WOODS

Yes: Always read the manufacturer's warning labels and recommended uses. Remember, Stains are chemicals and they act differently with variable products. Always test a small area of the piece to be stained before doing the entire piece. Staining the back makes a good tester.

Stains can be applied with a brush or rag. If you use a rag, when you are finished with it do not throw it into a bag (sealed or otherwise), or let multiple rags pile up.

Stains with linseed oil in them can spontaneously combust - yes catch fire before your eyes! Dispose of rags inside a metal can filled with water.

Take it to a site for hazardous wastes for disposal once your project is finished.

Never through old stains or solvents down the sink or toilet.

Alder

Alder is a favorite in Western North America. There are two major variations of Alder.

Character Alder or Knotty Alder has small knots.

Clear Alder is more of stain grade product.

American Poplar

It is a hardwood. The tree is fast growing producing mostly white wood. However, there are some green streaks in the appearance. White is not guaranteed. It can be stained but is generally paint grade. It tends to be quite hairy. American Poplar is an excellent base for a wood overlay.

FAQ: Is there a better wood to stain or clear coat?

Maple is a good alternative for clear coating or staining light colors. This is due to the fact that there is not the green tinge or streaks in Maple and the stain does not absorb too deep expanding the wood fibers. Like American Poplar, Maple is also a hardwood in spite of its' name implying that it is a softwood (it is softer than Northern Hard maple). Maple is not as

hairy, thus a smoother texture to provide even staining.

FAQ: Will the American Poplar be consistent in color?

No: There are green tinges or even pieces that are very green in color. American Poplar is sold as is within the product mix.

Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.

Ash

coming soon

Beech

coming soon

Yellow Birch

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)

It is an engineered wood composite product. Smooth MDF is often Primed White with the finish applied at the factory so it is ready to paint.

Embossed MDF is not usually primed. You can stain MDF with difficulty but it is suitable for priming and faux finishing.

FAQ: What is Embossed MDF?

A heat embossment machine stamps out a pattern on the moldings. This stamping process creates a deep profile that can be painted or faux finished. Embossed MDF is not primed. It is better to put a very thin layer of primer so not to cover up the embossment. Enhanced with gold paints, embossed MDF patterns come alive.

FAQ: What is Wood Overlay on MDF?

The wood overlay isactual wood powder mixed with a bonding agent. This product is not made from molds, it is actually poured onto the surface of the wood. Know as "comp", patterns are regular but there can be slight variations due to the manufacturing process. This product is generally primed white from the factory.

All About Alder
	Brief Description: It is a hardwood. The wood is a favorite in Western North America. There are two major grades of Alder, Character alder or Knotty Alder which as small knots. Clear Alder is a premium grade product.
FAQ: How does it Stain? Alder is a good alternative to Cherry. Unlike Cherry it does not change it's color through oxidization as does Cherry.
FAQ: Are there variances in color and grain of the base wood? Yes: Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.
FAQ: Is there something you can tell me about commercial wiping stains? Yes: Always read the manufacturer's warning labels and recommended uses. Remember, Stains are chemicals and they act differently with variable products. Stains can be applied with a brush or rag. If you use a rag, when you are finished with it do not throw it into a bag (sealed or otherwise), or let multiple rags pile up. Stains with linseed oil in them can spontaneously combust - yes catch fire before your eyes! Dispose of rags inside a metal can filled with water. Take it to a site for hazardous wastes for disposal once your project is finished. Never through old stains or solvents down the sink or toilet.

All About American Poplar
	Brief Description: It is a hardwood. The tree is fast growing producing mostly white wood. However, there are some green streaks in the appearance. White is not guaranteed. It can be stained but is generally paint grade. It tends to be quite hairy. American Poplar is an excellent base for a wood overlay.
FAQ: How does it Stain? Maple is a good alternative for clear coating or staining light colors. This is due to the fact that there is not the green tinge or streaks in Maple and the stain does not absorb too deep expanding the wood fibers. Like American Poplar, Maple is also a hardwood in spite of its' name implying that it is a softwood (it is softer than Northern Hard maple). Maple is not as hairy, thus a smoother texture to provide even staining. Use Benite or another wood conditioner to seal up the wood pores before staining.
FAQ: Will the American Poplar be consistent in color? No: There are green tinges or even pieces that are very green in color. American Poplar is sold as is within the product mix. Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.
FAQ: Are there variances in color and grain of the base wood? Yes: Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.
FAQ: Is there something you can tell me about commercial wiping stains? Yes: Always read the manufacturer's warning labels and recommended uses. Remember, Stains are chemicals and they act differently with variable products. Stains can be applied with a brush or rag. If you use a rag, when you are finished with it do not throw it into a bag (sealed or otherwise), or let multiple rags pile up. Stains with linseed oil in them can spontaneously combust - yes catch fire before your eyes! Dispose of rags inside a metal can filled with water. Take it to a site for hazardous wastes for disposal once your project is finished. Never through old stains or solvents down the sink or toilet.

