Maple (most likely Silver Maple or Red Maple)
Acer saccharinum (Silver Maple) or Acer rubrum (Red Maple) • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy; circular growth rings are prominent due to the bowl-turning orientation. Shows some subtle curly figure or 'ray' fleck in the transitioning grain sections.
Color Description
Pale cream to off-white sapwood with light reddish-brown heartwood. Low to medium luster; typical 'Soft Maple' appearance that will yellow slightly with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
700 - 950 lbf (Soft to Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; perishable regarding decay resistance and susceptible to insect attack if left outdoor.
Common Uses
Woodturning (bowls), furniture, boxes, musical instruments, veneer, and paper pulp.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot (standard grade)
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut to 1 year; the wood appears 'green' or recently worked with very little oxidation or patina, and tool marks/scuffing are bright.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Soft maples can sometimes experience 'burn' marks from high-speed routers or dulled lathe tools. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Faint, sweet scent when worked; known for being excellent for food-safe turned items; categorized as 'Soft Maple' despite being a botanical hardwood.
Finish Recommendations
Mineral oil or beeswax if intended for food use; otherwise, shellac or clear lacquer to preserve the light color and highlight the grain.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the growth ring structure, color transition from pith to sapwood, and the way the fibers have reacted to the lathe tools are characteristic of Acer species.