Sugar Maple (Curly / Tiger Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (Northeastern United States and Eastern 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
Straight to wavy grain featuring prominent curly (fiddleback/tiger stripe) figure running perpendicular to the grain direction.
Color & Appearance
Creamy off-white to light reddish-tan sapwood with subtle golden undertones. Heartwood is typically darker reddish-brown. Tends to amber and darken with UV exposure over time.
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
- $12.00 - $20.00+ per board foot depending on figure intensity, thickness, and slab width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Rough-sawn live-edge slab, harvested within the last 1 to 5 years; surface shows rough mill marks, dirt, and minor surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and sustainably managed in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments (especially violin backs and guitar necks), turnings, cutting boards, and high-end architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Northeastern United States and Eastern Canada).
Workability
Fair to difficult. Highly figured pieces are prone to tearout when planed or jointed. Highly recommended to use sharp tools, high cutterhead speeds, or drum sanders.
Finish Recommendations
Dye stains or penetrating oils (such as Danish oil or Tung oil) will dramatically enhance the 3D optical figure ('pop' the curl), followed by clear lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane for protection.
Notable Features
Distinctive optical chatoyance when finished, high density, excellent acoustic qualities, non-toxic/food-safe characteristics.
