A wooden newel post includes upper and lower post sections, anda decorative lamella layer. The upper post section is made of higher quality wood, and has a lower post connecting end. The lower post section is made of lower quality wood, and has an upper post connecting end connected to the lower post connecting end of the upper post section, and an outer post surface. The decorative lamella layer is made of higher quality wood, and is secured to the outer post surface of the lower post section.