Tiger Maple Furniture From Amish Woodworkers - Pieces and FAQ

Curious to learn about other wood species? Read our guides to oak, cherry wood, and even outdoor-friendly poly wood.

When you collaborate with brands like Countryside Amish Furniture who let you tailor pieces however you like, there’s no rules or limitations on how you can use tiger maple in your furniture. However, to help fuel your imagination, below are specific ways we love to incorporate tiger maple into designs.

Our absolute favorite way to showcase tiger maple is through two-tone furniture. This approach not only creates stunning contrasts that enhance the warmth and character of the tiger maple but also offers practical benefits. Given that tiger maple is among the most expensive wood species, blending it with another hardwood allows you to display its nuanced tones and grain while also managing your budget effectively.


 

One much-beloved strategy for introducing tiger maple to the bedroom is by using it to enhance the fronts of drawers and headboards.

For additional ideas, check out our assortment of bedroom furniture shown in two tones.

Tiger maple is quite compatible with high-end metal bases, offering a true juxtaposition of organic textures with a cool, industrial touch.

In a similar vein as the above, tiger maple works wonders to make specific furniture features pop. For instance, the Hay Library Table offers tiger maple as one of its options for a desktop in-lay. Unlike using tiger maple in two-tone furniture, these examples use it in small but purposeful quantities, ultimately providing a more affordable way to invite this in-demand wood into your designs. 

As acknowledged throughout this article, tiger maple is one of the more costlier wood options at your fingertips. Therefore, some people integrate it into their space by selecting smaller yet significant pieces because the reduced amount of wood means the tiger maple won’t necessarily drive the cost up by thousands.

Opt for natural stains - Considering the rich character of tiger maple, choose a furniture stain that allows the wood's natural grain and figuring to show through while adding depth and richness to its appearance. 

Light vs. dark stains: Tiger maple can accommodate both light and dark stains. Our recommendation is to order multiple samples to be sent directly to your home so you can determine which specific option best aligns with your existing decor.


 

Choose high-end varnishes to protect your tiger maple furniture: While there are multiple protective finishes available, Countryside Amish Furniture uses a post-catalyst conversion varnish because it’s simply the best. This finish protects against rot, stains, and moisture damage, surpassing lacquer-based products. What’s more, its protective exterior lessens the impact of bumps and scrapes, reinforcing the tiger maple furniture’s integrity for generations to come.

Our commitment goes beyond creating beautiful pieces; it's about realizing your unique vision. We collaborate closely with you, allowing you to select the hardwood and customize dimensions and features to suit your preferences perfectly. Our point? Even if a furniture piece isn’t shown or documented as being available in Tiger Maple, our team can make it happen!

When we place quality tiger maple into the hands of Amish woodworking masters, furniture magic happens! Our artisans forego shortcuts, instead using trusted furniture-building techniques to patiently create each piece one at a time. In turn, you can own an embodiment of Amish tradition and American furniture craftsmanship.

How does the price of tiger maple compare to other wood species?
Tiger maple, with its distinct grain pattern and rich hue, commands a premium price compared to many other solid wood options offered by Countryside Amish Furniture, including oak, white oak, cherry, elm, and maple. In fact, only walnut wood is pricier. 
 

What is the difference between tiger maple and curly maple?
Oftentimes, the two terms are used interchangeably, along with other monikers like “flame maple,” “ripple maple,” and “fiddleback.”



 

Where does tiger maple furniture come from?
Tiger maple is typically sourced from various species of maple trees, with the most common being Acer saccharum (sugar maple) and Acer rubrum (red maple) found in places like Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, Ontario, and Quebec. The unique figure or pattern found in Tiger Maple wood is a result of the tree's growth characteristics and can vary depending on factors such as soil composition, climate, and genetics.
 

How should I clean tiger maple furniture? 
For the best results, limit direct sunlight exposure and use gentle cleaners, steering clear of bleach and ammonia-based cleaners. Regular maintenance involves wiping down the wood with a soft, damp cloth or mild soap, with the occasional use of furniture polish.