furniture from big box stores such as IKEA, Home Depot or Costco asking if we can help them repair peeling surfaces, chipped corners or bubbled veneer.

Particle board and veneer furniture is very difficult to repair because once a piece of particle board starts to expand due to exposure to moisture or the veneer starts to pull away from the core, there is simply no way for a consumer or even an experienced furniture repair company to make that material go back to its original form. Fortunately, some of these stores have a very generous return policy!

As you can see in this photo of an almost brand-new IKEA desk, the thin veneer can quickly chip away from the particle board base with even the most basic use.

Chipped IKEA veneer desk

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Chipped IKEA veneer desk

Alternatives to Chinese made furniture

After a bad experience with cheap furniture many people are ready to purchase furniture built from high quality materials. But where to start? What if you care about how and where your furniture is made? In this age of mega-retailers, where can you buy furniture that is not made in China? Are there still furniture brands that are made in USA?

Not all furniture is made in China! With a little digging shoppers can find a wide variety of American furniture brands that take pride in producing premium furniture with quality natural materials. Some are larger furniture stores that offer a set catalog. Others are smaller companies and craftspeople that offer custom furniture design and a wide range of options such as wood choice, stains and finish.

Why buy real wood furniture made in the USA?

The best furniture in the world is made from solid American hardwood. There is nothing that can compare to the rich natural beauty of American hardwood and craftsmanship of traditional woodworking techniques

For example, this 10 drawer dresser with cut-out drawer pulls is made from solid American Walnut.

Furniture crafted from real American hardwood will last for generations

- Quality American hardwood looks better as it ages
- Solid wood does not chip, bubble or flake over time
- If damaged, solid wood can be sanded and refinished over time
- There are a wide variety of species including Ash, Cherry, Maple, Oak and Walnut available to match any décor

Solid hardwood is healthy

- With the right finish, solid wood furniture can be low VOC or even no VOC
- Many people believe sleeping on a solid wood bed has grounding and healing properties
- Chinese-made particle board furniture can off-gas smelly chemicals for months or years

Buying American made furniture supports the USA

- North American hardwoods are a renewable resource that grows abundantly in the United States
- Made in the USA furniture employs a wide range of American workers including Loggers, Truckers, Mill Operators as well as the men and women who design, craft, finish and ship furniture
- Buying American furniture supports our local economy
- Made in the USA furniture has a low economic impact as raw materials and finished furniture pieces do not need to be shipped to and from from overseas

Solid Oak furniture made in the USA

Oak is one of the most popular – and most distinctly American – hardwoods used in furniture. Both Red and White Oak wood species are abundant in the Appalachian region of the United States and as a result have been used for fine furniture for centuries. Oak is a strong, solid wood with a bold grain pattern that is equally suited to traditional and contemporary furniture.

Where can I find real wood furniture made in the USA?

Solid Custom Heirlooms is a 3-generation strong family business based in the small town of Vinton Ohio and dedicated to crafting fine made in the USA furniture from locally sourced hardwoods. The hardwood that is used in our furniture is sourced exclusively from the Appalachian region of the United States. We believe “Solid is Best” and use solid wood wherever possible in our designs.

We take pride in working with every customer to design and build furniture that best meets their needs. We gladly accept custom orders and discuss each piece of furniture with our customers. If you see furniture on our website and have an idea on how to customize it to make it best for you – please don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your ideas.

The post Where can I find furniture not made in China? appeared first on Solid Custom Heirlooms.

All about handmade wood bed frames

mattmcowen — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 01:52:08 +0000

Handmade wood bed frames

For thousands of years, humans have handmade wood bed frames. From simple wood structures to elaborate canopy beds fit for a Queen, wood has long been the material of choice for bedroom furniture because it is sturdy, long lasting and beautiful. But is bedroom furniture crafted by hand still the best choice for modern beds? We’re here to find out!

This article will review the most common questions people ask when shopping for a new wooden bed frame, covering the best materials, types of beds and what to look for when buying a handmade wood bed.

Lets start with the basics:

What is a handmade wood bed frame?

A bed frame is a type of furniture that supports a mattress and/or box spring, typically made from wood, metal or a variety of other materials.

Most bed frames are constructed from one of 3 basic types of wood: hardwood, the most solid and long lasting choice, softwood, economical but less sturdy, or engineered wood, a composite of wood scraps, chemical glues and veneers.

A handmade wood bed frame is constructed by hand, either by a single master craftsman, in a small factory or sometimes by a “do it yourselfer” aka a DIY wood bed frame. The quality of handmade furniture is unsurpassed by most other options, and the fact that it takes time and effort to create such pieces means that you’ll never find something exactly like it again.

What is the best wood for handmade beds?

When it comes to high quality wood bedroom furniture its important to understand the raw materials used. When choosing a new bed, look closely at the type and country of origin of the wood to make sure it is of the highest quality possible. There are three main types of wood used in furniture-making: hardwoods, softwoods and engineered woods.

