One of the most common questions we hear at Refined Rustic Furniture is: "What is the best wood to use for my particular piece?" While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, we've found that certain hardwoods consistently stand out for table construction. Here's our expert guide to selecting the perfect wood for your table project.

The Top Three Contenders

Walnut

The Most Popular Choice

• Prized for its dramatic dark/light variations

• Outstanding balance of hardness and workability

• Perfect for dimensional lumber construction

• Best thickness: 1" to 2" boards

• Ideal for statement pieces

• Natural beauty requires minimal enhancement

Cherry

The Classic Choice

• Favored by traditional furniture makers

• Excellent staining properties

• Features distinctive black marbling

• Superior grain patterns

• Ideal for larger projects like:

  • Boardroom tables

  • Extended dining tables

• Beautiful natural aging process

• Takes finish exceptionally well

Hickory

The Durability Champion

• Hardest of the three popular choices

• Features unique characteristics:

  • Ambrosia patterns

  • Bear claw marks

  • Distinctive natural designs

• Nearly indestructible when properly joined

• Exceptional resistance to:

  • Denting

  • Chipping

  • Daily wear

• Requires extra effort in crafting

• Worth the additional work for lifetime durability

Working with Premium Hardwoods

Selection Tips

• Look for straight, flat pieces

• Minimize boards with twists

• Check for consistent grain patterns

• Consider wood movement characteristics

• Examine for defects or irregularities

Thickness Considerations

• 1" boards: Suitable for most projects

• 2" boards: Ideal for premium tables

• Over 2": Requires specialized techniques

• Consider final application when choosing thickness

The Joy of Selection

We love when clients participate in the wood selection process. There's something special about:

• Hunting through stacks of lumber

• Finding perfectly matched pieces

• Discovering unique grain patterns

• Arranging boards for optimal appearance

• Selecting live edge pieces for borders

Mixing Woods

Don't feel limited to a single species! Some of our most striking pieces combine different woods for dramatic effect. Popular combinations include:

• Walnut with Hickory for contrast

• Cherry with lighter woods for accent

• Mixed species borders and inlays

Beyond the Big Three

While Walnut, Cherry, and Hickory lead in popularity, other excellent options include:

• Maple: Clean, bright appearance

• Beech: Tight, consistent grain

• Oak: Traditional and sturdy

Making Your Selection

When choosing wood for your table, consider:

1. Intended use and location

2. Desired maintenance level

3. Color preferences

4. Budget considerations

5. Design style

6. Expected lifespan

Remember: The best wood choice is one that matches your specific needs while bringing joy every time you look at it.

Visit our showroom to experience these beautiful hardwoods in person. Our craftsmen are always happy to help you select the perfect wood for your project.

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