What Wood Pairs Well With Hickory


Looking for a new wood to use in your next project? Hickory is a great option! This type of wood is strong and durable, making it perfect for furniture, flooring, and other large projects. But what can you pair with Hickory to create the perfect look?

What Woods Pair Well With Hickory?

There are a few different types of wood that pair well with Hickory. Some of the most popular include Maple, Cherry, and Oak. Each of these woods has its unique grain pattern and color that can help to create a beautiful contrast with the Hickory.

When choosing wood to pair with Hickory, it is important to consider the overall style of the project. For a more traditional look, Maple or Cherry would be a good choice. If you are going for a more rustic feel, then Oak would be a better option.

What Is Hickory And What Are Its Characteristics

Hickory is a type of hardwood that is commonly used in the manufacture of tool handles, ladder rungs, wheel spokes, flooring, etc. The tree is native to China, India, and Indochina, as many as twelve species are native to the US, four are found in Mexico, and two to four are native to Canada. Hickory trees can grow to be quite large, with some specimens reaching heights of up to  65-100 ft.

Hickory is a slow-growing tree, which means that it can take several years for the wood to reach maturity. However, once it does, the resulting lumber is very strong and durable. The wood is heavy, hard, and stiff. This combination of properties makes Hickory ideally suited for a variety of uses.

One downside to Hickory wood is that it is susceptible to attack by insects and fungi. In addition, the wood can decay if it comes into contact with moisture. For this reason, Hickory is often used in the construction of indoor furniture and structures.

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How To Stain And Finish Hickory Wood

Start by sanding the wood with a medium-grit sandpaper. Sand in the direction of the grain to avoid creating scratches. Once you’ve gone over the entire surface, use a vacuum or damp cloth to remove any dust particles.

Now it’s time to apply the stain. For best results, use a rag or brush designed for staining. Apply the stain in long, even strokes, working in the direction of the grain. Be sure to wipe away any excess stain immediately.

Once the stain has dried completely, it’s time to apply a finish. You can use either a natural or synthetic finish, depending on your preferences. If you want a natural look, go with a beeswax or oil-based finish. For something more durable, choose a polyurethane finish. Apply the finish in the same way you applied the stain, using long, even strokes.

And that’s it! Once the finish has dried, your hickory wood will be ready to use. Enjoy your new stain and finish, and be sure to show it off to all your friends!

Hickory has a beautiful grain pattern that can be enhanced with the right type of finish. When choosing a stain or finish for your Hickory project, keep in mind that its natural colors range from pale yellow to dark brown.

Many different types of stains and finishes can be used on Hickory. Some of the most popular options include oil-based stains, water-based stains, gel stains, and lacquers. You can also choose to leave your Hickory unfinished if you prefer its natural look.

When staining Hickory, it is important to use a stain that is designed for hardwoods. This will help to ensure that the stain penetrates deep into the wood and does not just sit on the surface. It is also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when applying any type of finish to Hickory.

Examples Of Projects That Use Hickory Wood

Hickory is a strong, durable wood that is perfect for many different projects. 

Some of the most popular projects that use hickory wood are:

  • Tool handles: Hickory is the perfect wood for tool handles because it is strong and durable.
  • Ladder rungs: Hickory is also a good choice for ladder rungs because it will not splinter or crack under pressure.
  • Wheel spokes: Hickory is often used for wheel spokes because it can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
  • Flooring: Hickory is a popular choice for flooring because it is beautiful and long-lasting.

If you are looking for strong, durable wood for your next project, consider Hickory.

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Do Oak And Hickory Go Together?

Yes, Oak and hickory go well together. Hickory and Oak are two of the most popular woods used in home construction and design. 

They are two hardwoods with prominent grains, so they can easily clash when you used them in the same space. If you are careful about your design and take the time to consider how the two kinds of wood will work together, you can create a beautiful and cohesive look.

Here are a few tips for pairing Oak and Hickory in your home:

  • Use different finishes: Hickory and Oak are both beautiful in their natural state, but you can also experiment with different finishes to create a unique look. For example, you could use a light stain on the Hickory and a dark stain on the Oak.
  • Mix and match furniture: Another way to pair these two kinds of wood is to mix and match furniture. For example, you could use a Hickory coffee table with an Oak dresser.
  • Use different colors: If you want to make the two kinds of wood stand out, you can use different colors. For example, you could paint the walls a light color and use Hickory and Oak accents throughout the room.

With a little bit of thought and planning, you can create a beautiful space that features both hickory and oak. So don’t be afraid to experiment with these two popular kinds of wood!

What Kind Of Flooring Looks Good With Hickory Cabinets?

There are a few different types of flooring that can compliment Hickory cabinets. 

One option that can give your kitchen a rustic look is reclaimed wood flooring. If you want to go for something a little more modern, then bamboo or cork flooring are also great choices. And if you’re looking for something classic and timeless, then hardwood floors are always a good option.

So there are a lot of different choices out there when it comes to what kind of flooring will look good with Hickory cabinets. Just pick the one that you think will look best in your kitchen and go for it!

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Kevin Nelson

I will always have a special place in my heart for woodworking. I have such fond memories working on projects with my parents on the weekends in the garage growing up. We built tables, shelves, a backyard shed, 10' base for a water slide into the pool, 2 story fort playhouse with a fire pole, and so much more. This woodworking blog allows me to write helpful articles so others can enjoy woodworking as much as we have.

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