What is the best wood for handmade beds?

White Oak is characterized by its light color and prominent rays, giving it a subtle yet attractive grain pattern. It’s also known for its strength and durability, making it an ideal choice for furniture. White Oak has been used to make furniture for centuries, and is still a popular choice today.

Compared to Red Oak, White Oak is slightly denser and thus heavier, but its light color makes it a great choice for any bedroom décor. It’s also easy to maintain since it can be sanded down and stained easily. Its natural resistance to moisture makes it a great addition to humid areas.

Red Oak is one of the most widely used species of hardwood in North America. Red Oak is similar in appearance to White Oak but has a darker color and coarser grain pattern. The heartwood of Red Oak is usually reddish-brown, while the sapwood tends to be lighter and more yellow.

Red Oak is slightly less dense than white oak but still very durable. It’s commonly used for furniture, flooring, and other woodworking projects. It takes stain easily and is also often used to make cabinets and furniture with a nice finish. Red Oak is resistant to moisture, making it suitable for high-humidity areas where other woods may be prone to rot or cracking.

Cherry wood is a type of hardwood with a reddish hue and straight, tight grain. It is typically used in furniture making, cabinetry, and flooring due to its structural strength and natural beauty. Cherry wood has a smooth finish that can be stained or left in its natural state, depending on the desired look.

Cherry’s color darkens with age and exposure to sunlight, giving it a unique patina that adds warmth and character to any space. It is also known for its strength and durability, making it a popular choice for both commercial and residential applications.

Maple is a hardwood known for its warm color and tight grain pattern. It is typically light in color, ranging from white to pale yellow with occasional red and brown streaks. Maple wood is popularly used for cabinet making, furniture, flooring, and other projects due to its strength, durability, and attractive appearance.

Maple features a unique combination of strength and shock resistance, making it a popular choice for cabinets, furniture, and even some musical instruments. Maple wood is easy to work with using both hand and power tools. With its attractive grain pattern, maple wood is an excellent choice for creating quality pieces that will last for years.

Ash wood is a light to medium-brown in color with a straight or slightly wavy grain pattern. It is known for its strength and shock resistance, making it an ideal choice for sports equipment such as baseball bats, oars, and tool handles.

Ash is easily worked with both hand and power tools and can be stained or painted. It is also a great option for furniture and cabinets, as it takes finish well and gives the finished piece an attractive look.

Walnut wood is a popular hardwood option that has a rich, dark color. It is known for its strength and stability and is often used in furniture making.

Walnut has an excellent grain pattern that adds to the beauty of any finished piece. Walnut resists rot and decay better than many other types of wood, making it an ideal choice for outdoor furniture or pieces that will be exposed to moisture. Walnut is also known for its shock resistance, ensuring long-lasting durability and reliability.

Softwood is an affordable choice for DIY furniture

Typically used for residential and commercial building construction, Softwoods are cheaper and easier to work with than hardwoods and make up over 80% of all timber produced globally. Species such as such a Pine and Douglas Fir are available at low cost at most big box construction stores and lumberyards in common dimensional lumber sizes.

Most construction grade softwood is used for framing homes and commercial buildings, decks, fences and other types of general construct where the wood is not seen.

If you want to try your hand at your first “Do It Yourself (DIY)” bed or are building a piece of furniture for a place such as a college dorm where low price is more important than looks, Softwood can be an affordable choice for a wooden bed frame. The easiest to build DIY platform bed is likely made from Pine or Fir.

But, if you would like a handmade wood bed frame that will stay strong for years to come and look good there are other there are other considerations. Softwood can be prone to warping and squeaking over time due to changes in air humidity. Softwood can loose its ability to “hold” a nail or screw, again contributing to the potential for a bed made from softwood to squeak and creak as it is used. To avoid this, opt for a hardwood frame that is both strong and beautiful. Hardwoods such as Cherry, Maple and Walnut will provide lasting support and look great in the long run.

Avoid engineered wood for long lasting furniture

Engineered wood is a class of manufactured products made from a combination of hardwood and softwood mixed together with adhesives, preservatives and other chemical bonding agents. Often using waste from sawmills, the mix is heated and compressed to produce dimensional lumber.

The two most common types of engineered wood used in furniture are Particle Board and Plywood.

Particle board in furniture is often seen as a cheaper, less substantial alternative to solid wood. Commonly found at Ikea and other big box stores, particle board furniture looks very nice on the showroom floor but rarely stands the test of time because the finished surface veneer easily chips, warps and bubbles, especially when exposed to moisture. Make sure the bed frame you select is made with high-quality materials that can stand up to everyday use. Check for strong joinery and sealed edges, and make sure any moving parts are well lubricated.

