Whether you’re building kitchen cabinets, furniture, or interior doors, the right grade can make all the difference in yield, cost, and appearance.
For Cabinets
Cabinets are where Alder truly shines. Its fine, even grain takes stain or paint beautifully, and its predictable machining makes it a favorite for high-volume production and custom shops alike.
| Grade | Look | Best For | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Superior |
Clear, uniform, cherry-like appearance |
Premium kitchens, furniture-grade cabinetry |
Highest yield and fewest defects; ideal when every surface is visible. |
|
Cabinet (Mid-Grade) |
Clean but natural look with subtle variation |
Face-frame cabinets, cabinet doors, and built-ins |
Best balance of cost and appearance. Machines smoothly, stains uniformly, and provides excellent yield for production work. |
|
CAB (Mid-Grade Mix) |
Some clear areas, some character |
Drawer sides, bookcases, cabinet interiors |
Great option when only the front faces matter; clear sections where you need them, character where you don’t. |
|
#1 Jacket Board |
Narrow cutting grade with good lengths and sound back |
Great for stiles and rails |
Good price for the clear fiber cuttings |
|
Custom Shop / Premium |
Knotty, rustic character |
Farmhouse or lodge-style kitchens |
Adds texture and warmth; lower cost and perfect for natural finishes. |
| Grade | Look | Best For | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Superior / 1F |
Clear, consistent, elegant |
Headboards, case sides, visible surfaces |
Excellent yield and flawless finish quality |
|
Cabinet / CAB |
Clean grain with light character |
Drawer fronts, legs, small tables |
Ideal mid-grade choice. Machines well, stains evenly, and provides good yield for small-format parts. |
|
Custom Shop / Premium |
Rustic or knotty |
Accent furniture, farmhouse or lodge styles |
Emphasizes authenticity and handcrafted look at lower cost. |
For Doors & Millwork
Combining structural integrity with an exceptionally consistent grain, Alder delivers dependable performance and a level of visual refinement that few other species can match.
| Grade | Look | Best For | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Superior |
Clear, refined |
High-end interior or entry doors |
Maximum yield and consistent tone for upscale applications. |
|
Cabinet / CAB |
Clean but natural |
Interior doors and decorative panels |
Best value. Smooth surface for finishing, light variation for natural appeal. |
|
Premium |
Knotty, rustic |
Rustic mountain or farmhouse doors |
Celebrates natural character with strong, durable stock. |
The Bottom Line
If you’re searching for an alternative species that’s flexible for different design and colors, alder is simply the most versatile hardwood for cabinets, furniture and millwork. While Superior grades deliver flawless appearance, Cabinet and CAB provide the balance of yield, cost, and appearance, which is exactly what most builders, designers, and makers are looking for.
Ready to elevate your projects with Alder? Contact your Account Manager today to learn more about how Alder can transform your products.
Resources
Share This Post!
