Exploring the Wonders of Exotic Woods for Woodworkers

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As a woodworker deeply passionate about Biedermeier furniture, some of my favorite exotic woods include:

Favorite Exotic Woods for Biedermeier Furniture

However, this exploration doesn't end there. Another exotic wood that stands out to me is Bolivian Rosewood. Purchased a few years ago at a fantastic price—$10-15 per board foot—this wood was a treasure to work with. Bolivian Rosewood generally costs around $25-30 per board foot but is a true gem for crafting beautiful projects. I've made some boxes with it, which I eventually sold.

Domestic vs. Exotic Woods

While exotic woods often grab the spotlight, some domestic woods can also be considered exotic for their unique characteristics. One such wood is quarter-sawn sycamore. Known for its beautiful ray fleck figure, it is not typically used for traditional furniture building but excels in design elements and veneering. Its distinct patterns and subtle graining make it a sought-after choice for woodworkers who value aesthetic appeal.

Local Southwestern Wood Species

Exploring local resources can also be a rewarding experience in woodworking. Two local Southwestern wood species that particularly captivate me are:

Southwestern Olive

Southwestern Olive offers a graceful swirling color that transitions from almost black to almost maple, creating a smooth mixture of brown to light blonde. It is particularly susceptible to cracking and checking, though this can be managed through careful drying. When cut, its density remains consistent as the colors change, allowing for detailed work. It polishes to a high creamy gloss that lasts forever, making it a standout choice for woodworking projects.

Mexican Cocobolo

Another local option is Mexican Cocobolo, which shares many positive traits with Olive but is more resistant to cracking. Its color ranges from black through red to a beautiful red-brown, making it visually appealing. Turning Cocobolo is a dream due to its ability to hold detail beautifully, and it polishes to a glass-like gloss. Despite having a high oil content, its gloss can wear off more quickly, but it is easy to restore with polishing. However, due to its natural brittleness, it can crack or even shatter when dropped on hard surfaces. Nevertheless, its magnificent chatoyance adds a unique dimension of beauty to any project.

While these woods are not cheap, local varieties like Olive often grow freely and can be found at no cost, making them a cost-effective option for woodworkers.

These are just a few of my favorite woods, but there are many more exotic and local options to explore. Each wood has its own unique properties, making woodworking an endlessly fascinating and rewarding hobby.