wood swatches

Penelope Fleet
12 min readJun 18, 2024

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Get ready to fall in love with an array of stunning wood swatches! In this comprehensive roundup, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular and visually appealing wooden options available on the market. From the warm, inviting hues of a rustic cabin to the sleek sophistication of a contemporary office, there’s a wood swatch to suit every style and preference. Dive in and explore the possibilities for your next project!

The Top 10 Best wood swatches

  1. Natural Wood Variety Pack: Padauk, Zebrawood, Purpleheart, Merbau — Imported Exotic Hardwood Set — Enhance your woodworking projects with this stunning Imported Exotic Hardwood Variety Pack, featuring Padauk, Zebrawood, Purpleheart, and Merbau, offering exceptional quality and natural beauty for your next masterpiece.
  2. Chestnut Room Darkening Wood Blind Swatch — Experience the authentic warmth and protection of the LEVOLOR Chestnut Real Wood Blinds with its rich brown shade, perfect for darkening rooms and preserving your treasured belongings.
  3. Bali Northern Heights Maple Wood Blinds Swatch Darkening — Brown | 09B-1039 — Experience the stylish touch of the Bali Northern Heights Maple Room Darkening Wood Horizontal Blinds Swatch in Brown, now with three slat sizes and optional routeless upgrade for enhanced privacy and convenience.
  4. Custom Thermally Modified Wood Swatches — 6-Pack Set (Natural Brown) — Elevate your home’s aesthetic with the durability and natural beauty of thermally modified UFP-Edge accent boards in six-pack of natural brown.
  5. Timberchic Reclaimed Wood Wall Plank for Sandy Beach Accents — Transform your space into a cozy summer retreat with Timberchic’s reclaimed beach wood planks, offering easy DIY installation and a stylish beachy look at an affordable price.
  6. Rustic Wood Paneling for Easy Nail Up Application — Transform your space with authentic, reclaimed barn wood paneling, perfect for rustic decor and easy installation with Rockin’ Wood’s Reclaimed Weathered Wood Panels.
  7. Easy Planking Brown Barn Wood Wall Planks for Decor — Revitalize your home or business with these thermo-treated DIY wall planks, providing a visually appealing, insect-free, and eco-friendly solution for decorative needs in various environments.
  8. Levolor Horizontal Swatch in Golden Oak — High Gloss Room Darkening Brown — Experience the timeless elegance and exceptional quality of LEVOLOR Real Wood Blinds with their high gloss golden oak horizontal swatch, designed to darken your room and protect your interiors from harmful sun exposure.
  9. Easy Planking: Thermo-Treated, Grain, Pearl, Warp-Resistant Barn Wood Wall Panels — Unleash instant timeless elegance with Easy Planking’s sustainable, versatile, and stunning thermo-treated 3D barn wood wall panels, perfect for transforming any space.
  10. LEVOLOR Brown Wood Swatch for Darkening Room — Introducing the LEVOLOR Colonial Pine Room Darkening Wood Horizontal Swatch in Brown — experience the luxury of real wood while protecting your room from fading with our top-quality blinds.

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Reviews

Natural Wood Variety Pack: Padauk, Zebrawood, Purpleheart, Merbau — Imported Exotic Hardwood Set

A few weeks ago, I stumbled upon an imported exotic hardwood variety pack, which included Padauk, Zebrawood, Purpleheart, and Merbau. As a DIY enthusiast, I couldn’t resist giving it a try. To my delight, the wood pieces arrived in perfect condition, and I could immediately see the beautiful grain patterns that I had only heard about before.

The quality was exceptional, with each piece kiln-dried and two sides sanded to a 3/4-inch thickness. The variety pack is an amazing value, as it allows you to work with different exotic woods without having to invest in separate purchases. However, the downside to this variety is the need for greater care while handling due to the unique nature of each wood type.

Overall, I’m quite pleased with my experience using this imported exotic hardwood variety pack. It has expanded my creativity and added a touch of luxury to my projects.

