Basswood
Tilia americana · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 410 lbf (Very Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, even texture and subtle, understated growth ring patterns
Color & Appearance
Pale white to yellowish-light brown with little visible difference between sapwood and heartwood; low luster and darkens slightly to a yellowish cream with age and light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
410 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- New to moderately recent stock (under 5 years), showing minimal oxidation or patina
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, highly sustainable, readily available as commercially harvested domestic timber
Common Uses
Woodcarving, model making, musical instrument parts, small turned items, and secondary wood in furniture
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptionally easy to work with both hand and machine tools; cuts, carves, and sands cleanly, though its softness makes it prone to denting and requires sharp tools to prevent fuzzing
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, paints, and clear finishes exceptionally well; water-based or oil-based polyurethanes, shellac, and oils all perform reliably
Notable Features
Extremely lightweight, soft, and dimensionally stable with very low natural resistance to decay and insect attack
