Birdseye Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Highly figured with small circular knots known as 'birdseyes' set against a fine, uniform, and slightly wavy background grain. Typically flat-sawn or rotary-sliced for veneer to emphasize the figure.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light golden-yellow heartwood (in this sample, aged to a rich golden amber). Sapwood is typically white. It has a high natural luster and develops a warm, darker patina with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 to $25.00 per board foot (varies greatly depending on figure density)
- Wood Age Estimate
- 40 to 70 years old, based on the ambering of the nitrocellulose or shellac finish and the mid-century serpentine design of the furniture.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; generally considered a sustainable and abundant domestic hardwood.
Common Uses
High-end furniture (veneer), cabinetry, musical instruments (guitars and violins), flooring, pool cues, and decorative turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada
Workability
Fairly difficult to work by hand; the figured grain is prone to tear-out during planing and jointer operations. High-speed cutters and light passes are recommended. It glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Usually finished with clear lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane to showcase the figure. Penetrating oils can help pop the 'eyes' and increase visual depth before top-coating.
Notable Features
Birdseye is a phenomenon only found in a small percentage of Sugar Maples. It possesses excellent acoustic properties and is prized for its unique visual depth and chatoyance.
