Veneer is typically an extremely thin sheet of rich-colored hardwood, usually thinner than 1/8 of an inch, cut and matched in a pattern to be applied to a more durable and less expensive surface. This method helps manufacturers build and design beautiful products like furniture at a lower cost for consumers.
The predominate North American Hardwood species are maple, cherry, red or white oak, hickory, ash, alder, walnut, and poplar. Softwood veneers from pine, fir, and other conifer species are also produced. The American Hardwood Export Council offers an interactive map showing growth and removal information for most American hardwood species.
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