Basswood (American Tilia)
Tilia americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine, and even texture with an indistinct grain pattern and small pores. Occasional knots are small and tight.
Color Description
Pale white to light cream or yellowish heartwood; sapwood is generally merged with heartwood and not clearly defined. It shows low luster and minimal chatoyance, staying very light with age.
Hardness Rating
410 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; rated as perishable regarding rot and decay resistance. Very susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Wood carving (extremely popular for hobbyists), shutters, blinds, musical instrument bodies (electric guitar), veneer, plywood, and food containers.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $7.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently harvested (less than 1 year); shows very little oxidation and lacks the amber patina associated with older basswood.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES protected. Heavily available as FSC certified stock.
Workability
Excellent for hand carving and machining. Extremely soft and easy to cut. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can be porous and require a sealer for even staining.
Notable Features
Virtually odorless and tasteless, making it food-safe. It is one of the lightest and softest North American hardwoods, known for holding crisp detail in carvings.
Finish Recommendations
Clear shellac or spray lacquer to preserve the white color. Since it is very absorbent, use a wood conditioner before staining to prevent splotching.
Identification Confidence
High; the creamy white color, extremely fine grain, fuzzy texture on the rough-cut edges, and presence in a workshop environment are consistent with Tilia americana.