Cherry
Cherry, scientifically known as Prunus serotina, is a hardwood species native to North America. It is highly valued for its rich color, fine grain, and versatility in woodworking.
Appearance and Characteristics
Cherry wood is known for its warm, reddish-brown color, which deepens and matures with age and exposure to light. The wood typically features a fine, straight grain, although it can occasionally exhibit a wavy or curly grain pattern. Cherry is moderately heavy, typically weighing around 3.2 to 3.5 pounds per board foot (727 to 794 kilograms per cubic meter).
Workability
Cherry is prized by woodworkers for its exceptional workability. It cuts, sands, and shapes well, making it a favorite for a range of woodworking projects. The wood stains and finishes beautifully, and its fine grain readily accepts a variety of finishes, from natural to deep red-brown hues.
Uses in Woodworking
Cherry wood is highly versatile and finds applications in various woodworking projects, including:
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Furniture: Cherry is a popular choice for crafting fine furniture, including tables, chairs, cabinets, and dressers. Its rich color and fine grain add elegance to furniture designs.
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Cabinetry: It is frequently used in cabinetry, especially for kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities, where its warm tones create a welcoming ambiance.
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Architectural Millwork: Cherry is employed in architectural millwork, including moldings, trim, and interior paneling, adding a touch of sophistication to interior spaces.
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Fine Woodworking: Woodworkers use Cherry for intricate and decorative items such as inlays, turnings, and carvings due to its workability and aesthetic appeal.
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Woodturning: Cherry is a favored wood for woodturning. Its workability, fine grain, and attractive color make it an excellent choice for crafting bowls, spindles, and various turned items.
Durability
Cherry wood exhibits good durability:
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Indoor Use: Cherry is well-suited for indoor applications. It is resistant to wear and can withstand moisture fluctuations, making it suitable for furniture, cabinetry, and fine woodworking projects.
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Outdoor Use: Cherry is not recommended for outdoor applications, as it is not naturally resistant to the elements, and prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to decay and discoloration.
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Bug/Insect and Rot Resistance: Cherry is not inherently resistant to insects and decay, but proper finishing and maintenance can enhance its performance in indoor applications.
VARIATIONS AND OPTIONS
All lumber now ships surfaced on 2 sides, and ripped on 1 edge at a minimum. Surfacing is done to a 1/16th over nominal (+- .030). Also the option for a rip to width is now available for a premium price. Ripping is done on an industrial straight line/gang rip machine. While the rip will be consistent end to end, the fence may not always end up in the same spot between orders. Rip widths will be within 1/8th of an inch of stated widths.
4/4 will be surfaced to 13/16ths. 5/4 will be surfaced to 1 and 1/16th. 6/4 6/4 will be surfaced to 1 and 5/16ths. 8/4 will be surfaced to 1 and 13/16ths. 10/4 will be surfaced to 2 and 5/16ths. 16/4 will be surfaced to 2 and 13/16ths.