The lion above, is carved from a wood called Butternut. I thought that the grain was lovely in this piece, and wanted it finished with a natural clear coating. Again, as you can see, the grain is horizontal, but that particular piece of Butternut, carved cleanly and easily for the most part. The end grain on each side of his head was difficult, but end grain always is. Since I have a warped sense of humor, at times, I thought about carving a dead lamb, placing it between his paws, and naming the piece "Silence of the Lambs", but I was afraid people would think me sick instead of just warped. :-)