A staircase can make an impressive feature in any home, and a great way to finish them off is by purchasing a newel post.  You can make a statement whether you are trying to go for a modern look, or something more traditional. Make sure that the newel post which you purchase matches the other wood that you have used in the spindles, balustrades and handrails.

Ways to Buy

You can decide if you would like to buy a complete newel post or pick your own sections.  The completed post is ideal if you can find the perfect match for the style that you want.  They come in a range of woods and different styles.  Some are ornately turned while others are plain.  You might not need to have a full post in which case a half complete is available.  These can be attached to walls to make sure that the staircase looks appealing and complete.

If you would like to select the design of the overall look of the finished newel post then you might like to choose the cap.  These are placed on top of the posts and turnings.  They are turned bits of wood and range from simple rounded finishes, square to more ornately carved caps.

Choose your Wood

You can choose to buy a wood with great colouring and grain, or paint the newel post. There is not much point in buying oak and then covering it with layers of paint.  If you wish to paint your staircase then it is a good idea to purchase pine or hemlock.  Some of the posts can be purchased already primed.  This means they are ready for you to paint as soon as you have installed them.

If you have chosen to have a wood that you wish to wax, stain or varnish then it is recommended that you go for something a little more impressive. Be sure to match your woods with the hand railings and spindles if you want to have a unified look.  You can choose between woods for your newel post such as oak, ash, white oak, pyramid ash, and sapele.

Newel posts give a completed look and can be quite dramatic. You can paint your newel post or leave it natural to show off the grain in the wood that you choose.