Chestnut Room Darkening Wood Blind Swatch

I recently had the chance to test out a Levolor Chestnut Room Darkening Wood Horizontal Swatch in Brown (SW2SW00102777). This swatch is perfect for envisioning the rich, woody aesthetic within any living space. The horizontal wooden pattern adds a touch of rustic charm to any area and can give a room an unexpected pop of texture.

One thing that stood out to me was the light control offered by these wooden swatches. The room darkening feature is exceptionally effective at blocking direct sun exposure, which can protect furniture, artwork, and flooring from potential fading.

However, there are a couple of drawbacks I should mention. Although this swatch is made with Asian hardwood, it doesn’t appear to be moisture resistant. Additionally, the style options are not exclusive to Levolor, meaning you could find similar designs from other brands. Nevertheless, this swatch provides a valuable tool for visualizing potential changes in your home decor before making any significant purchases.

Bali Northern Heights Maple Wood Blinds Swatch Darkening — Brown | 09B-1039

I recently had the chance to try these Northern Heights Maple Room Darkening Wood Horizontal Blinds in brown. They offer seamless room darkening, providing an inviting and cozy atmosphere in my space. The ease of use is top-notch, as they come in three different slat sizes, allowing for a customized fit. What’s even better, this NoHoles routeless blind design brings a level of privacy I’ve never experienced before.

While I enjoyed the look and performance of these blinds, there was one area where they could have improved — durability. After a few months, they started to show some wear, especially in areas where the blind was frequently in motion. But overall, the pros of having a comfortable, functional, and stylish product outweigh this one cons.

These Bali Northern Heights Maple Room Darkening Wood Horizontal Blinds Swatches are a great choice for anyone looking to enhance the aesthetic and functionality of their windows.

Custom Thermally Modified Wood Swatches — 6-Pack Set (Natural Brown)

Experience the beauty of nature with UFP-Edge Thermally Modified Wood accent boards. Their striking texture combined with warm tones makes them a perfect addition to any interior or exterior project.

These boards are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also remarkably durable due to the all-natural thermally modified process. Enjoy the peace of mind these lightweight, stable panels provide with their resistance to rot, shrinking, and expansion. Available in various colors, including a beautiful natural option, the accent boards can be used on walls and ceilings, both indoors and outdoors.

But remember, natural wood tones can vary, making each board unique and full of character. Ensure consistent color by ordering extra to accommodate for the variation. Keep in mind, these accent boards are not suitable for ground contact and should be sealed to preserve their color.

Timberchic Reclaimed Wood Wall Plank for Sandy Beach Accents

Introducing Timberchic’s stunning Sandy Beach wood planks, reclaimed from Northern Maine lakes and expertly crafted into a truly unique wall design solution. Priced per square foot, you’ll adore the ease of ordering and its flexibility with planks ranging from 12-inch to 42-inch in length.

These thin, peel-and-stick planks are pre-finished with 3M double-sided tape, making installation a breeze, even without professional help. With a variety of customization options available, Timberchic provides a fresh, attractive touch to your space that’s guaranteed to captivate your guests.

Rustic Wood Paneling for Easy Nail Up Application

Bring your walls to life with the natural beauty of Rockin’ Wood’s Reclaimed Weathered Wood Panels. These rustic, authentic barn wood panels boast a beautiful, aged look that adds a touch of charm to your space.

Each panel variation is unique, featuring nail holes, knotholes, and other rustic characteristics for an authentic feel. With easy nail-up installation, the industrial-strength adhesive ensures a quick and sturdy application. Measure and cut each plank to fit your wall, ensuring an accent that’s tailored to your room.

These panels, easy to install and full of character, are a perfect addition to any rustic decor.

Easy Planking Brown Barn Wood Wall Planks for Decor

I recently tried this Easy Planking Thermo-treated 1/4 in. x 5 in.

x 4 ft. Brown Barn Wood Wall Planks, and I must say, it was a breeze to install!

The DIY installation kit made the process a breeze, and I appreciate that the fasteners were included in the box. The thermally-treated wood had a smooth finish, and the planks didn’t shrink, cup, or move on the wall, which was a major plus. The product is also eco-friendly, made from American lumber, and suitable for high humidity environments like kitchens or bathrooms.

