Birdseye Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeast North America and Great Lakes region.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if used in moist outdoor environments.
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Grain Pattern
Dense birdseye figure with swirly, irregular grain and clusters of small 'eyes' or knots. High amount of chatoyancy and wavy figure throughout.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is typically reddish brown; sapwood is cream to off-white, shown here aged to a warm golden honey-brown amber tone. High luster with significant chatoyance under a clear finish.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if used in moist outdoor environments.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15.00 to 45.00 USD per board foot depending on figure intensity and grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- 40-60 years based on the ambering of the finish (patina) and the traditional molding profiles suggests a mid-20th century construction.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable, not CITES listed, widely available with FSC certification; Sugar Maple is a stable species in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, high-end cabinetry, musical instruments (guitars and violins), pool cues, automotive trim, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeast North America and Great Lakes region.
Workability
Difficult to plane due to the figure; the irregular grain causes significant tearout. Best worked with scrapers or very sharp, high-angle blades and sanding.
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss lacquer or hand-rubbed oil to accentuate the depth of the figure; a shellac sealer is often used to prevent blotching.
Notable Features
Features unique circular figure called 'birdseyes' believed to be caused by environmental factors; has excellent acoustic properties and a subtle, sweet scent when cut.
