Understanding the beauty of rift sawn white oak, like our Desert Oak.
What is Rift Sawn Wood?
Let’s start with how wood is cut. Rift sawn is one of the most refined and precise ways to slice a white oak log. The boards are cut at a specific angle, between 30-60 degrees, to the log’s rings, which results in:
Straight, clean lines
A super sleek look
Less warping over time
An upscale, modern vibe
The rift sawn method takes more time and effort, so you’ll usually see it in more high-end cabinetry and luxury spaces, like our Desert Oak.
What is Flecking?
Picture this: You’re looking at a white oak cabinet door, and you notice faint streaks running across the grain. This is flecking, and it’s 100% normal and natural. It’s a gorgeous, organic detail that adds movement, softness, and character to the wood.
How Does Flecking Happen?
Flecking comes from medullary rays, tiny structures inside the tree that carry nutrients. When rift-sawn wood is cut, those rays are sliced in a way that reveals their pattern. The result is soft streaks, commonly referred to as rays or flakes. We just call them beautiful.
Why Flecking is Awesome
Flecking adds a natural wow factor for a clean, modern look that designers love. Here’s why:
Natural personality: No two doors have the same flecks. It’s like a fingerprint from the forest
Visual movement: The streaks break up the grain just enough to add visual interest
Soft, organic feel: Flecking adds a touch of warmth to the wood, balancing the sleek lines
Artisanal quality: Flecking is the hallmark of real craftsmanship with real materials
Desert Oak and Flecking
Our Desert Oak finish shows off the flecking in all the right ways. The warm tone, paired with the natural grain and pattern, creates a grounded and modern look that is truly unique. In short, Desert Oak brings character and depth to any space. Flecking is nature’s way of showing off its wild, organic beauty.
Order your Desert Oak sample door to see how it looks and feels in your home and to see the flecking up close!
