Basswood
Tilia americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight and fine with a very even, uniform texture. Pores are small and inconspicuous. Lacks significant figure; generally flat-sawn in standard cut.
Color Description
Pale white to light cream color, with very little distinction between heartwood and sapwood. Shows a subtle silken luster. Tends to darken slightly to a pale brown with sunlight exposure over time.
Hardness Rating
410 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture or outdoor elements.
Common Uses
Wood carving, hand woodturning, musical instruments (electric guitar bodies), window shutters, blinds, veneer, and internal furniture components.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, ranging from Southern Canada down to Arkansas and North Carolina.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot depending on thickness and quality.
Wood Age Estimate
Fresh cut; the wood shows no oxidation, very bright white color, and the presence of bark suggest it was recently harvested and processed.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered highly sustainable and widely available.
Workability
Excellent for hand tools; exceptionally soft and easy to work. It glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can be somewhat 'fuzzy' if sanded with dull abrasives.
Notable Features
Virtually odorless and tasteless. Known for its 'dead' acoustic properties which are valued for solid-body guitars. Highly prized by carvers for its ability to hold fine detail without splitting.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes reasonably well, though it can be blotchy. A sanding sealer or shellac wash coat is recommended before staining. Clear lacquer or polyurethane works well.
Identification Confidence
High; the creamy white color, extremely fine texture, fuzzy end-grain fibers from the cut, and the characteristic thin, brown-grey bark are diagnostic for American Basswood.