Name |
Sycamore Plane (Acer pseudoplatanus) |
Type |
Hardwood. |
Other Names |
Also known as sycamore, planetree, great maple, buttonwood, or harewood. |
Sources |
Grows in UK and other temperate regions of Europe, N. America, and Japan. |
Appearance |
Usually straight grained but may be wavy; fine textured, with a silky luster. Creamy-white sapwood and heartwood. |
Physical Props |
Moderately heavy with medium bending and crushing strength, very low stiffness, and low shock resistance. Susceptible to decay. |
Working Props |
Works easily with sharp tools (dull ones readily cause burning). Figured wood may chip when planed unless low cutting angle used. Good nailing, gluing, and finishing properties. |
Uses |
Used in applications where cleanliness is important – dairy utensils, laundry and textile rollers, turnery, bobbins, handles, and food containers. Traditional wood for fingerboards and violin backs. Also used for fiddle back veneers, cabinets, paneling, marquetry, and inlay. |