Black walnut wood, also called Juglans nigra, is a popular type of hardwood that comes from the Eastern United States. People love it because of its deep, beautiful color and strong, long-lasting quality. It’s also easy to work with, which is why many woodworkers and furniture makers prefer it.
Characteristics and Properties
Color and Appearance
Black walnut wood comes in shades from light pale brown to dark chocolate brown, often with darker streaks. It can sometimes have hints of gray, purple, or red. The outer layer, or sapwood, is usually pale yellow-gray to almost white. Unique patterns like curls, crotches, and burls make it look even more attractive.
Grain and Texture
Black walnut wood usually has a straight grain, but it can be irregular. It has a medium texture and a slight natural shine, giving it a smooth finish. The wood shows growth rings with a gradual change in pore size from earlywood to latewood.
Mechanical Properties
Janka Hardness: 1,010 lbf (4,490 N)
Modulus of Rupture: 14,600 lbf/in² (100.7 MPa)
Elastic Modulus: 1,680,000 lbf/in² (11.59 GPa)
Crushing Strength: 7,580 lbf/in² (52.3 MPa)
Shrinkage:
- Radial: 5.5%
- Tangential: 7.8%
- Volumetric: 12.8%
- T/R Ratio: 1.4
Durability
Black walnut is very durable and resists decay well, but it can be attacked by insects. It is known for its good stability, shock resistance, and strength.
Workability
Black walnut is generally easy to work with if the grain is straight and regular. It can be planed, glued, stained, and finished well. However, pieces with irregular or figured grain might tear out when planed. The wood also bends well when steamed.
Uses of Black Walnut Wood
Black walnut wood (Juglans nigra) is loved for its deep color, strength, and ease of use. Its versatility makes it great for many functional and decorative purposes. Here are some of the most common uses:
1. Furniture
High-Quality Furniture: Black walnut is often used to make premium furniture like desks, tables, chairs, dressers, and shelves because of its attractive grain and rich color.
Cabinetry: It’s a popular choice for kitchen cabinets and other storage solutions, giving a luxurious and elegant look.
2. Interior Design
Flooring: Black walnut is used for hardwood flooring, adding warmth and sophistication to any room.
Paneling and Millwork: It’s great for interior wall paneling, wainscoting, and other decorative woodwork, enhancing the beauty of interiors.
Decorative Elements: Black walnut is used to make clocks, accent pieces, and wall art.
3. Musical Instruments
String and Wind Instruments: This wood is used to make violins, guitars, flutes, and other musical instruments due to its great sound qualities and attractive look.
4. Kitchenware
Cutting Boards and Utensils: Its hardness and durability make black walnut perfect for cutting boards, salad bowls, spoons, and other kitchen tools.
5. Turned Items and Carvings
Woodturning: Black walnut is popular for woodturning projects like bowls, vases, and other decorative items.
Carvings and Sculptures: Artists and woodworkers use it to create sculptures, carvings, and other artistic pieces because of its beautiful grain and color.
6. Gunstocks
Firearms: The wood’s strength and attractive appearance make it ideal for crafting gunstocks, especially for high-end firearms.
7. Miscellaneous Uses
Veneer and Plywood: Black walnut veneer is used to make plywood and other materials look more appealing, making it popular for high-end cabinetry and furniture.
Specialty Items: It’s often used to create high-end boxes, containers, and special items like jewelry boxes and humidors.
Outdoor Furniture: Though not as weather-resistant as some other woods, black walnut is still used for high-end outdoor furniture where looks are important.
8. Traditional and Medicinal Uses
Dyes and Stains: The hulls of black walnut nuts are used to make natural dyes and stains for fabrics and wood.
Medicinal Uses: The bark and hulls have been used in traditional medicine, though they can be toxic and should be used carefully.
Comparing Black Walnut Wood to Other Woods
| Feature | Black Walnut | Mahogany | Maple | Oak | Cherry |
| Color and Appearance | Pale brown to dark chocolate brown, can have gray, purple, or red hues | Pale pinkish brown to dark reddish brown, darkens over time, uniform color | Light-colored, ranging from off-white to cream, sometimes golden hue | Ranges from white to light brown (sapwood) and pinkish to reddish brown (heartwood) | Light pinkish brown, darkens to golden brown over time |
| Grain and Texture | Usually straight, can be irregular, medium texture, moderate luster | Straight and close grain, subtle and consistent appearance | Fine and even texture, straight to wavy grain pattern | Coarse texture, large and open pores | Fine texture, straight grain pattern |
| Hardness | Janka hardness of 1,010 lbf (4,490 N) | Janka hardness between 800 and 900 lbf | Hard maple Janka hardness of 1,450 lbf, more robust and durable | Red Oak Janka hardness of 1,290 lbf, harder than walnut | Janka hardness of 950 lbf, slightly softer than walnut |
Also read: Oak vs Walnut: A Detailed Comparison
Tips for Buying Black Walnut Wood:
When purchasing black walnut wood, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you get high-quality material suitable for your project. Here are some key tips to guide you through the process:
1. Understand the Different Grades and Types
Grades:
FAS (First and Seconds): This is the highest grade, offering the best quality with minimal defects.
Select and Better (Sel&Btr): High-quality wood with minor defects permissible.
Common Grades: Lower quality with more defects, but can be cost-effective for smaller projects or parts.
Types:
Black Walnut: Known for its rich, dark heartwood and lighter sapwood. It’s the most popular type used in the U.S. due to its strength and workability.
English Walnut: Often used for veneer due to its higher cost and beautiful grain patterns.
2. Inspect the Color and Grain
Color:
The heartwood of black walnut ranges from light brown to dark chocolate brown, sometimes with purplish or reddish hues.
The sapwood is almost white to pale yellow-gray. Ensure you are aware of the sapwood content if you prefer a uniform color.
Grain:
Look for straight, fine grain for easier workability.
Unique grain patterns like curls, burls, and crotches can add aesthetic value but may be more challenging to work with.
3. Check for Defects and Imperfections
Knots and Cracks: Ensure that any knots are tight and not loose, as loose knots can compromise the wood’s integrity.
Warping and Cupping: Check that the boards are straight and flat. Warped or cupped boards can be difficult to work with.
Insect Damage: Inspect for signs of insect damage, especially in the sapwood, which is more susceptible.
4. Consider the Drying Method
Kiln-Dried: This method stabilizes the wood and reduces moisture content, making it less likely to warp or crack.
Air-Dried: Preserves more of the wood’s natural color variations but may have higher moisture content and potential for movement.
5. Evaluate the Source and Sustainability
Sustainable Harvesting: Ensure the wood is sourced from sustainably managed forests to reduce environmental impact.
Local Suppliers: Buying from local suppliers can reduce transportation costs and support local economies.
6. Pricing and Budget
Cost: Black walnut wood can range from $8 to $25 per board foot, depending on the grade and figure. Plan your budget accordingly.
Lower Grades for Hidden Parts: Use lower grades for parts that won’t be visible to save on costs without compromising the overall quality.
7. Purchase Options
Lumber Yards and Specialty Stores: Offer a wide selection and the ability to inspect the wood in person.
Online Retailers: Convenient but ensure they have good reviews and a return policy in case the wood does not meet your expectations.
8. Finishing and Maintenance
Finishing: Black walnut finishes beautifully. Consider using oils, varnishes, or waxes to enhance its natural beauty.
Maintenance: Avoid harsh chemicals for cleaning. Use a damp cloth and mild soap if necessary. Periodically renew the finish to maintain its appearance.
Also read: Ash Wood: Discover Its Secrets!