All About Cherry
	Brief Description: It is an expensive hardwood for furniture making. The tree is slow growing producing mostly red brown wood. Cherry stains well. There is a mixture of sapwood and heartwood for most manufactured goods unless specified. Cherry will darken with age, unlike Alder that stays relatively consistent over time.
FAQ: How does it Stain? Stains very well. For economy, one might consider using Maple with a Cherry Stain as a good alternative. Cherry or Maple are not hairy, thus a smoother texture to provide even staining.
FAQ: Will the Cherry be consistent in color? Unless you specifiy all heartwood or all sapwood, there will be variable pieces of various colors. Expect to pay much more for premium wood matched. Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.
FAQ: Is there something you can tell me about commercial wiping stains? Yes: Always read the manufacturer's warning labels and recommended uses. Remember, Stains are chemicals and they act differently with variable products. Stains can be applied with a brush or rag. If you use a rag, when you are finished with it do not throw it into a bag (sealed or otherwise), or let multiple rags pile up. Stains with linseed oil in them can spontaneously combust - yes catch fire before your eyes! Dispose of rags inside a metal can filled with water. Take it to a site for hazardous wastes for disposal once your project is finished. Never through old stains or solvents down the sink or toilet.

All About Knotty Pine
	Brief Description: Like the name, Knotty Pine has knots. It is a rustic wood and is paint grade or stained rustic. It is sold as is. Knotty pine is soft and grainy and yes has knots.
FAQ: Can I Just Stain Knotty Pine? No: The sap from the knots will always "bleed" through with Knotty Pine. If you want to paint it Knotty Pine 1) shellac the knots first and let it dry for a day 2) prime with a good quality primer and let it dry for a day 3) Paint the product with high quality paint.
FAQ: How does it Stain? If you like the rustic look, knotty pine is wonderful and ages gracefully. It is a wood that shows the rawness of nature.
FAQ: Are there variances in color and grain of the base wood? Yes: Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.
FAQ: Is there something you can tell me about commercial wiping stains? Yes: Always read the manufacturer's warning labels and recommended uses. Remember, Stains are chemicals and they act differently with variable products. Stains can be applied with a brush or rag. If you use a rag, when you are finished with it do not throw it into a bag (sealed or otherwise), or let multiple rags pile up. Stains with linseed oil in them can spontaneously combust - yes catch fire before your eyes! Dispose of rags inside a metal can filled with water. Take it to a site for hazardous wastes for disposal once your project is finished. Never through old stains or solvents down the sink or toilet.

Mahogany

This wood comes from both South America and Africa.

It tends to be a lesser expensive wood coming out of the rainforests than other species.

The wood is rich and red in appearance and has a soft grain.

FAQ: I have been told that Brazilian Mahogany is better than African Mahogany?

Both of these woods are tropical woods. The condition of the wood is quite variable depending on the exact region the wood comes from unlike a more managed forest.

South American Mahogany:

There is little Brazilian mahogany left on the market. It is now known as South American mahogany. For example, Honduras has passed laws prohibiting the export

of non-processed mahogany. Unless you are buying a statue or column or any other product made from mahogany, the raw wood cannot be exported from Honduras.

African Mahogany: Very similar to South American however the quality will depend on the tree

FAQ: Is there an alternative to Mahogany?

Yes: Northern Soft Maple is very white in color. With the use of a Mahogany stain, the maple can resemble Mahogany. To the trained eye there is a difference.

FAQ: Are there variances in color and grain?

Yes: Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.

Mahogany can be streaky with different pieces or the same pieces having different colors.This is normal and industry standard. You can pay large premiums for consistency but often have to buy the entire lot of wood to pick the pieces for a color match.

