Walnut plywood has been a staple in woodworking, especially furniture making, dating back to pre-colonial England. Early American furniture was often crafted from black walnut, a variety native to America, which replaced oak as the go-to wood choice.
Walnut stands out as the only dark-colored domestic hardwood, making it more affordable than other dark woods. While American Willow has similar hues, walnut is still the best option for woodworkers seeking dark wood at a reasonable price.
Quality vs. Cost
The price of walnut plywood typically ranges from $7.99 to $12.99 per board foot, depending on the quantity and supplier. Bulk buyers often enjoy lower prices, making it cost-effective for large furniture makers who keep significant stock on hand.
Color and Durability
Walnut is known for its fine, mostly straight grain, with occasional waves or curls. Its heartwood is dark chocolate-colored, while the sapwood offers a lighter caramel tone. Finished projects have a smooth, high-luster surface.
Highly durable, walnut is resistant to scratches and dents, even outperforming red oak in this regard. Over time, walnut naturally lightens, but furniture makers often apply stains to maintain its rich tone and even out the sapwood’s color.
Availability and Cost Factors
The black walnut tree, native to the eastern U.S., matures slowly, reaching heights of up to 150 feet and diameters of 8 feet after 150 years. Due to its rarity and long growth period, walnut plywood is more expensive compared to other hardwoods. As a result, walnut is often used as a veneer, either on lower-cost woods or as a sheet of plywood, while maintaining its durability and high-end appearance.
Building with Walnut Plywood
Using walnut plywood to build furniture, like a table with hardwood edges, allows for high-quality construction at a more affordable price. Veneering helps extend wood resources, and walnut plywood is available in sheets up to 12 feet long. You can choose between plain-sliced or rotary-cut veneers for different grain patterns, with rotary cutting often creating dramatic cathedral designs.
Thickness and Core Options
Walnut plywood typically comes in thicknesses of ¼”, ½”, and ¾”, with core options like birch or a combination of veneer and MDF. Birch cores eliminate plywood voids and knots, while MDF cores create a smooth surface for better finishes.
Visual Appeal and Durability
Walnut and black walnut share a similar appearance, especially after finishing, and can be combined in projects without issue. Despite the thinness of the walnut veneer, it remains durable, resisting scratches and dents. Using paste wood filler can enhance the grain and provide a smoother, glass-like finish.
Finishing Walnut Plywood
Varnish is the most popular finish for walnut plywood, with a matte finish being especially common. For non-furniture applications, Tung Oil offers an alternative finish, adding a distinct shine.
Walnut plywood remains a classic choice for furniture makers, offering beauty, durability, and cost-effectiveness in a single package.
Top Walnut Wood Furniture Pieces to Enhance Your Home
If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance and durability to your home, walnut wood furniture is an excellent choice. Here are some of the best walnut wood furniture pieces available, from storage solutions to stylish décor.
Explore these high-quality items that bring beauty and function together:
Grain Wood Furniture Shaker 6-Drawer Dresser: A timeless dresser made from solid walnut wood, perfect for keeping your bedroom organized with a touch of sophistication. A solid wood dresser with a walnut finish, offering ample storage for your bedroom. Amazon
Angora Walnut Epoxy Executive Desk: Elevate your workspace with this luxurious executive desk, crafted from black walnut and featuring a striking epoxy design for a modern look.
A luxurious executive desk crafted from black walnut, featuring a unique epoxy design.
LEEMTORIG Mid Century Modern Round End Table: This round end table with a walnut finish adds a mid-century modern charm to any room, providing both style and practicality.
A solid wood side table with a walnut finish, perfect for living rooms or bedrooms.
Maricome 6 Inch Wood Furniture Legs: Upgrade your furniture with walnut-finished legs, perfect for giving your chairs, sofas, or tables a fresh, stylish update.
Walnut-finished furniture legs are suitable for replacing or upgrading your furniture’s legs.
