Wood Choices

🪵 Wood Choices

At 3 Dogs Woodworking, we believe the wood tells part of the story. Below are the species we use most often, grouped by category. Each type carries distinct qualities—from strength and grain to tone and workability.

🌳 Domestic Hardwoods

Classic materials with reliable grain structure—excellent for cutting boards, cribbage builds, and heritage commissions.

Maple

Cherry

Black Walnut

Red Oak

White Oak

⚠️ Cutting Board Advisory: Red oak and white oak contain natural tannins. When exposed to moisture and iron (e.g., metal utensils), they can develop black discoloration. For this reason, red and white oak are not considered for cutting board builds.

🌲 Domestic Softwoods

Used for decorative accents, outdoor pieces, and select projects—but never for cutting boards due to their low density and porous grain.

Pine

Knotty Pine

Aromatic Cedar

⚠️ Cutting Board Advisory: Softwoods are not suitable for cutting boards due to low hardness and absorbency. Additionally, cedar contains tannins that may cause discoloration when wet and in contact with iron.

🌍 Exotic Hardwoods

Striking colors, bold grain, and unique personality—ideal for statement builds, accents, and artistic commissions.

Padauk

Purple Heart

Canary Wood

Yellow Heart

Wenge

White Wenge

Zebra Wood

Black Limba

💰 Exotic Wood Disclaimer: Exotic hardwoods carry an additional charge due to premium cost and limited availability. Not all species are stocked year-round—reach out for current options.