Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Uniformly straight grain with a fine, even texture. This specific turned dowel/plug sample shows a subtle chatoyance and lacks any significant figure like curling or bird's eye.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood. The sapwood is very light and usually preferred for use. This sample exhibits a warm, buttery yellowish-tan hue typical of aged maple or maple with a light clear coat.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack if used outdoors or in damp conditions.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts, bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, pool cues, musical instruments, and small turned items like the pictured peg.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the uniform patina and light oxidation, this piece likely dates from 5 to 20 years old; it shows no signs of antique grey-weathering or deep tannin darkening.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Turns excellently on a lathe. Hard enough to hold crisp detail, but can be prone to burning with high-speed steel tools or dull bits. Glues and finishes very well.
Notable Features
High resistance to abrasion and wear; subtle sweet scent when worked; can occasionally cause skin irritation or respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Drying oils (like tung or linseed), polyurethane for high-wear areas, or shellac. Maple blotches easily with stains, so a pre-conditioner or clear finish is recommended.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the fine grain, tight pores, and yellowish-cream color are characteristic of Acer saccharum, though Birch can sometimes appear similar in small turned specimens.