Plywood furniture can be surprisingly strong – but only if well constructed. When looking for plywood furniture, look for pieces made from thicker sheets of quality plywood and check the edges to make sure they are sealed properly with glue and screws. Avoid any pieces that list “veneer” in the description; these options are usually less durable. Because of its good strength-to-weight ratio, plywood is well suited for part of furniture that is not seen on a regular basis by the user, such drawer bottoms in and cabinet backs.

Disadvantages of metal beds

While metal beds tend to be more affordable than wooden beds, metal beds and metal bed frames lack the comfort and durability of wood. Additionally, metal frames and legs are more likely to rust, squeak, break or get damaged in general than wooden ones are.

The biggest disadvantage of metal bed frames is that they’re not as aesthetically pleasing as wooden ones – in fact, many people say that metal is just plain ugly.

Types of Handmade Beds

Handmade wood bed frames come in many different shapes and sizes, from a traditional poster bed to a modern luxury bed. Each type of bed frame has its own unique features and benefits.

Platform beds are a bed frame that does not use box springs or a separate foundation. Instead, the mattress rests directly on a solid flat surface typically wooden slats. This makes platform beds great for smaller rooms since they take up less room than traditional bed frames with box springs and foundations. Platform beds come in many different styles and materials, so you can find one that fits your personal style. With a platform bed, you can enjoy a simple, modern look with plenty of comfort and support.

Canopy beds are a traditional style of bed that features four tall posts at each corner, with a canopy frame above the bed. Drapes, curtains, or other fabric are often added for extra style and to create a romantic atmosphere. Canopy beds come in a variety of different materials and styles; some are designed for more traditional settings while others feature a modern look.

Storage beds are a great choice if you are looking for added storage capacity in the bedroom. Storage beds feature drawers, compartments, and other hidden storage areas within the frame of the bed. This is perfect for storing out-of-season clothing, blankets and sheets, or any other items that need to be tucked away discreetly.

Bunk beds are a great space-saving option for both children and adult bedrooms. These beds feature two stacked sleeping areas, usually connected by one vertical support frame and a ladder or stairs. They offer plenty of room for two people to sleep and also provide ample storage capacity underneath. Many bunk beds also come with additional features such as built-in desks and shelving units, making them even more versatile. Bunk beds are a great way to make the most of a smaller bedroom.

A loft bed is a type of bed that features an elevated sleeping area and usually provides room underneath for other uses, such as a seating area or storage. Loft beds can typically be found in children’s bedrooms, dormitories and apartments, providing extra living space to those who are limited on square footage. The elevated sleeping area provides a unique and creative solution to making the most of a limited area. Loft beds typically come with ladders or stairs to access the elevated sleeping area.

Trundle beds are a type of bed with an extra mattress frame that fits beneath a regular-sized bed. This space-saving solution is perfect for when guests come over and need additional sleeping capacity. The trundle bed can be pulled out from underneath the primary bed when needed, then pushed back in to save room when not in use. Some trundle beds also have a mechanism that raises the lower mattress to the height of the upper mattress to make one large bed.

What to look for when buying a quality handmade wood bed frame

Materials make the difference

First, look for a bed frame that is made from solid hardwood such as Oak, Cherry or Maple. Make sure the joinery (the way the pieces of wood fit together) is precise and secure; this will ensure the bed frame’s longevity and structural integrity.

Avoid any pieces with glue or nails that don’t look like part of the design. Choose hardware that is made from durable materials such as stainless steel or brass. These materials will stand up to regular use without corroding and will look better for longer.

Beds made in the USA are the best

The best handmade beds are made in the USA with strong materials that will stand the test of time. The beds are crafted with care by artisans using hardwood and quality hardware to ensure a long lasting piece of furniture.

Pay attention to wood stain

Wood stain is a liquid finish that penetrates wood to give it a translucent color. Unlike paint that stays on the top of a surface, wood stain goes deep into the pores of the wood ensuring a subtle, long lasting color.

Real hardwood can be stained to create a wide array of colors from soft and subdued to bright and bold. Each type of hardwood will take stain colors in different ways, so make sure you discuss colors with your furniture builder and/or obtain samples of the finished wood before the stain is applied.

When it comes to color, make sure that you understand exactly what you are buying. Many lower cost softwoods and engineered woods can be stained or painted to make a good copy of genuine hardwood at first glance, whereas unlike real hardwood, these colors and finishes may fade, chip, warp or crack over time.

Understanding furniture finish

Furniture Finish is the last coat of product applied before the piece is complete. Unlike stain which colors the wood, the finish coat is designed to protect wood furniture from water, sunlight and everyday use. Two types of finish are most popular in the marketplace:

Penetrating Oils, also known as Drying Oils, including Tung Oil, Boiled Linseed Oil and Danish Oil, go deep into the pores of the wood to provide a long lasting, durable finish. Oil finish is easily repaired by sanding and adding additional oil to the repair area. Penetrating oils typically produce a rich, warm color and a matte finish. A brighter gloss can be added to an oil base with high quality furniture wax.

