SCIENTIFIC NAME(s):

Juglans nigra

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COMMON NAME(s):

Walnut, Black Walnut, Eastern Walnut

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GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Walnut is one of the most enjoyed American hardwoods for its fine-yet-open grain, unique patterns, and bold dark color. The sapwood of Walnut is creamy white, and up to 8 cm (3 in.) wide in open-grown trees. The heartwood is light brown to dark chocolate brown, occasionally with a purplish cast and darker streaks. It is usually supplied pre-steamed, to darken the sapwood. The wood is generally straight-grained; sometimes with wavy or curly grain that produces an attractive and decorative figure.

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REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION:

Walnut wood can be found throughout the Eastern United States, but the principal commercial region is from the Central states. Walnut from the north often shows a more uniform chocolate brown color. Walnut from the southern end of the growing range may exhibit a wider range of color with some green or purple hues. Black Walnut, also known as American Black Walnut, ranges from Vermont to the Great Plains and southward into Louisiana and Texas.

 

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES:

Walnut is a tough hardwood of medium density, with moderate bending and crushing strengths, and low stiffness. It has a good steam-bending classification. Walnut is normally straight grained, easily worked with tools, and stable in use. It is heavy, hard, strong, stiff, and has good resistance to shock.

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WORKING PROPERTIES:

Walnut works easily with hand and machine tools, and nails, screws, and glues well. It is easy to cut, shape and sand, and the wood takes on an amazing look with a clear finish but is also well suited for natural finishes. It holds paint and stain very well for an exceptional finish and is readily polished. It dries slowly, and care is needed to avoid kiln degrade. It has good dimensional stability.

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ALTERNATIVES:

Rosewood, Wenge

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COMMON USES:

Because of its good properties and interesting grain pattern, Walnut is valued for furniture, architectural woodwork, and decorative panels. Other important uses are gunstocks, trophies, cabinets, giftware and interior woodwork. It is also a favored wood for use in contrast with lighter-colored species.

 

GRADE:

Walnut is graded per NHLA Walnut grade rules. These rules are generally considered to be more lenient than NHLA Standard grade rules.

 

 

Crafting American Patriotic & Commemorative Flags

For Military Veterans, First Responders & Other Patriots

Made by American Veterans

Using Strictly American Materials

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