Robles Black Walnut
From waste wood to Salt Shaker Woodworks, Robles Black Walnut carries its story forward.
The Story
Juan Robles of Robles Pro Tree Services, LLC has been caring for the trees on my property in Seguin, Texas for years. When Juan does his work, there’s always plenty of waste—branches and logs that usually end up at the dump for a fee, or on his land where they’re burned.
One day we got to talking, and I suggested that if he ever came across larger pieces of “special” trees, like this Black Walnut, he could drop them at my shop instead. That way he’d save the dump fee or the labor of burning, and I’d give the wood a second life.
That conversation is how Robles Black Walnut came to Salt Shaker Woodworks, and I’m certain there will be more reclaimed Robles woods in the future.
About the Tree
Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) is a native hardwood of North America, valued for both its nuts and its richly colored wood. In Texas, it grows along river bottoms and in fertile soils, often standing tall with a broad canopy like the one pictured here.
The tree is prized for more than its timber—its nuts have long been harvested for food, and its roots release a natural compound called juglone, which helps the tree compete by limiting the growth of some plants around it.
Known for its beauty, usefulness, and rarity in our region, Black Walnut has earned a reputation as one of the most treasured trees in American woodworking.
About the Wood
Black Walnut is one of the most prized hardwoods in North America, known for its deep chocolate heartwood, creamy sapwood edges, and swirling grain that makes every piece unique. Dense and durable yet workable, it finishes to a smooth, lustrous surface that highlights its natural beauty.
The wine stopper shown here is one example of how Black Walnut’s rich color and fine grain come to life in finished pieces.
Why It Matters
Most of the time, logs like these Black Walnut pieces never make it past the burn pile or the dump. By setting them aside instead of hauling them off, this wood gets a second life in my shop—shaped into lasting pieces instead of being lost as waste.
This photo shows part of my Robles Black Walnut supply, wood that was saved because of one simple conversation. It’s a reminder that with the right connections and a little intention, even what was headed for waste can carry its story forward.
Made From Robles Black Walnut
Available now – Black Walnut wine stopper with Coast Guard emblem.
Available now – Black Walnut tortilla rolling pin.
Available now – Black Walnut whiskey stopper.
This one’s gone – Black Walnut wine stopper with Space Force emblem.
The Black Walnut pieces above that are marked Available now are linked directly to their product pages, ready to be claimed. The one marked This one’s gone has already found its home, but more will come as I continue to work through this supply.
Each piece tells its own story, and no two are ever alike. If you’d like something crafted just for you, I also take on custom orders.