All About Maple
	Best Choice of Wood for Cabinetry & Kitchens
Brief Description: Northern Soft Maple: This wood comes mostly from Southern Canada & northern USA. It is very white in color and has little grain. It is excellent for making kitchen cabinetry, furniture, and carvings. Although the wood is very hard, it is softer than hard maple. Both are hardwoods. The tree grows fast and can be harvested and is a renewable resource. It is excellent for painting and staining. Maple is generally not color graded. Variations in color will occur. For a higher level of color consistency order SAP maple, which is very white.
Southern Soft Maple: This wood comes mostly from the Southern USA. It is very brown-red in color and has little grain. It is excellent for making kitchen cabinetry, furniture, and carvings. Although the wood is very hard, it is softer than hard maple. Both are hardwoods. The tree grows fast and can be harvested and is a renewable resource. It is excellent for painting and staining. Maple is generally not color graded. Variations in color will occur. For a higher level of color consistency order SAP maple, which is very white.
SAP Maple: This part of the tree is very white and has few color variations and is premium priced.
FAQ: Can I use Maple outside? No: It is not to be used for exterior applications as it will rot very quickly. For exterior use, one could consider Pine. The best wood for exterior use is Cedar or Pine
FAQ: How does it Stain? Maple Stains very well and can look like other woods with the right stains. For the best results order SAP Maple for a more consistent color. FAQ: Is there a more grainy wood to consider? Yes: One could consider White Pine as it is has more grain but maintains a white appearance FAQ: Is there a wood with the same grain but darker? Yes: One could consider southern soft maple as it resembles cherry but with less grain.
FAQ: Are there variances in color and grain of the base wood? Yes: Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.
FAQ: Is there something you can tell me about commercial wiping stains? Yes: Always read the manufacturer's warning labels and recommended uses. Remember, Stains are chemicals and they act differently with variable products. Stains can be applied with a brush or rag. If you use a rag, when you are finished with it do not throw it into a bag (sealed or otherwise), or let multiple rags pile up. Stains with linseed oil in them can spontaneously combust - yes catch fire before your eyes! Dispose of rags inside a metal can filled with water. Take it to a site for hazardous wastes for disposal once your project is finished. Never through old stains or solvents down the sink or toilet.

FingerJoint Pine

This wood is a manufactured product. It is a paint only product and is not recommended for staining as you will see the Joint lines.

FAQ: Can I stain Finger-joint Pine Products?

No: Once you stain this wood the joint lines will appear and be amplified. Select Maple, White Pine etc for stain grade woods.

FAQ: Can I use these Pine products outside?

Yes: Pine & Cedar are best for outside use. All wood used outside eventually rots, however there are some interesting things you can do to make your wood products last longer outside. Saturate the wood both sides with clear pressure treat. It is like the green stuff used on decks but is clear and the color won't bleed through the finish paint. Insects don't like pressure treated wood cause it kills them. Remember pressure treat is made from arsenic and is very absorbent to the skin. Wear gloves a mask and dispose of the brush after use in a hazardous waste dump. Always observe the manufacturer's instructions when using this powerful chemical. In some jurisdictions these chemicals may not be allowed - so check your local bylaws before using them. After the clear pressure treat is well dried, prime the wood with an external primer. Where oil based products are banned, use the best primer you can buy from a select paint store. Two coats is a good idea. Now paint with quality external paint. Sand lightly between paint coats.

FAQ: Are there variances in color and grain?

Yes: Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.

Clear Pine

Although clear pine infers that there are no knots, there are still some knots in the wood, although it is mostly clear

Spanish Cedar

Exterior Grade: Cedars are Kiln Dried Stain Grade superior to Normal Lumber Grade

Western Red Cedar

Exterior Grade: Cedars are Kiln Dried Stain Grade superior to Normal Lumber Grade

All About Red Oak
	Brief Description: It is a hardwood. The tree is slow growing producing mostly red brown wood. Red oak is very hard and grainy. It appears to be rougher than other woods. When stained the grain is enhanced greatly. Red Oak is very hard and is difficult to get great results in carving. Red Oak carvings are very beautiful because of their more rustic look.
FAQ: How does it Stain? Red Oak stains very well. You may have to stain it a few times to get the right color as Red Oak is hard and may not absorb the stain that fast. Some finishers suggest a mix of stain and glaze.
FAQ: Are there variances in color and grain of the base wood? Yes: Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.
FAQ: Is there something you can tell me about commercial wiping stains? Yes: Always read the manufacturer's warning labels and recommended uses. Remember, Stains are chemicals and they act differently with variable products. Stains can be applied with a brush or rag. If you use a rag, when you are finished with it do not throw it into a bag (sealed or otherwise), or let multiple rags pile up. Stains with linseed oil in them can spontaneously combust - yes catch fire before your eyes! Dispose of rags inside a metal can filled with water. Take it to a site for hazardous wastes for disposal once your project is finished. Never through old stains or solvents down the sink or toilet.

