What is American Black Cherry Veneer?
American Black Cherry veneer is a medium reddish brown color that quickly darkens. Its natural color will go four to five shades darker from exposure to light and air. It has a fine texture and is rich looking with a smooth, mostly even grain with some wavy effect. It stains well to imitate mahogany, if desired, and finishes to an impressive luster. Most woodworkers stain Cherry veneer dark. Cherry veneer often has a lot of gum which is the dark markings that are spread throughout the veneer.
The price of Cherry veneer is moderate from lower grade to the more expensive architectural grade, which is free of knots and gum.
Available Cuts and Matching Options
Cherry veneer is available in:
- Cuts: Flat Cut (plain slice), Quarter Cut, Rift Cut, Figured, Ropy Cherry, and Rustic Planked Knotty.
- Matching: Cherry veneer sheets can be Book Matched, Plank Matched (similar to solid boards), and Slip Matched.
Black Cherry Veneer Synonyms and Similar Species
- Other Names: Cabinet Cherry, New England Mahogany
- Similar To: South American Mahogany, European Cherry
- Source Region: North America
Color and Aging Characteristics
This veneer is a medium reddish brown that darkens quickly. You can expect the natural color to go four to five shades darker from exposure to light and air.
Common Uses for Flat Cut Cherry Veneer
American Black Cherry veneer is a versatile material often used in high-end, custom woodworking projects such as:
- Furniture and case goods
- Retail fixtures
- Motorhome interiors
- Elevator lobbies and yacht interiors
- Antique restoration and refinish
- Musical instruments
- Libraries and residential projects (e.g., kitchens and custom millwork)
- Commercial projects and much more.
