Best Places To Purchase Cherry Wood For Cabinetry Projects

where to buy cherry wood for cabinets

When considering where to buy cherry wood for cabinets, it’s essential to explore both local and online options to ensure quality and affordability. Local lumberyards and specialty woodworking stores often carry a variety of cherry wood options, allowing you to inspect the grain and color in person. For a wider selection and competitive pricing, online retailers like Woodworkers Source, Hardwood Lumber Company, or even Amazon offer pre-cut cherry wood planks and sheets, often with detailed specifications and customer reviews. Additionally, home improvement giants such as Home Depot or Lowe’s may stock cherry wood, though their selection might be more limited. For custom or high-end projects, contacting a local sawmill or wood supplier directly can provide access to unique cuts and finishes tailored to your cabinet needs. Always verify the wood’s origin and sustainability certifications to ensure it aligns with your values and project requirements.

Characteristics Values
Online Retailers Woodcraft, Rockler, eBay, Amazon, Etsy
Local Suppliers Lumberyards, specialty wood suppliers, home improvement stores (e.g., Lowe's, Home Depot)
Types of Cherry Wood Domestic cherry, imported cherry (e.g., Brazilian cherry)
Forms Available Boards, planks, plywood, veneers
Price Range $5–$20 per board foot (varies by quality and source)
Quality Options Select, #1 Common, #2 Common, rustic
Finishing Options Unfinished, pre-finished, stained, natural
Sustainability Look for FSC-certified or sustainably sourced options
Shipping Options Local pickup, delivery, or shipping (online orders)
Custom Orders Available at some suppliers for specific dimensions or quantities
Additional Services Milling, cutting, or sanding services offered by select suppliers
Reviews & Reputation Check customer reviews for reliability and quality
Availability Varies by region; more common in areas with woodworking industries

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Local lumberyards offering cherry wood

Local lumberyards are often overlooked in the quest for specialty woods like cherry, yet they remain a cornerstone for cabinetmakers seeking quality and authenticity. These establishments typically source their wood from regional mills, ensuring a shorter supply chain and fresher stock. When visiting a local lumberyard, ask about the origin of their cherry wood—whether it’s domestically harvested or imported—as this can affect grain patterns, color, and price. Many yards also offer kiln-dried options, which are essential for cabinetmaking to prevent warping and ensure stability in indoor environments.

For those new to working with cherry wood, local lumberyards provide an educational advantage. Staff members are often seasoned professionals who can guide you on selecting the right grade for your project, whether it’s select, No. 1 common, or rustic. They can also advise on moisture content, typically around 6-8% for cabinetmaking, and recommend sealants or finishes to enhance cherry’s natural patina over time. Unlike big-box stores, these yards frequently allow you to handpick boards, ensuring you get pieces with the exact grain and color variation you desire.

One practical tip when sourcing cherry wood from local lumberyards is to inquire about custom milling services. Many yards can plane, rip, or crosscut boards to your specifications, saving you time and reducing waste. Additionally, ask about bulk discounts if you’re purchasing large quantities for a full cabinet set. While prices vary, expect to pay between $8 to $15 per board foot for high-quality cherry, depending on grade and thickness. Always measure your cabinet plans beforehand to estimate the total volume needed, as cherry’s density and workability make it a material where precision pays off.

Finally, supporting local lumberyards fosters a sustainable approach to woodworking. By purchasing regionally sourced cherry wood, you reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance shipping and support local economies. Many yards also participate in reforestation programs or source from FSC-certified suppliers, ensuring your project aligns with eco-conscious practices. For cabinetmakers, this not only adds value to the finished piece but also tells a story of craftsmanship rooted in community and sustainability.

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Online retailers for cherry wood

Cherry wood's rich, warm tones and fine grain make it a sought-after material for cabinetry, but sourcing it online requires careful consideration. Several specialized retailers cater to woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts, offering a range of cherry wood options in various cuts, grades, and quantities. Hardwood retailers like Woodworkers Source and Bell Forest Products stand out for their extensive selections, often including both domestic and exotic cherry varieties. These platforms typically provide detailed product descriptions, including moisture content and milling specifications, ensuring buyers can make informed decisions.

