Traditional Amish furniture solid wood choices range from red oak, quarter sawn white oak, cherry, maple, hickory, cedar, and walnut. Often, there are regional preferences regarding wood choices due to availability in different parts of the country. Ultimately, the choice of wood used for Amish furniture pieces is dependent on the customers design, budget, functionality, and durability of the various wood choices. Cherry wood and walnut are usually a higher price and less popular than an oak furniture piece due to price and the availability of the wood. Cedar wood used in Amish furniture craftsmanship is renowned for its functionality. Let’s compare the characteristics of Cherry wood in Amish furniture along with Cedar and Walnut.
What are the distinctive qualities and aesthetic characteristics of Cherry wood when used in Amish furniture?
The distinctive color of Cherry wood in Amish furniture is a rich reddish-brown color. One fascinating characteristic of Cherry wood in Amish furniture is that it deepens over time as it is exposed to light further enhancing its natural beauty. This characteristic of Cherry wood in Amish furniture makes it stand out when compared to other wood choices. Cherry wood in Amish furniture has a straight and smooth grain and it is very durable, but not as durable as oak or maple. Since Cherry wood is easy to work with and it finishes well, it is regarded as a top wood choice for Amish furniture craftsmanship.
How does the use of Cedar contribute to the durability and scent of Amish furniture?
Contributing a wonderful scent as well as longevity, Cedar wood in Amish furniture craftsmanship is a popular choice. The natural oils that contribute to the distinctive scent of Cedar wood also offer other benefits such as pest and fungi deterrent. Additionally, Cedar wood’s natural oils can neutralize and absorb odors. This deterrent heavily contributes to the durability of Cedar wood in Amish furniture craftsmanship. With its unique properties, Cedar wood is often used for storage pieces, chests, and closets.
What are the unique features and advantages of incorporating Walnut wood into Amish furniture designs?
Walnut and its role in Amish furniture includes distinctive characteristics such as elegance, longevity, and prestige. Walnut pieces are typically higher in price, but these pieces are built to last for generations. Prestigious and heirloom quality, Walnut Amish furniture pieces often showcase the finest Amish craftsmanship techniques with unique carvings and top-quality finishes. The comparison of Cedar wood and Walnut in Amish furniture comes down to the look and functionality of the pieces. Cedar wood is best used for pieces that will utilize the odor neutralizing properties of cedar, while Walnut pieces are usually purchased for their beauty and to make a statement in a room. Walnut is also resistant to warping and splitting making it a highly durable wood choice for Amish furniture. Cedar wood in Amish furniture craftsmanship is typically pale yellow to light brown in color whereas Walnut has a rich dark brown color with some reddish tones.