Basswood (American Linden)
Tilia americana • Hardwood (angiosperm)
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine, and even texture with a faint, indistinct grain pattern; no significant figure is present in this sample.
Color Description
Pale white to light cream color that is very uniform between the sapwood and heartwood; tends to darken to a pale brown or yellow with exposure to light and age; low natural luster.
Hardness Rating
410 lbf - Very Soft (one of the softest hardwoods available)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; very low resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
Woodcarving (especially hand carving), food containers, crates, boxes, veneer, musical instrument parts (electric guitar bodies), and blind slats.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, ranging from southeast Canada through the eastern United States.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.50 to $6.00 per board foot depending on thickness and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut or recently milled; the lack of oxidation/patina and the light color suggest the sample was harvested and debarked within the last 6-12 months.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern on the IUCN Red List; widely available and not CITES listed; generally sustainable and easy to source from FSC certified suppliers.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; it is the premier wood for carving due to its soft, even density; glues and finishes well, though it can be difficult to stain evenly without a wood conditioner.
Notable Features
Extremely lightweight; very faint, non-distinct scent; low toxicity; known for its ability to hold crisp detail in carving without splintering.
Finish Recommendations
Shellac or clear lacquer are recommended to preserve the light color; if staining, use a pre-stain wood conditioner to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
High; the extremely pale, uniform color, lack of visible latewood/earlywood contrast, and the soft fibrous appearance of the end-cut are classic indicators of Tilia americana.