Graduating from Red Oak

Forget that article!

If you like the way the one in the photo looks (and I think it’s beautiful) you should go with walnut. It will compliment your ash beautifully, IMO. Also, once you work with walnut, you will be hooked.

-- Charlie M. "Woodworking - patience = firewood"

That’s a tough call … both walnut and cherry cab look terrific. I think it might depend on the room you intend for the piece to go in … walnut may look better in some rooms than cherry and vice-versa. Also, cherry tends to darken with age, so in a couple of years, the piece may look different than it will the day you finish it.

-- Gerry -- "I don't plan to ever really grow up ... I'm just going to learn how to act in public!"

Thanks…I’m not sure if this weighs in on the thoughts, but I plan on a clear finish…no colouring.

-- Michael James - www.michaeljames.ca

I’d use walnut. The contrast would be greater. Clear finish would be stunning.

-- Gary, DeKalb Texas only 4 miles from the mill

+1…Walnut!

-- Gene 'The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.' G. K. Chesterton

Both cherry and walnut are great to work with, and look great with a clear finish. Neither are particularly hard to cut, but both burn more easily than oak or ash….keep your blades clean and sharp. Cherry will darken with age, walnut is darker to start with. Note that some folks can have an allergic reaction when working with walnut so be aware. As always, check with the “misses” about which to go with!

-- Happiness is like wetting your pants...everyone can see it, but only you can feel the warmth....

I like cherry and walnut too.

-- W James Brokenbourgh Custom furniture maker http://artisticwoodstudio.com/

Walnut for sure Michael.
:)

Ryan

-- I restore the finest vintage tools! If you need a nice plane, saw, marking tool or brace, please let me know!