Black Walnut
Juglans nigra
Also known as: American Walnut, Eastern Black Walnut
DomesticBeginner-FriendlyMid-RangeFSC Available
Janka Hardness
1,010 lbf
4.5 kN
Density
610 kg/m³
2.56 lbs/bf
Grain
Straight to slightly wavy
Texture: Medium
Figure
Occasional curl, crotch, burl
Drying
Moderate
Movement: Moderate
Origin
Eastern North America
Juglandaceae
Plain-Language Guide
Black Walnut is the wood that earns its reputation. It's genuinely easy to work, forgives beginner mistakes, and produces results that look expensive without fighting you. If you're ready to step past pine or poplar, this is the move.
Common Mistakes
- Using oil finishes directly over walnut without a seal coat — the natural oils can cause adhesion issues with certain topcoats
- Sanding past 180 grit before staining — walnut doesn't need stain, and over-sanding closes the grain
- Ignoring the sapwood — some woodworkers discard it, but the contrast between heartwood and sapwood is a design feature, not a flaw
Color & Appearance
Heartwood
Sapwood
Heartwood is a rich chocolate-brown that lightens over time with UV exposure. Sapwood is pale yellow-white.
Workability
Hand Tools
Good
Machine Tools
Excellent
Gluing
Easy
Finishing
Easy
Turning
Suitable
Carving
Not typically used
One of the most workable domestic hardwoods. Machines, sands, and finishes beautifully. Slight oiliness means some finishes need a barrier coat first.
Global Availability
| Region | Availability |
|---|---|
| North America | Widely available |
| Europe | Regional / select dealers |
| Australia / NZ | Specialty importers only |
| Southeast Asia | Specialty importers only |
| South America | Specialty importers only |
| Africa / Middle East | Specialty importers only |
Health & Safety
Allergen Risk
Moderate
CITES Status
None
Notes
Sensitizer in some individuals. Dust can cause respiratory irritation. Juglone in roots and shavings is toxic to many plants
Common Uses
Furniture Cabinetry Turning Gunstocks Musical instruments Flooring
Sustainability: Abundant in native range. FSC-certified sources available.