Selecting the right wood for your live-edge table can transform your home or office into a space of elegance and character.
Cherry wood, renowned for its stunning appearance and lasting strength, is a favorite among furniture makers and homeowners alike.
From its beautiful aging process to its versatile style, cherry wood offers a blend of practicality and luxury. Read on to discover what makes cherry wood the ideal option for your next live-edge table project, and how it can elevate your interior décor.
What Is Cherry Wood?
Cherry wood, meaning the wood obtained from the cherry tree, is very popular for making furniture. It is most commonly sourced from the American Black Cherry tree (Prunus serotina). Its most notable features are its color, fine grain, and smooth texture.
Key Features of a Cherry Wood Live Edge Table
1) Unique Aesthetic
The biggest strength of live-edge cherry tables is their natural and organic look. Each slab has a different edge, so every table is unique. The color and grain of cherry wood further highlight this natural edge.
2) Variation in Every Table
Cherry wood slabs naturally have gum pockets, pin knots, and brown flecks that give each table a unique character. These imperfections add an artistic and bespoke touch to the piece.
3) Versatility
Cherry wood live-edge tables fit into all kinds of interiors, whether your home is modern or rustic. They’re also a great choice for dining, coffee, or office tables.
Qualities of cherry wood
1) Beautiful Color and Grain
Cherry wood initially has a light pinkish or brownish color, but over time, it deepens to a rich reddish-brown. This natural darkening process makes the wood even more beautiful. Its grain is fine, straight, and uniform, giving tables an elegant and classy look.
2) Strength and Durability
Cherry wood is a medium-density hardwood that is strong without being too heavy. Its Janka hardness rating is 950, which makes it suitable for everyday use. The wood resists dents and scratches to some extent, but it is a bit softer than oak or maple.
3) Easy Workability
Cherry wood is very easy to machine, sand, and finish. Because of its workability, woodworkers like it a lot, especially for live-edge tables where the natural edge is highlighted.
4) Aging and Patina
A special quality of cherry wood is that it becomes more beautiful over time. As it is exposed to light, its color deepens and a rich patina develops, making each table unique.
Cherry Wood Compared to Other Woods
| Wood Type | Color | Grain/Texture | Durability | Workability | Price Range | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry | Light pinkish to reddish-brown (darkens over time) | Fine, smooth, straight | Medium-high | Very easy | Medium-high | Natural aging, rich patina, elegant look |
| Oak | Light to medium brown | Coarse, prominent | High | Easy | Medium | Strong, traditional look |
| Walnut | Dark chocolate brown | Fine, straight | High | Easy | High | Rich color, luxury feel |
| Maple | Light cream to pale brown | Fine, smooth | Very high | Easy | Medium | Hardest, light color, modern look |
Note
- Cherry wood’s biggest advantage is its color and natural patina, which become even more beautiful over time.
- Oak is harder and gives a more traditional look.
- Walnut is known for its luxury appeal and dark color.
- Maple is the hardest and is best for light-colored interiors.
Sustainability and Environment
Cherry wood is sustainable and eco-friendly, especially when sourced from responsibly managed forests. It stores carbon, and local sourcing reduces its carbon footprint. Many suppliers offer certified sustainable cherry wood, which is better for the environment.
Care and maintenance tips
- Daily Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth. Always clean in the direction of the grain.
- Damp Cloth: Use a slightly damp cloth, but avoid excess water. Always wipe with a dry cloth afterward.
- Polish/Wax: Apply high-quality furniture polish or paste wax, but avoid silicone-based polishes.
- Protection: Use coasters, placemats, and tablecloths. Do not place hot or wet items directly on the table.
- Sunlight: Protect from direct sunlight, though a little exposure can deepen the color.
- Humidity: Keep room humidity between 40–55% to prevent the wood from cracking.
Note: If stains or watermarks appear, gently treat them with a baking soda paste or a hair dryer.
Conclusion
If you want a unique, elegant, and durable live-edge table for your home or office, cherry wood is the best choice. Its beautiful color, fine grain, and natural aging process turn every table into a masterpiece.
This wood isn’t just pleasing to the eye; it’s also sustainable, and with proper care, the table can last for generations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Cherry Wood Good for Dining Tables?
Yes. Cherry wood’s durability and elegant look make it a great choice for dining tables. It can handle everyday use with ease.
2. How Does Cherry Wood’s Color Change Over Time?
Cherry wood darkens and becomes richer with time, which makes it even more attractive.
3. Is Cherry Wood Table Maintenance Difficult?
No. Cherry wood tables are easy to maintain. Regular dusting, occasional polishing, and a bit of care help them last for many years.
