7 Replies

Cherry will darken on its own naturally, it will take about a year to reach full richness and patina. It cannot be improved upon, do not stain cherry.

I used to work in office furnishings and remember some really beautiful cherry desks. I’ve never seen walnut and cherry together but expect its lovely. Post pics!

Don’t stain the cherry…let it stain itself. It might take a while but it will darken A LOT and the result is quite beautiful.

I’m not a big fan of staining period. I’d much rather look at the natural wood, but you have to appease those you are building for (especially your wife). If it were me, I’d purchase Alder since it is less expensive, but looks similar enough to cherry, and stain that instead. Another thing you might try is to set the cherry out in the sun for a few hours, flipping it half way. the sun will darken the cherry slightly, and may be enough to get the warmth your wife is looking for. Good luck! Can’t wait to see the results, no matter which way you go!

For a finish you might try Danish oil as you have experience with oil finishes. It also comes colored so no need to stain it first.

Yep, I second the motion on Danish oil. Here’s a Garden of Innocence urn I did in cherry and walnut with Watco brand Danish Oil on it. The oil comes in several colors. This one is called "natural "

+1 for danish oil. It’s what I reach for every time. I also like the natural color. No need for additional s stains on most things.

Thanks for responses. Danish oil it is!