Basswood (American Linden)
Tilia americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine, and even texture with indistinct growth rings; typically lacks pronounced figure
Color Description
Pale white to light cream/brown; heartwood and sapwood are often indistinguishable; tends to yellow slightly with age and UV exposure
Hardness Rating
410 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; very susceptible to rot and insect attack if exposed to moisture
Common Uses
Woodcarving, hand-turning, musical instrument internal components (piano keys), shutters, veneer, and plywood cores
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on thickness and width
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber; appears freshly surfaced or recently milled with no significant oxidation or historical patina
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable
Workability
Excellent for hand tools; very easy to carve and plane; soft enough to dent easily; glues and finishes well but can be fuzzy when sanded if not using sharp abrasives
Notable Features
Extremely lightweight; negligible scent; uniform consistency makes it the preferred wood for beginner and professional carvers; low tea-stain reaction
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains poorly (can be blotchy); best with clear sealers, shellac, or paint; often left natural or waxed for carvings
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the creamy-white uniform color, lack of visible grain contrast, and the visible compression dent/softness is characteristic of Basswood.