Curly Maple Information - Interesting Facts About Curly Maple Wood

Curly Maple Information

Curly Maple Drawers Created by
Howard P. of New Hampshire

CURLY MAPLE FACTS

Maple trees may seem ubiquitous, and relatively plain, to the average American or Canadian, but they do come in a tremendous variety of forms. One species that is especially prized by woodworkers and woodturners is Acer saccharum. A hard maple that's generally considered more durable than others of its kind, Acer saccharum often yields woods with exceptional figuring. The wild-looking, undulating pattern of wavy lines found in Curly Maple results from wood fibers in the tree becoming distorted as they grow. (This striking pattern is known by a number of descriptive names, such as "rippled," "tiger striped," and "fiddlebacked," among others.)

Its sheer physical beauty makes Curly Maple a favorite among turners, carvers, fine furniture makers, and musical instrument makers (especially for violins and guitars).

Also known as "Sugar Maple" (due to the Maple sap they produce) and "Rock Maple," Acer saccharum trees can be found throughout various large swaths of Canada and the United States. The trees can grow up to 120 feet tall, with trunk diameters measuring up to 3 feet.

Curly Maple's heartwood is typically a light tan to reddish brown color and, of course, features a pronounced grain pattern. The sapwood is usually cream colored with a reddish tint. Curly Maple is a durable, hard, and dense wood, with an average specific gravity of about 0.72.

Curly Maple carves and turns exceedingly well, and finishes nicely. One note about sanding: Because of the wood's density and light color, sanding marks can be difficult to conceal, so extra care should be taken when sanding.

CURLY MAPLE TIDBIT
During the great westward expansion of settlers in 19th-century America, Curly Maple was often used to make stocks for the pioneers' rifles.

Curly Maple Carving by
Gene E. of Illinois

CURLY MAPLE'S DIFFERENT LOOKS
Click on Photos for Larger Versions

CURLY MAPLE FINISHED PRODUCTS, CREATED BY EXOTIC WOOD GROUP CUSTOMERS

By Joe S. of New Jersey

By Phil B. of Tennessee

By Bob S. of Texas

By Nathan K. of Florida

By Norm R. of Wyoming