What is Cherry Wood?

Cherry wood comes from the cherry fruit tree. It is a hardwood, and it is famed for its durability and beautiful color.

Cherry wood comes in a variety of colors, including yellow, white, red and dark brown. The darker heartwood adds a touch of elegance to its surroundings, while lighter versions are perfect for furniture. It is extremely heavy and durable, which is one reason that colonial carpenters used it for cabinets and furniture. Cherry wood has a smooth, satiny grain that can be enhanced with the application of stain. It steams easily, which makes it ideal for use in curved projects, such as making boats and furniture. It does contract and expand slightly as the humidity of its locations changes. Cherry wood is highly prized by woodworkers because of its rich color, smooth grain and flexibility. It is frequently used in toys, caskets, paneling, furniture and flooring. Cherry wood costs less than many other hardwoods, which makes it even more attractive for carpenters and woodworkers.