The only downside I noticed was the occasional split in the wood, which required some extra care when nailing the planks to the wall. Overall, I’m thrilled with the unique look of the barnwood, and it’s definitely a conversation starter in my home.

Levolor Horizontal Swatch in Golden Oak — High Gloss Room Darkening Brown

The LEVOLOR High Gloss Golden Oak Room Darkening Wood Horizontal Swatch in Brown offers a luxurious and realistic wood blind experience, without the mess and hassle of natural wood. This swatch is perfect for homeowners looking to match their furnishings and create a warm and welcoming ambiance.

Featuring a rich high gloss finish in golden oak, these wood swatches are an excellent choice for any room in your home. They not only add a touch of elegance, but also provide room-darkening properties, keeping your interiors cozy and protected from harsh sunlight. Made of high-quality Asian hardwood, these horizontal blinds not only exude natural beauty but are also moisture resistant.

While some may prefer Lowe’s exclusive wood swatches, this offering by LEVOLOR is an excellent alternative. It effortlessly adds charm and style to any living space, promising practicality, durability, and aesthetic appeal.

Easy Planking: Thermo-Treated, Grain, Pearl, Warp-Resistant Barn Wood Wall Panels

I recently had the opportunity to try out these Easy Planking Thermo-treated wall planks, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint! As soon as I received the package, I was captivated by the intricate and unique pattern on the planks. I was eager to start the installation process, but I quickly realized that the panels were actually nail-on instead of glue-on, which was a bit of a surprise for me.

Despite this, I managed to get them installed, and the result was truly breathtaking. The wall panels had an impressive 3D texture that really added depth and character to my room. I particularly appreciated the precaution of leaving a small gap between the planks for expansion, ensuring that the panels stayed stable and warp-resistant, as advertised.

In terms of durability, the thermo-treated wood panels provided the perfect look and feel of aged lumber, while still remaining eco-friendly. The installation process was relatively easy, especially for someone who was new to this type of project. The nail strip included made the installation process a breeze.

However, I did come across a minor issue with the nails that were provided. They required a special gun to apply, which was not mentioned in the product description. I had to purchase additional nails to complete the installation. While this was a minor inconvenience, it did not take away from the overall quality and appeal of the product.

In conclusion, if you’re in search of a unique and stylish wall decoration, these Easy Planking Thermo-treated wood panels are definitely worth considering. They’re easy to install, durable, and add a timeless, rustic charm to any space.

LEVOLOR Brown Wood Swatch for Darkening Room

Experience the timeless charm of LEVOLOR’s Colonial Pine Room Darkening Wood Horizontal Swatch in Brown (SW1SW00178082). Crafted from high-quality Asian hardwood, this swatch offers a rich, natural look to your decor. Its room-darkening feature provides excellent light control, protecting your furniture, artwork, and flooring from fading due to direct sun exposure.

While many users appreciate the authentic wooden texture and the darkening effect, a few have noted that these blinds are not moisture-resistant. Nonetheless, the LEVOLOR Colonial Pine Room Darkening Wood Horizontal Swatch in Brown makes a beautiful addition to any home, blending style and functionality effortlessly.

Buyer’s Guide

When shopping for wood swatches, it’s essential to consider various factors to ensure you get the best product for your needs. This buyer’s guide will walk you through the most important features, considerations, and general advice for selecting the perfect wood swatches. Remember, this guide does not include specific product picks or external resource links.

Material Variety

Wood swatches are available in various materials, including real wood, laminates, and engineered woods. Each material has its unique properties, such as color, grain, and texture. Real wood swatches are ideal for those seeking the natural look and feel of wood. Laminates and engineered woods offer alternatives with greater durability and lower costs. When selecting swatches, consider the material’s suitability for your intended use.

Size and Quantity

The size of the wood swatches and the quantity you receive is another crucial factor. Some brands offer smaller swatches, making it challenging to evaluate the color and texture. As a result, it’s recommended to choose larger swatches, typically measuring 8x12 inches. Additionally, the quantity can vary. Purchasing a few more swatches than needed can be helpful for comparing different options.