For those prioritizing convenience and variety, Amazon and eBay offer cherry wood from numerous sellers, though quality can vary widely. When using these marketplaces, scrutinize seller reviews and product images to gauge reliability. Some listings may include shipping costs, which can significantly impact the overall price, so factor this into your budget. Additionally, consider reaching out to sellers directly to request additional information or samples before purchasing.

Specialty lumberyards with online stores, such as The Wood Yard or Hearne Hardwoods, often provide higher-end cherry wood options, including quartersawn or rift-sawn cuts that enhance grain stability and appearance. These retailers frequently cater to professional cabinetmakers and may offer custom milling services. While prices tend to be higher, the quality and customization options justify the investment for premium projects.

A practical tip for online cherry wood purchases is to order slightly more than needed to account for waste during cutting and finishing. Most retailers sell wood by the board foot, so calculate your requirements carefully. For example, a standard cabinet project might require 20–30 board feet, depending on size and design. Always verify the retailer’s return policy, as some may not accept returns on custom-cut or special-order items.

Finally, compare pricing and shipping options across multiple retailers to find the best value. Some platforms offer bulk discounts or free shipping over a certain threshold, which can offset higher per-unit costs. For instance, purchasing a full bundle (typically 50–100 board feet) from a hardwood retailer might yield significant savings compared to buying smaller quantities. By balancing quality, cost, and convenience, you can secure the ideal cherry wood for your cabinetry project.

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Specialty hardwood suppliers

When selecting a specialty supplier, consider their milling capabilities. Many offer custom milling services, such as resurfacing, ripping, or sanding, which can save you time and ensure the wood is ready for immediate use. For cabinetmakers, this is invaluable, as it eliminates the need for additional tools or expertise. Suppliers like *Woodworkers Source* provide detailed specifications for each wood type, including moisture content (typically 6-8% for kiln-dried cherry), ensuring the wood is stable and ready for cabinetry. Always inquire about these services, as they can significantly streamline your workflow.

Another advantage of specialty suppliers is their expertise. Staff members are often seasoned woodworkers themselves, capable of providing advice on grain orientation, joinery techniques, or finishing tips specific to cherry wood. For example, they might recommend using a pre-stain wood conditioner to prevent blotching, a common issue with cherry due to its porous nature. This level of guidance is rarely available at general retailers and can make the difference between a good cabinet and a great one.

Finally, while specialty suppliers may charge a premium, the investment often pays off in durability and appearance. Cherry wood, known for its rich color that deepens with age, requires careful selection to avoid defects like sapwood or excessive knots. Suppliers like *Bell Forest Products* offer FSC-certified cherry, ensuring the wood is ethically sourced and of consistent quality. By prioritizing such suppliers, you not only elevate your craftsmanship but also support sustainable practices in the hardwood industry.

In summary, specialty hardwood suppliers offer a combination of quality, customization, and expertise that general retailers cannot match. Whether you’re a professional cabinetmaker or a DIY enthusiast, partnering with these suppliers ensures your cherry wood cabinets will stand the test of time, both in structure and style.

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Reclaimed cherry wood sources

Reclaimed cherry wood offers a sustainable and character-rich alternative for cabinet projects, but sourcing it requires knowing where to look. Architectural salvage yards are prime locations, often brimming with deconstructed furniture, barn beams, and flooring from older structures. These materials, weathered by time, carry unique grain patterns, knots, and patina that new wood lacks. When visiting, inspect pieces for structural integrity, avoiding those with excessive rot or insect damage. Salvage yards typically price by volume or piece, so measure your cabinet needs beforehand to estimate costs accurately.

