Does Stained Walnut Lighten with Age?

Unlike cherry, maple, and oak (which all darken in color as they age), walnut wood will actually lighten slightly over time.

Does walnut get lighter with age?

New walnut has a consistent dark brown color but as it gets older it does two things. 1) Unlike maple and cherry, it gets lighter and 2) a rich honey color starts to come through the grain.

Can walnut be stained lighter?

Fortunately, there is a coloring option that can remove the purplish gray cast, add more variance and color, and add the highlights that usually come with age. Unlike cherry, which darkens with age and light exposure, walnut gets lighter, developing a lovely golden glow, and this technique can mimic that.