What is Grain?

Grain refers to the texture and pattern of the fibers in wood or other natural materials, such as leather or stone. The grain of a piece of wood is determined by the direction, size, and arrangement of its fibers, and can vary widely depending on the species of tree, the cut of the wood, and other factors.

Wood grain can be classified into three main types: straight grain, spiral grain, and interlocked grain. Straight grain runs parallel to the length of the board and is the most common type of grain. Spiral grain occurs when the fibers twist around the length of the tree trunk, while interlocked grain is when the fibers change direction within the same board, creating a complex pattern.

Grain can greatly affect the appearance and quality of wood products, as well as their strength and durability. For example, straight-grained wood is typically easier to work with and less prone to splitting than interlocked or spiral-grained wood. The unique patterns and textures of different grains can also be highlighted or accentuated through woodworking techniques such as staining, sanding, and carving.