English
A unique combination of figure and natural character, this lot of four spalted birdseye maple pen blanks offers something truly different for your next turning project. Each set is one of a kind, with its own mix of pattern, colour, and visual texture — no two blanks are exactly alike.
Birdseye maple is known for its distinctive “eyes” — small, swirling patterns that appear throughout the wood, creating a dense, decorative figure. When combined with spalting, the result is even more striking, with dark lines and contrasting tones adding depth and movement to the surface.
What size are the blanks?
Each blank measures approximately 3/4" square by 5" long (19 mm × 19 mm × 127 mm), making them ideal for standard pen turning projects.
What does “birdseye” mean?
Birdseye refers to the small, eye-like figure found in certain maple trees. These patterns are caused by abnormal growth in the wood fibres, creating tight, rounded “eyes” that give the wood its unique texture and visual appeal.
What does “spalted” mean?
Spalting is a natural process caused by fungi beginning to decompose the wood. This creates dark zone lines, colour variation, and unique patterns throughout the blank. When properly dried and prepared, spalted wood is stable and highly prized for its one-of-a-kind appearance.
What makes this lot special?
This set combines two highly sought-after features — birdseye figure and spalting — in a single group of blanks. The result is a mix of intricate detail and bold contrast that stands out on the lathe and in the finished pen.
Two fun facts about birdseye maple:
Price per lot in Canadian dollars.
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