Tung Oil is a particularly good choice as it is a 100% natural product that has been used for centuries in applications as diverse as sealing boats to stonework. Tung Oil is low VOC and non toxic.

Polyurethane is a plastic product and does not penetrate the grain of the wood when applied. Polyurethane sits on top of the finished wood surface and dries very hard. Polyurethane is most often used for a gloss finish but is also offered in semi-gloss and matte finishes. Because it is so hard, Polyurethane is excellent for high traffic surfaces such as hardwood flooring, desks and tabletops. However, if damaged Polyurethane is difficult and time intensive to repair.

Understanding veneer

Have you ever had the finish of a piece of furniture chip or crack, only to find mealy particle board underneath instead of real wood? What you are looking at is a cracked piece of veneer.

Veneer is a very thin piece of wood, plastic laminate or other manufactured material that is glued to a panel of lower cost fiberboard, particleboard or plywood to make it look like solid wood. Veneer is typically found on lower cost furniture because real wood is not used. There are several commonly used types of veneer that you should be aware of when shopping for furniture and other wood products.

Wood veneer is very thin slice of wood, usually 1/42 of an inch thick. Because real wood is used, the look and feel will be close to a piece of solid lumber. Real wood veneer create a large amount of material from the use of a single log, making them more environmentally-friendly and affordable.

The downside of wood veneer is that that thing material is fragile and prone to crack when exposed to heat, sunlight or moisture. The thin material is very hard to repair and nearly impossible to sand down to remove accidental damage to the furniture.

Plastic Laminate veneer is a lower cost product manufactured by pressing together layers of flat paper and plastic resins under high pressure and then bonded to fiberboard or plywood. The wood grain and color you see are not wood at all! Rather it is man made copy of wood. One advantage of this product is that the wood grain is “perfect” with no natural imperfections or character.

Most often found in retail stored and office furniture, High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) is constructed of multiple layers bonded together under high pressure and heat, making the product very strong. Low-pressure laminate is more widely known as Melamine. Melamine is constructed of a single layer bonded to the base material and is known to de laminate over time.

The primary downside of any type Plastic Laminate veneer is that its not a natural product. Furthermore the very thin plastic later is almost impossible to repair. Ever had a piece of Ikea furniture that couldn’t be fixed?

How thick should wood be for a bed frame?

When shopping for a new bed frame, take a close look at the quality and thickness of the material used, especially the wood used on the base frame, wood slats and headboard. Wood used for a bed frame should be at least 1.5 inches thick if not larger. This thickness ensures that the bed frame is strong enough to hold up a mattress and support your weight while still being light enough to move around as needed. Thicker wood provides more support, helps reduce squeaking and makes it easier to attach hardware if necessary.

Thick wood bed frames are also in style! The “chunky” wooden bed frame has an oversize look that makes sense with modern beds, queen size mattresses and oversized headboard.

Where can I buy a handmade wood bed frame?

Handcrafted wood bed frames can be purchased from local furniture stores, artisan craft markets, or online retailers such as Solid Custom Heirlooms. Many of these products are made with high-quality materials and offer a variety of customization options so you can get exactly what you want. If you’re looking for something truly unique and special, check out Etsy or other websites that specialize in handmade wood furniture.

Are solid wood beds better? The top 10 reasons to buy real wooden bed frames

1. Authenticity: buying a bed frame made from real wood means that you will sleep soundly knowing you made the solid choice.
2. Durability: handmade wood beds constructed with care and expert craftsmanship will always outlast mass-produced products.
3. Quality: A handmade bed frame displays an attention to detail that can’t be found elsewhere, as each piece of wood is carefully selected, sanded, and finished to perfection.
4. Customization: working with a craftsman to design and build a bed will give you a wide selection of options not available from a mass-market product.
5. Custom Bed Sizing: whether you have a California King, Twin or something in-between, a custom bed frame will be sure to match your needs.
6. Rock solid construction: let your kids jump with confidence!
7. No Squeaks or Creaks! Rest easy in a bed that is made for you.
8. Better sleep: many people report that they sleep better on on a wood bed frame.
9. Longevity: hand made bed frames last for generations
10. Support American craftspeople: the men and women who work hard to design, build and finish your bed thank you!

Solid wood bed frames made in the USA

At Solid Custom Heirlooms we think that handmade wood beds should be accessible to anyone. Whether you want a simple platform bed for your Queen size mattress or a elaborate California King luxury bed, we are here to help. Our goal is to offer a wide variety of beds hand made from high quality American hardwood. If you don’t see what you are looking for, or want to talk more about achieving a specific look or type of bed, please contact us and we would love to help you create your dream bed!

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