Get Inspired with Our Newly Launched Stains and Finishes Gallery
Canadian Wood has launched a new online Finishes Gallery—a resource designed to help manufacturers, designers, and furniture makers explore the full potential of Western Hemlock and Douglas-fir. With more than 70 finish examples, the gallery highlights the wide spectrum achievable with these two Canadian species.
From pale blondes to deep ebony blacks, and from smooth, flawless surfaces to distressed, wire-brushed textures, the collection demonstrates how you can transform Canadian wood species into uniquely expressive finishes. Search filters make exploration simple—browse by species, shade (light, medium, dark), treatment (smooth, distressed, wire brush), or grain (flat, vertical).
Explore Over 70 Unique Examples
Go to the Stains & Finishes Gallery
Why Western Hemlock and Douglas-fir
Both species have earned a reputation as versatile, reliable performers when it comes to finishing.
- Western Hemlock: fine, even grain that accepts both light and dark finishes with ease, minimizing blotching and producing consistent results. It is especially valued for contemporary neutrals, whitewashed looks, and wire-brushed treatments that highlight subtle textures.
- Douglas-fir: naturally strong and bold-grained, making it ideal for dramatic contrasts and darker finishes that emphasize depth, durability, and character.
Together, these species offer designers a flexible palette—whether the goal is sleek modern minimalism or rich, rustic warmth. Their adaptability ensures reliable performance across a range of aesthetics, from antique-inspired patinas to clean-lined contemporary designs.
Versatile, Sustainable and Responsibly Harvested
Beyond their beauty, both Western Hemlock and Douglas-fir are responsibly harvested and provide what can be an environmentally conscious alternative to rare or challenging to source hardwoods. Their adaptability and consistent quality make them trusted choices for high-end furniture and cabinetry worldwide.
About Canadian Wood
Canadian Wood is part of Forestry Innovation Investment (FII), a Crown agency of the Government of British Columbia, headquartered in B.C., Canada, with satellite offices in Vietnam and India. Through market development programs, Canadian Wood promotes and supplies information about softwood products from British Columbia to wood industry professionals, and connects furniture manufacturers, designers and wholesalers with leading softwood suppliers from B.C.
Try Canadian Wood
Looking for the right grade and wood species to achieve the desired design, color and appearance for your next project? To help you better understand the color and overall appearance of Canadian softwoods, Canadian Wood offers small wood samples for you to work with. Contact us to find out more.