Leopardwood project block 1-1/2 x 1-1/2 x 6

Leopardwood project block 1-1/2" square

Leopardwood is a striking exotic hardwood known for its bold, flecked figure that resembles the pattern of a leopard’s coat. Dense and durable, it turns cleanly on the lathe with sharp tools and produces a smooth surface that really comes to life under finish. Its warm golden-brown base colour combined with dramatic ray fleck makes it an eye-catching choice for standout projects.

What are the dimensions of these blanks?

Each project blank measures approximately 1-1/2" square by 6" long (38 mm × 38 mm × 152 mm). The picture is a typical representation. Your blanks will be selected at random and may differ slightly from the image.

What projects can I make with these blanks?

These blocks are ideal for salt and pepper shaker kits and for kitchen project handles such as coffee scoops, ice cream scoops, vegetable peelers, and microplane rasp grater kits. They’re also a great option when you want a project with bold visual impact.

How should I finish Leopardwood?

Leopardwood finishes exceptionally well and really rewards a good sanding and polishing process. Start by sanding through your usual grits to at least 320 or 400. Because of its dense structure and pronounced ray fleck, taking the time to remove all scratches will make a big difference in the final look.

A friction polish is a quick and effective option for smaller projects, giving you a warm, satin to semi-gloss sheen. For a high-gloss finish, you can take it further: sand to finer grits, then polish with Micro-Mesh and finish with a plastic polish like Novus or One-Step. This really enhances the chatoyance and makes the flecked pattern pop.

One tip: Leopardwood can have open pores, so if you want a perfectly smooth, glass-like finish, consider using a grain filler before your final coats.

Fun facts about Leopardwood:

• Leopardwood gets its signature spotted look from large medullary rays, which become especially visible when the wood is quartersawn.
• Despite its name, Leopardwood isn’t a single species, it’s a trade name commonly used for woods like Brazilian lacewood that share this distinctive flecked appearance.

Price per blank in Canadian dollars.