SP Blog # 4: Top 10 Hardwoods Used in Amish Furniture — And Which Ones Are Best for Your Home

One of the most important decisions you’ll make when ordering Amish furniture is choosing the right hardwood. Unlike store-bought furniture made from veneers and particle board, Amish builders use solid American hardwoods that last for generations.

Each wood species has its own look, personality, durability, and best-use cases.Here’s a simple, clear guide to help you choose the perfect hardwood for your next Amish-built piece.

1. Brown Maple — Popular, Affordable, and Versatile

Brown maple is one of the most widely chosen hardwoods because it offers beauty, durability, and value.

Why customers love it:

• Smooth, closed grain

• Works well with light, dark, or painted finishes

• Affordable hardwood option

• Perfect for modern, transitional, or farmhouse styles

  
  

Best for:

Bedroom sets, dining tables, TV stands, buffets, desks

2. Oak — Traditional Strength and Grain

Oak is the classic American hardwood — strong, timeless, and known for its visible grain pattern.

Why customers choose it:

• Extremely durable

• Traditional appearance

• Economical

• Takes stain well

  
  

Best for:

Dining tables, chairs, bookcases, mission-style furniture

3. Quarter-Sawn White Oak — Rift Grain Beauty

Quarter-sawn white oak is a premium option prized for its distinctive “tiger stripe” grain and superior stability.

Benefits:

• Resistant to warping

• Exceptional durability

• Gorgeous unique grain patterns

• High-end, heirloom look

  
  

Best for:

Mission style, craftsman style, formal dining sets

4. Hard Maple — Strong and Smooth

Hard maple is dense and extremely durable, with a smooth, subtle grain.

Why it stands out:

• Very hard surface

• Great for high-use pieces

• Light, clean appearance

• Excellent for contemporary homes

  
  

Best for:

Dining tables, children’s furniture, desks, dressers

5. Cherry — Warm, Elegant, and Ages Beautifully

Cherry darkens naturally over time, developing a warm, rich patina.

Reasons customers love cherry:

• Smooth, luxurious grain

• Elegant reddish tones

• Ages beautifully

• Ideal for classic or formal interiors

  
  

Best for:

Bedrooms, dining rooms, office furniture

6. Walnut — High-End, Naturally Dark Hardwood

Walnut is one of the most premium hardwoods available.

Why it’s sought-after:

• Deep chocolate-brown color

• Beautiful natural grain variation

• Requires very little staining

• Instantly upscale feel

  
  

Best for:

Executive desks, statement dining tables, luxury bedrooms

7. Hickory — Rustic, Distinctive, and Ultra-Strong

Hickory is one of the hardest North American hardwoods.

Benefits:

• Highly durable

• Strong grain contrast

• Perfect for rustic or lodge-style homes

• Natural character marks

  
  

Best for:

Rustic dining tables, bedroom sets, log-style furniture

8. Elm — Textured and Unique

Elm is a stunning hardwood with pronounced grain and deep texture.

Reasons to choose Elm:

• Strong interlocking grain

• Resistant to splitting

• Striking grain patterns

• Beautiful with contrasting tops and bases

  
  

Best for:

Dining tables, occasional tables, accent pieces

9. Red Oak — Classic, Economical, and Strong

More affordable than many hardwoods, red oak remains a sturdy, dependable option.

Advantages:

• Strong and reliable

• Traditional appearance

• Budget-friendly

• Readily available

  
  

Best for:

Bookcases, cabinets, traditional dining sets

10. Ambrosia Maple — Character and Personality

Ambrosia maple features streaks and patterns caused by the ambrosia beetle — making every piece truly unique.

Why it’s popular:

• Natural character markings

• Rustic appeal

• Works well in modern homes

• One-of-a-kind patterns

  
  

Best for:

Accent pieces, tops, dining tables, rustic furniture

⭐ How to Choose the Best Hardwood for Your Needs

For a modern look:

Brown maple, hard maple, walnut

For rustic or farmhouse:

Hickory, oak, ambrosia maple

For elegant or formal:

Cherry, quarter-sawn white oak, walnut

For budget-friendly durability:

Brown maple, red oak

⭐ At Simon-Pure Amish Furniture, We Guide You Through Every Choice

Our Parker, Colorado showroom offers hardwood samples, stain charts, and expert advice to help you pick the right wood for your home and lifestyle.

Whether you love warm cherry, modern brown maple, bold hickory, or luxurious walnut, our Amish builders craft every piece with precision and pride.