No matter how precisely workers cut, how long they clamp or how hard they sand, wood will always be just slightly out of their control. But one thing than can be achieved is the different wood grain patterns in a piece.

Wood is — or rather, it was — alive. Wood grains are a subtle reminder of this growth. They are patterns of the tree’s development, the orientation and density of its cells as it passed through different seasons. No two pieces of wood are identical, even those from the same type of tree, or even those from the exact same tree.

On the technical side of things, the wood grain visible is determined by how the tree was cut. Cutting “with the grain” means that it was cut in the direction that the cells are going, and thus not lifting any small pieces and weakening the wood.

Assuming that the wood species itself is durable enough to be used for the intended piece, the designer can determine the final pattern. Think of wood grain as a subtle brush in Photoshop, or the direction that a pencil moves when doing shading on a drawing.

There are five main pattern types that can be achieved.

Straight grain

As the name implies, straight grain is achieved when the log is cut straight, usually vertically with the grain. This results in the strongest pieces, and therefore size does not have to diminish in favour of durability. It might not be the most exciting looking, it is usually thinner straight grain lines that are close in proximity, but they can still result in great millwork pieces.

Diagonal grain

A diagonal grain is achieved when the log is cut at an angle. The grain it leaves is thicker and farther apart than a straight cut. Although it is aesthetically pleasing, this type of cutting severely weakens the wood, depending on the angle. If durability is important in the design yet a diagonal grain is preferred, there is also the option of layering.

Spiral grains

Spiral grains are a little gift of nature. Some species of wood have more twisting than others, but when cut, they produce a subtle bulls-eye pattern. If the wood is acquired before the millwork drawings are done, these spirals can be specified in a certain location on the millwork piece.

Wavy grains

Highly appreciated in the design industry, wavy grain happens when the wood fibres have slight changes in their direction. Depending on the species, the contrast of the grain varies. But in general, they create a soft undulating pattern. Using this pattern on the face of a drawer or the door of a closet will highlight its qualities.

Irregular grain

For the biggest display of nature’s unpredictability, there is the irregular grain. Wood fibres change direction, but which direction (and how often) remains a mystery. Again, this type of grain is used for decorative purposes, especially when a knot is found. Although great for aesthetic purposes, its beauty is also its weakness.

Due to its unpredictability, these types of grains affect the strength of the wood, thus it is more likely to warp and crack. To get around this issue, the boards are usually cut thicker. This grain is perfect for tabletops or sculptural pieces.

With so many options and combinations, designed millwork pieces can add both function and aesthetics to spaces. The optimization of wood grain can both strengthen the piece while allowing designs to go against the grain, so to speak.

Isabelle Boba is the founder and principal of Lux Design, a Toronto-based interior design firm specializing in unique, luxurious concepts for commercial and residential spaces.