White Oak

It is a hardwood. The tree is slow growing producing mostly white wood. White oak is very hard and grainier than White Maple.

When stained the grain is enhanced greatly.

FAQ: Are there variances in color and grain?

Yes: Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.

Walnut

This wood is very hard and dark. It makes beautiful carvings and veneers for furniture, especially in the hard knot areas known as burled walnut.

FAQ: Are there variances in color and grain?

Yes: Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.

All About Lindenwood or Basswood
	Brief Description: Linden has the consistency of soft maple. It is a type of basswood and is very white in color. There is little grain. It is relatively soft and is easy to carve unlike harder woods like oak.
FAQ: How does it Stain? Due to it's white appearance and little grain, this wood paints very well. However for staining we would suggest Maple, Alder, or Oak. If you choose to stain Linden, be aware that it very porous and the wood cells will expand creating a rough appearance. Use Benite or another wood conditioner to seal up the wood pores before staining. A harder wood like Maple, does not allow the stain to absorb in such a manner. Some finishers suggest a mix of stain and glaze.
FAQ: Are there variances in color and grain of the base wood? Yes: Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.
FAQ: Is there something you can tell me about commercial wiping stains? Yes: Always read the manufacturer's warning labels and recommended uses. Remember, Stains are chemicals and they act differently with variable products. Stains can be applied with a brush or rag. If you use a rag, when you are finished with it do not throw it into a bag (sealed or otherwise), or let multiple rags pile up. Stains with linseed oil in them can spontaneously combust - yes catch fire before your eyes! Dispose of rags inside a metal can filled with water. Take it to a site for hazardous wastes for disposal once your project is finished. Never through old stains or solvents down the sink or toilet.

It is a hardwood. The tree is slow growing producing mostly white wood. White Pine is very hard with smooth grain.

FAQ: Are there variances in color and grain?

Yes: Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances

in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.

White Pine

It is a hardwood. The tree is slow growing producing mostly white wood. White Pine is very hard with smooth grain.

FAQ: Are there variances in color and grain?

Yes: Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances

in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.

All About Powdered Wood Overlays

Brief Description:

A powdered wood overlay is applied to the surface of a wood base. American Poplar is often used because of it's neutral light background.

This provides a high relief profile that can easily be stained or paint faux finish. It is not carved. The composite is a mix of glues and wood powder.

MonRealeTM is a registered Trademark and marketing label of White River Hardwoods for this process

FAQ: How is it made?

The wood overlay is actual wood powder mixed with a bonding agent. This product is not made

from molds, it is actually poured onto the surface of the wood. Know as "comp", patterns are

regular but there can be slight variations due to the manufacturing process. It is not Carved Wood.

FAQ: How does it Stain?

The wood overlay stains very well especially with darker colors. Because the wood overlay is

different than the base wood, a couple of coats of stain would have to be employed. Clear coating

of a wood overlay once stained and the American Poplar base would amplify the color variances. Light color

stains would have to be applied a few times to mute the color of the overlay. It is not suitable for just clear coating.

FAQ: Am I wasting money by ordering the Overlay on Mahogany?

Probably yes: Since most of the background wood is covered by the overlay, most of the expensive

background wood will not be seen. If mahogany is used, for example, the wood overlay will be lighter

in color to the background wood. This may not be a problem if darker stains are used.

FAQ: Are there variances in color and grain of the base wood?

Yes: Remember all wood is a natural product and there are always variances

in color and grain texture from piece to piece or within one run. No two pieces are identical.

FAQ: Is there something you can tell me about commercial wiping stains?

Yes: Always read the manufacturer's warning labels and recommended uses. Remember, Stains are chemicals and they act differently with variable

products. Stains can be applied with a brush or rag. If you use a rag, when you are finished with it do not throw it into a bag (sealed or otherwise), or

let multiple rags pile up. Stains with linseed oil in them can spontaneously combust - yes catch fire before your eyes! Dispose of rags inside a metal

can filled with water. Take it to a site for hazardous wastes for disposal once your project is finished. Never through old stains or solvents down the

sink or toilet.

All About Powdered Wood Overlay

Brief Description:

A powdered wood overlay is applied to the surface of a wood base. Maple, Basswood or Poplar is often used because of it's neutral light

background. This provides a high relief profile that can easily be stained or paint faux finish. It is not carved. The composite is a mix of glues and wood powder.