Wormy Maple bottle stopper blank 1-1/2 x 1-1/2 x 2-1/2 - product of Canada

Wormy (ambrosia) maple bottle stopper blanks 1-1/2" square by 5" (38 mm × 38 mm × 127 mm)

Turn truly unique, character-rich projects with these wormy (ambrosia) maple bottle stopper blanks. Unlike clean, uniform maple, wormy maple features natural insect trails and streaking caused by ambrosia beetles. These markings create striking grey, brown, and sometimes bluish lines that give each piece a completely one-of-a-kind look. It’s an excellent choice when you want your finished piece to tell a story.

What makes wormy (ambrosia) maple unique?

Wormy or ambrosia maple gets its distinctive appearance from ambrosia beetles that bore into the wood. As they tunnel, they introduce fungi that stain the surrounding wood, creating the dark, irregular lines and patterns you see. These markings are purely visual — the structural integrity of the wood remains strong — making it both beautiful and functional.

Because of this natural process, no two blanks are alike. The contrast between the light maple and the darker streaking gives your finished piece depth, movement, and a rustic, organic character that can’t be replicated.

What size are the blanks?

Each blank measures a minimum of 1-1/2" square by 5" long (38 mm × 38 mm × 127 mm), an ideal size for most bottle stopper hardware. This provides plenty of material for drilling, shaping, and refining the final profile.

Your blanks will be selected at random and will vary significantly in colour, figure, and worm track patterns—this variation is what makes wormy maple so desirable.

How should I finish this blank?

Wormy maple finishes beautifully and highlights its natural contrast. After sanding through your usual grits, you can apply oil, wax, or a friction polish depending on your desired look. A clear finish will enhance the contrast between the light maple and the darker streaking. For a higher-gloss finish, sand to finer grits and polish to bring out the depth and detail.

Fun facts about wormy (ambrosia) maple:

• The “worm tracks” are not actually from worms but from ambrosia beetles, which carry a fungus that creates the distinctive dark staining in the wood.
• These natural markings were once considered defects, but today they are highly prized for adding character and uniqueness to woodworking projects.

Price per blank in Canadian dollars.