Curly Maple (specifically Soft Maple or Red Maple variant)
Acer rubrum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Wavy or curly grain figure (fiddleback) visible as horizontal bands across the vertical fiber direction. Generally straight-grained in fibers but with significant compression wave figure.
Color Description
Heartwood is a creamy light reddish-brown; sapwood is pale white to off-white. This sample shows high luster and chatoyancy in the curly figure; it will likely amber or golden-yellow with exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture. Best for interior use only.
Common Uses
Musical instruments (guitar backs, violin necks), fine furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, and turned bowls.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on figure intensity and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced (less than 1 year) based on the bright, unoxidized color and crisp edges of the cut.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed. FSC certification is common.
Workability
Generally good, but the curly figure is prone to grain tear-out during planing or jointing. Requires very sharp tools and light passes; sands well.
Notable Features
Features distinct 'fiddleback' figure; no characteristic scent; may cause respiratory irritation in some individuals; excellent acoustic properties.
Finish Recommendations
Aniline dyes or oils (like tung or linseed) are recommended to 'pop' the figure; followed by clear lacquer or shellac for protection.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctive horizontal undulating figure (curl/tiger stripe) combined with the diffuse-porous structure and pale coloration is diagnostic for Maple.