I'm planning to create a bedroom furniture set for my partner and me. I really love black walnut and want to use it with a natural finish, but my partner just wants something dark. I'm open to alternatives that are naturally dark woods, though they don't have to match black walnut perfectly. It's been a while since I've made a significant piece of furniture, so I'm curious about what hardwoods are popular these days and if anyone has suggestions or tips. I'm also considering just going with black walnut regardless!
3 Answers
Cherry is a fantastic option! It ages beautifully into a deep reddish-brown over time, providing a rich color without too much fuss. Plus, it's pretty easy to work with, making it a solid choice for your project.
If you really love walnut, I'd say stick with it! Just a heads-up though, walnut will lighten a bit as it ages, so the final color will be somewhat different than what you see at the lumberyard. I've built older pieces that turned into a gorgeous rich honey shade.
Butternut could be cool too! It's lighter than walnut and has a similar grain style. Just keep in mind it's a bit softer, which could make it easier to work with depending on your tools.