Basswood
Tilia americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine, and even texture. The grain is generally inconspicuous with no significant figure, presenting a very uniform and diffuse-porous appearance.
Color Description
Pale white to light brown heartwood and sapwood with very little distinction between the two. It has a low natural luster and tends to darken slightly to a pale yellow or tan with age.
Hardness Rating
410 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; rated as perishable regarding decay resistance and susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Wood carving, hand-carved ornaments, venetian blinds, shutters, inner furniture components, boxes, veneer, and musical instruments (solid-body electric guitars).
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.50 to $6.00 per board foot depending on thickness and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Recently milled or stored indoors; the wood shows Very little oxidation or UV-induced darkening, suggesting the sample is less than 1-2 years old.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed. FSC certification is common.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It is one of the best woods for carving. It glues and finishes well, although its softness makes it prone to denting during handling.
Notable Features
Extremely lightweight with a faint, non-distinct odor. It is known for its poor nail-holding capacity but superior stability and ability to hold fine detail in carving.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and paints well, though a sealer or wood conditioner is recommended to prevent blotching. Clear lacquer or shellac is preferred to maintain its light color.
Identification Confidence
High; the creamy white color, falta of distinct growth ring contrast, diffuse-porous end grain, and characteristic fuzzy surface texture from milling are classic hallmarks of Tilia americana.