

Premier–1–45
Dark Finishes on Character Cherry
Character Cherry
DOCUMENT OF UNDERSTANDING SPECIAL EFFECTS
(continued)
Dark finishes and paints on character cherry will hide the majority of
character features. Large open knots and some splits, if present, may still
be partially visible. Character features are more noticeable on Natural or
lighter toned finishes.
Characteristics:
Character cherry has very different characteristics than standard cherry
and other woods giving it an overall distinctive rustic appearance. Its
characteristics are brought out by randomly occurring, variously sized
knots, worm holes and tracks, gum pockets and streaks, mineral stains and
streaks, burls, blemishes, sapwood, and non-structural splits. The amount
of character marks will vary from each piece of wood making each kitchen
unique. Character cherry will include wood color differences that can
range from pink to dark brown with a flowing grain pattern.
Knot Specifications:
While knots in character cherry are more rare than in character maple, it
is possible to find open and closed knots with some knots possibly located
in the center panel of door and drawer panels. Cluster knots could also be
a feature. Open knots located in the center panel of the door and drawer
panels are acceptable, though they must be structurally sound. Sound or
closed knots are acceptable up to 2½” in diameter. Knots with visible
openings entirely through the wood must not exceed ½.” Some knot
locations may affect hardware placement.
Accessories:
Other parts of the cabinet, like door stiles, rails and mouldings, will not include knots, but may show character cherry’s other
natural features. However, it will be uncommon to find all markings on any single piece. Door parts are chosen at random
with the appearance of each individual door varying widely from a great amount of character to relatively clear cherry. It could
occur that a part will be clear cherry as well. Cabinet face frames, end panels, and open cabinets (such as bookcases and other
components) will not include knots; however they may appear with grain characteristics of character and/or clear cherry.
The color of character cherry will darken and mellow over time. This change is more evident in light finishes and is most
noticeable within the first 6 months. Exposure to strong light sources, such as the sun, will accelerate this process. The natural
characteristics of character cherry, including variations in grain patterns and color, are not considered reasons for product
replacement and are not covered under the Warranty Program. We recommend viewing a door sample prior to ordering.
Cherry Wood Species
Beautiful markings such as occasional clusters of tiny pin knots or very small dark streaks of gum set cherry apart from any
other hardwood. Cherry includes sapwood that is white to yellowish and heartwood that is reddish brown. It is the nature and
beauty of solid wood to vary somewhat in color and grain characteristics and, due to this nature, no two trees are alike. Exposure
to sunlight, smoke, household chemicals and other environmental conditions will affect the color of the finish through time.
Every wood species exhibits additional characteristics with age such as darkening of grain, pinholes and sap runs. Cherry wood
ages noticeably faster than other wood species. The aging process occurs more quickly and is more noticeable in lighter finishes.