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The warmth, beauty, and strength of American red and white oak are well-established, but what is less known is that the way that cut lends a unique important design dimension.
The grain of any wood is derived from the growth rings of the tree. Oak may be cut horizontally or vertically—either along the grain or at right angles to the grain. Horizontally cut oak is generally the most economical use of the whole tree. Quarter sawn oak is generally considered a premium material because sawing for vertical grain yields less usable boards per tree.  When oak is cut horizontally (at right angles to the growth rings), its grain appears in distinctive and irregular “cathedral” shapes. This cut of wood has long been favored by artisans for its natural good looks and ready adaptability to a wide array of styles and finishes. While its graceful curves favor more traditional furniture styles and darker stains, American oak cut horizontally also stands up to contemporary furnishings with opaque finishes whose appeal is that the underlying wood grain is still distinguishable. Quarter or rift sawn oak is cut along the vertical axis of the timber; in this case, the grain appears as straight, relatively uniform, vertical lines that are parallel with each other. Furnishings created with quarter sawn oak have fewer natural markings; however, when stained, the more porous growth ring lines become more pronounced. Contemporary lines and natural finishes are complemented by this more subtle, restrained grain. |
