Bigleaf Maple (Quilted Figure)
Acer macrophyllum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Highly figured quilted pattern; grain is wavy and irregular, creating a three-dimensional depth effect known as chatoyancy.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood with nearly white sapwood. It possesses a high natural luster and develops a golden hue with age.
Hardness Rating
850 lbf (Soft to Medium classification; notably softer than Sugar Maple)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; low resistance to rot and decay; susceptible to insect attack if left untreated.
Common Uses
Musical instruments (guitar tops), fine furniture, veneers, turned objects, and specialty craft items.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Coast of North America, ranging from Alaska to southern California.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Highly variable; $20.00 to $50.00+ per board foot depending on the intensity and uniformity of the quilted figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced; the light color and lack of oxidation suggest the sample is relatively new.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable and widely available.
Workability
Difficult due to the extreme figure; prone to significant tearout during planing and joining. Requires very sharp tools and light passes.
Notable Features
Exhibits intense chatoyancy where the wood appears to move when the viewing angle changes. Low odor and non-toxic, though dust can be an irritant.
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss finishes like nitrocellulose lacquer or polyurethane are recommended to highlight the depth of the figure; oils can also enhance the quilt.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct 'blistered' appearance of the quilt figure combined with the specific color and fiber texture is characteristic of Acer macrophyllum.