Stabilized spalted maple burl pen blanks 5/8" - product of Canada

Stabilized spalted maple burl pen blanks 5/8" – product of Canada

Create striking, high-impact turning projects with these stabilized spalted maple burl pen blanks, proudly made in Canada. Featuring dramatic swirling figure and eye patterns, maple burl is a favourite for pen turners who want bold character and a premium look in a finished pen.

What size are the blanks?

Each blank measures a minimum of 5/8" × 5/8" × 5", ideal for 7 mm kits, memory pendants, regular key rings and ornaments. The blanks shown in the photo have been sanded to highlight the figure and are representative only. Your blanks will be selected at random and may vary in colour, figure, and pattern.

What does “stabilized” mean?

Stabilized refers to wood that has been impregnated with resin under pressure, reinforcing softer or highly figured areas and eliminating weak spots. This creates a blank that drills cleanly, turns smoothly, and resists tear-out or blowouts. Each blank is unique and will be selected at random. Some colour variability is normal due to differences in wood density and how the resin is absorbed. We do not offer refunds for colour variation or minor internal imperfections, which are inherent to burl wood.

What is burl?

Burl is a rare, abnormal growth that forms on a tree in response to stress, injury, or disease. Instead of straight grain, burl produces tight swirls, eyes, and complex figure, making it highly prized for high-end furniture, decorative inlay, and premium turned objects like pens.

What does “spalted” mean?

Spalted describes natural markings created when fungi begin to break down wood fibres. In maple burl, this process forms dark lines and zones that trace through the grain. Spalting is purely visual in these blanks, adding contrast and artistic detail without affecting their suitability for turning. No two blanks will ever look the same. 

How should I finish these blanks?

These blanks are easy to drill and turn. For best results, sand progressively using Abranet or sanding mesh, followed by Micro Mesh. Use a cyanoacrylate glue finish followed by a plastic polish. Friction polishes like Doctor's Wood Shop, Mylands, Aussie Oil or Shellawax products will also give you a durable, high gloss finish. 

Price is per blank in Canadian dollars.