Choosing the right wood species for custom furniture can be challenging, especially with so many high-quality hardwood options available here at eastbaydiy. This guide offers insights into popular wood combinations to help you make an informed choice for your next custom piece.
First, here is the simple illustration of overall structure showing you two parts of the our furniture:
A: Stretchers + Drawer faces
B: Panels
Structure Picture
At eastbaydiy you have the options to choose two wood species A and B respectively for each furniture. For A, it's always solid lumber; For B, you can choose either plywood or solid lumber (some prefer plywood to save the costs and some prefer solid lumber for its longevity). No matter what you choose, the craftsmanship and build process are the same.
The default option for B is plywood.
We have sorted out a couple most popular combinations for you in the hope it could help you pick the right species faster.
TL;DR
Red Oak ➕ Maple for light color (most affordable),
Cherry ➕ Cherry for dark red color,
Walnut ➕ Walnut for the premium darkest color.
A: Red Oak + B: Maple
This combination provides a light-colored wood with a distinct, vivid grain pattern. Red oak is a highly durable hardwood that is also budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for furniture that needs to withstand daily use.
If you're aiming for a light, warm look, red oak combined with maple plywood is a great option, offering both visual appeal and affordability.
Japanese Style Media Console /w 6-drawer 60W x 20D x 32H Front View
From 12in(body only) height to 20in, you can custom different dimensions to fit you needs!
A: Cherry + B: Cherry
Cherry wood is known for its warm, reddish-brown tones, which deepen beautifully over time. As it ages, cherry develops a rich, dark patina, which is a feature many appreciate for its added character and timeless appeal.
Some may prefer lighter tones, so it’s important to consider this natural darkening effect when choosing cherry for a project.
For those who value an elegant and traditional look, cherry offers a refined aesthetic that only improves with age.
Japanese Style Cherry Hallway Table
Cherry Hallway Table - After a couple of months aging
A: Walnut + B: Walnut
Walnut is prized for its deep, rich brown color and striking grain patterns, creating a luxurious and refined look. As a premium hardwood, walnut offers a classic sophistication that pairs well with both traditional and modern designs.
The combination of walnut lumber and walnut plywood achieves a cohesive look, while walnut's natural resilience ensures longevity. With a smooth, almost velvety feel, walnut is perfect for high-end furniture where beauty and durability are paramount.
Choosing walnut is ideal if you want a bold, classic look that will stand the test of time in both appearance and durability.
Walnut Japanese Style Boy Dresser
The walnut color really pops after applying Rubio Monocoat 2C - Pure.
By understanding the unique qualities of each wood species, you’ll be better equipped to choose the one that suits both your aesthetic and functional needs.
