Walnut--Where does it come from?
What is it? - Walnut is a rich, dark hardwood known for its deep brown to purplish black color and straight grain, with occasional waves or curls. Native to North America and Europe, walnut is highly prized for its strength and beauty, making it a staple in the furniture-making and cabinet-making industries. I source most of my walnut from RAW Heartwood in West Chicago, IL. They’re excellent about quality and drying, which helps pieces last for decades. Wood is a global material; I include origin so you can see what’s local and what’s imported.
Why I love working with it
I adore walnut for its elegant, deep tones and versatility. The richness of the wood gives a luxurious feel to any project, whether it’s a piece of furniture or a custom cutting board. Its ability to polish to a high sheen while retaining its natural warmth is why it is such a favorite in high-end woodworking. It cuts cleanly, glues well, and finishes to a silky sheen—an elegant backdrop that makes kitchens and living spaces feel warm and refined.
Key traits
Color - Rich, dark brown to purplish-black heartwood
Grain - Straight grain with occasional waves or curls
Hardness - Medium hardness and shock resistance
Workability- Excellent for carving, turning, and fine joinery
Durability - Highly durable and resistant to wear, making it ideal for heirloom pieces.
Care tips
To preserve the rich color of walnut, clean it with a soft cloth and avoid harsh cleaning products. Regularly apply a protective wax or oil to maintain its finish. Avoid placing walnut pieces in direct sunlight for extended periods to prevent fading.
Avoid soaking; wipe dry after washing
Refresh cutting and serving pieces with food-safe mineral oil as needed
Keep out of prolonged direct sunlight to minimize color shift
Featured in our shop - At 86 Custom Woodworking, walnut is a premium wood featured in our range.
End-grain cutting boards, serving boards, charcuterie trays, and custom furniture accents.
Local & shipping
Handmade in West Chicago, IL; shipping nationwide.
FAQ
Is walnut food-safe for cutting boards? Yes—once finished with a food-safe oil or conditioner, it’s excellent for everyday use.
End-grain or edge-grain for walnut? End grain reveals the grain. End-grain is gentler on knives and hides marks; edge-grain is lighter and shows longer grain lines—both are great.
Will the walnut change color over time? It can lighten slightly from deep chocolate to a mellow, golden-brown with exposure to light.
