7 Wood Grain Comparison You Need to Know

Wood grain is the pattern of the wood fibers in a piece of lumber. It affects the appearance, strength, and workability of the wood. Different types of wood have different grain patterns, and even within the same species, there can be variations depending on the growing conditions and the cut of the lumber.

In this article, we will compare 7 common types of wood grain and explain their advantages and disadvantages for various woodworking projects. We will also provide some tips on how to identify and work with different wood grains.

Types of Wood Grain

There are two main categories of wood grain: face grain and end grain. Face grain is the surface of the wood that is parallel to the direction of the growth rings. End grain is the surface of the wood that is perpendicular to the direction of the growth rings.

Face grain can be further divided into three types: straight, spiral, and interlocked. Straight grain is when the wood fibers run parallel to each other along the length of the board. Spiral grain is when the wood fibers twist around the axis of the tree. Interlocked grain is when the wood fibers change direction at regular intervals, creating a wavy or irregular pattern.

End grain can also be classified into three types: flat, quarter, and rift. Flat grain is when the growth rings are wide and parallel to the face of the board. Quarter grain is when the growth rings are narrow and perpendicular to the face of the board. Rift grain is when the growth rings are at an angle to the face of the board.