Birch is a medium-hard wood with plain and closed grain. The grain is often characterized as a curly or wavy pattern. It is predominantly a light yellow wood that takes stain very well. When a light finish is applied these variations may be visible and should not be considered a defect. When a dark stain is applied the wavy and curly grain absorbs stain and reflects light in such a manner as to enhance the natural characteristics of the species and should not be considered a defect. (door image may not depict the correct species)