For a more curated selection, specialty reclaimed wood suppliers focus exclusively on sourcing and preparing vintage cherry wood. Companies like *Olde Wood Limited* or *Pioneer Millworks* offer kiln-dried, milled planks ready for cabinetry, often with detailed histories of the wood’s origin. While pricier than salvage yards, these suppliers guarantee quality and consistency, ideal for larger or high-end projects. Request samples to test finish compatibility and ensure the wood’s tone aligns with your design vision.

Online marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace can yield unexpected finds, but buyer beware. Verify the seller’s credibility by asking for photos of the wood’s condition and provenance. If possible, arrange local pickup to inspect the wood in person, as shipping large, heavy pieces can be prohibitively expensive. For smaller projects, Etsy sellers often offer reclaimed cherry wood in limited quantities, sometimes already cut into cabinet-friendly dimensions.

DIY enthusiasts can also explore deconstruction projects in their area, where old barns, factories, or homes are being dismantled. Contact local contractors or deconstruction nonprofits (like *The ReUse People*) to inquire about purchasing cherry wood before it’s discarded. This route demands more effort—cleaning, milling, and drying the wood yourself—but rewards you with the lowest cost and deepest connection to the material’s story. Always ensure the wood is legally sourced and free of hazardous treatments like lead paint.

Finally, consider joining woodworking forums or social media groups dedicated to reclaimed materials. Members often share leads on hidden gems, from estate sales to abandoned properties. Networking can also connect you with craftsmen willing to trade or sell excess cherry wood from their own projects. Patience and persistence are key here, as the best finds rarely come quickly but are worth the wait for their unmatched authenticity.

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Home improvement stores with cherry wood

Cherry wood, prized for its rich color and fine grain, is a popular choice for cabinetmaking. Home improvement stores have recognized this demand, offering a range of cherry wood products to cater to DIY enthusiasts and professional woodworkers alike. Stores like Home Depot and Lowe's provide pre-cut cherry wood boards in various dimensions, making it convenient for those looking to build or refurbish cabinets. These stores often stock both domestic and imported cherry wood, allowing customers to choose based on budget and specific project needs. Additionally, many locations offer cutting services, ensuring that the wood is ready for immediate use.

For those seeking a more hands-on approach, specialty home improvement stores such as Menards and Ace Hardware often carry higher-grade cherry wood options. These stores frequently partner with local mills or suppliers, providing fresher, more sustainably sourced materials. While prices may be slightly higher, the quality and uniqueness of the wood can justify the investment, especially for high-end cabinet projects. Some of these stores also offer workshops or tutorials on working with cherry wood, which can be invaluable for beginners.

Online platforms associated with home improvement chains, like Lowe's or Home Depot's websites, expand the accessibility of cherry wood for cabinet projects. These sites often feature detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and delivery options, making it easier to compare and select the right wood without visiting a physical store. Many also offer bulk discounts, which can significantly reduce costs for larger projects. However, it’s essential to verify shipping conditions to ensure the wood arrives undamaged.

One practical tip when purchasing cherry wood from home improvement stores is to inspect the wood for defects, such as knots or warping, before buying. Cherry wood is relatively soft, so it’s crucial to handle it carefully during transport and storage. For cabinet projects, consider purchasing slightly more wood than needed to account for mistakes or imperfections. Finally, inquire about finishing options available at the store, as some offer pre-finished cherry wood that can save time and effort in the long run.

Frequently asked questions

You can purchase cherry wood for cabinets at local lumberyards, specialty hardwood suppliers, or home improvement stores like Lowe's or Home Depot. Check their inventory or ask staff for availability.

Yes, online retailers like Woodworkers Source, Hardwood Lumber Company, and eBay offer cherry wood for cabinets. Ensure to verify shipping costs and wood quality before purchasing.

Consider the wood grade (select, rustic, etc.), thickness, moisture content, and whether it’s kiln-dried. Also, compare prices and read reviews to ensure you’re getting quality material from a reputable supplier.

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