Architectural Woodcarving Terms: Do You Know a Baluster From a Turnout?

If you are designing a wood staircase, you probably want a mirror polish finish on the balusters and turnouts. Or, you may prefer the textured orange peel look on the wood. These are architectural woodcarving terms used by woodcarvers who produce elegant staircases, mantles, bookcases, cabinets and detailing for homes. Expertly finished customized woodwork is an art form that adds beauty to any room including entries and kitchens.  Balusters are the vertical pieces of wood supporting a handrail. Traditional old homes often feature spindle or carved balusters supporting the handrail and curved turnouts at the end of the rail. All of the wood on the staircase is polished to a smooth mirror finish. That finish, so bright it reflects light, involves extensive sanding,  buffing, varnishing and polishing to bring out the luster of mahogany, teak and other woods. A more rustic look comes from the orange peel textured wood finish.  The rougher finish, which can be stained or varnished, resembles the peel of a citrus fruit, hence its name. Art for Everyday Inc produces the finest quality woodwork for homes throughout Canada and the United States. Products range from traditional, classic and modern pieces to custom designs for any room. photo courtesy of Crown Molding on flickr