Black Walnut Hardwood S2S1E

Black Walnut Hardwood S2S1E Kiln-dried (surfaced 2 sides and 1 edge) for Woodworkers. These Black Walnut boards, also known as American Walnut, are mainly heartwood, but can have some sapwood in them as well. Boards are partially dressed as they are “skip” surfaced on both faces with 1 edge clean-ripped. Skip surfaced cleans up most of the roughness to the board, but there could be an occasional rough patch on the faces of boards. Additional dressing and planning of the boards may be needed to complete your project. Since one edge is left rough, please allow a 1” variance in the width of the board.

Walnut, a hard wood, is grown in Canada and USA. The color ranges from light brown, dark chocolate, to a yellowish brown.  It is a popular wood for cabinet and furniture making. Walnut is also used for carving and musical instruments. 

If you would like a more finished board, please see our S4S Hardwoods.

Characteristics of our FAS graded Boards:

1. Wavy or Curly grain patterns: Black walnut can exhibit wavy or curly grain patterns, which are often referred to as "curl" or "figured" grain. This occurs when the wood fibers grow in a non-linear pattern, creating unique visual effects and patterns in the wood. Such grain patterns are highly sought after because they enhance the aesthetic appeal of the finished piece, adding depth and character. Although wavy or curly grain is visible in many boards, we can’t guarantee the board will have a wavy grain pattern.

2. Variations of heartwood coloring: The heartwood of black walnut typically ranges in color from a rich chocolate brown to purplish brown to dark taupe coloring. Natural variations can occur, leading to lighter or darker shades depending on factors like age and growth conditions. The natural variances in wood color are primarily caused by factors such as the tree's age, environmental conditions (including soil type, moisture, and light exposure), and the specific growth characteristics of the tree.
   
   
3. Minimal Face defects: FAS boards must have a minimum of 83 1/3% clear face on a board 8' - 12' long. This means that the larger surface must have a significant amount of clear, usable wood with few or small defects on main face. Back face can have a few knots, want and other minor defects. There can be an occasional end check (small crack at end of board).
   
   
4. Possible Knots: FAS grading allows for some minor defects, such as sound knots, stains, but it should not significantly impact the appearance or usability of the board. Generally, FAS grade allows for a limited number of sound knots on good side, typically around one to two sound knots per side of the board, depending on their size. Typically, sound knots can be 1 inch (25 mm) - 2 inch (50 mm) in diameter. Back side can also have sound knots or partially missing knots, but missing knots should not go through the board.
   
   
5. Sapwood Limitation: Since black walnut sapwood is lighter in color (cream or white in color) compared to the heartwood, visible sapwood should be minimal to maintain the desirable characteristics associated with the FAS grade. FAS grade black walnut can have some sapwood, but it should generally not exceed 10% of the total width of the board.
   
   
6. Overall Quality: FAS graded wood is typically of the highest quality among hardwood lumber, making it ideal for fine furniture, cabinetry, and high-end woodworking projects.

Black walnut is prized for its rich color and grain pattern, making FAS grading particularly valuable in the woodworking and furniture making industries.