Coating and Finishing

Consider the coating and finishing on the wood swatches. The finish can impact the appearance and durability of the swatches. Look for coatings that offer UV protection to maintain the swatch’s color and texture over time. Some swatches even come with both sides coated, offering better versatility for testing different finishes.

Storage and Packaging

Storage and packaging are essential for preserving the swatches and making them easy to access. Look for a packaging method that protects the swatches from damage during transportation. Additionally, if you need to store the swatches for an extended period, choose a brand that offers storage solutions or resealable packaging. These features are particularly helpful for those purchasing in large quantities.

FAQ

What are wood swatches?

Wood swatches are samples or small pieces of wood that help homeowners and interior designers visualize the appearance of different types of wood before making a decision for their furniture or home decor. They come in varying sizes, shapes, and finishes, making it easier for buyers to choose the wood that best suits their taste and style.

Wood swatches can also be used for matching existing furniture or woodwork in a room. By comparing the swatch to the existing woodwork, homeowners can ensure a cohesive and harmonious look throughout their space. They are available in a wide range of materials, including hardwoods, softwoods, and engineered woods, and can be purchased individually or in sets.

What are the benefits of using wood swatches?

Wood swatches offer several advantages, including convenience, cost-effectiveness, and accuracy. By providing a physical sample of the wood, they allow buyers to see the wood grain patterns, color variations, and texture before making a purchase. This can save time and money, as buyers can make informed decisions without having to order a full-sized piece of furniture or woodwork.

Wood swatches can also help in color-matching, ensuring that the selected wood is compatible with the existing color scheme of the room. This can help create a harmonious and cohesive look in a space. Additionally, they can be used for testing stains, sealants, and other wood treatments, allowing buyers to experiment with different finishes before applying them to their woodwork.

How can I use wood swatches for my home decor project?

To use wood swatches for your home decor project, start by collecting a variety of swatches that represent the different types of wood you are considering for your project. You can purchase these swatches from home improvement stores, online retailers, or directly from the manufacturer. Make sure to consider the size, shape, and finish of each swatch, as they may vary between brands and products.

Once you have a selection of swatches, lay them out on a flat surface, such as a table or a cutting board. Arrange them next to each other, ensuring that they are evenly spaced. This will give you a better understanding of the differences between the woods and how they will look in your space. You can also use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the width, length, and thickness of each swatch, which can help you compare the materials side by side.

What types of wood are available in wood swatches?

Wood swatches come in a variety of types of wood, including hardwoods and softwoods, as well as engineered woods. Some common hardwoods used in wood swatches are oak, mahogany, cherry, maple, and walnut. Softwoods, such as pine, cedar, and spruce, are also available in swatches. Engineered woods, such as bamboo and reclaimed wood, are becoming increasingly popular in swatches as well due to their durability and eco-friendliness.

It is essential to consider the characteristics of the wood you choose, such as its durability, maintenance requirements, and environmental impact, when selecting wood swatches for your project. Additionally, you can ask the retailer or manufacturer for more information about the specific type of wood used in the swatches to ensure that it meets your needs and preferences.

How do I clean and maintain wood swatches?

To clean and maintain wood swatches, start by gently dusting them with a soft-bristled brush or a feather duster. If the swatches have more pronounced dirt or grime, you can use a soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution to clean them. Make sure to avoid using water or any abrasive materials, as this can damage the finish or the wood itself.

To prevent damage to the wood swatches, store them in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity can cause the wood to warp or crack. Additionally, avoid stacking the swatches on top of one another, as this can scratch or damage the finish. Instead, store them in separate containers or layers them flat in a protective box or bag.

How can I test wood swatches for stains and finishes?

To test wood swatches for stains and finishes, start by selecting the swatches you wish to use. Lay them out on a flat surface and apply a small amount of the stain or finish you are considering to each swatch using a clean cloth or brush. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow the stain or finish to dry completely.

Once the stain or finish has dried, compare the results. Look for factors such as color, sheen, and coverage. You can also use a magnifying glass or a loupe to closely examine the wood grain patterns and texture. This will help you determine which stain or finish will provide the best result for your wood project.

As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you!

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