Luxurious, dense, and richly coloured, kingwood is a rare exotic hardwood treasured for its striking appearance and fine texture. We offer select kingwood turning blanks and lumber perfect for high-end inlays, fine furniture, decorative accents, musical instruments, and woodturning projects that demand exceptional beauty and detail. Kingwood is known for its deep purplish-brown tones, often accented with dark streaks and a natural lustre that polishes to a brilliant finish. Despite its density, it turns and machines well with sharp tools and holds intricate detail—making it ideal for small-scale, precision work such as knife handles, pens, and ornate trim. As a proudly Canadian company, Windsor Plywood specializes in hard-to-find and exotic wood species, supported by expert, one-on-one service. Add an element of royalty to your next project with the timeless elegance and unparalleled character of kingwood.
Maple, walnut, oak, cherry, elm, and alder are among the species that come through Windsor Plywood's live edge hardwood inventory. Availability varies by season. Each species has a distinct colour, grain pattern, and character. Walnut is among the most sought-after for its deep chocolate tones and figured grain.
Hard maple and walnut are the two most popular choices. Maple is extremely hard, light in colour, and takes finish well. Walnut is somewhat softer but has exceptional natural beauty and is easier to work with hand and machine tools. Both are durable enough for daily dining use with proper finishing.
Wipe spills immediately. Use placemats and trivets to prevent heat and water ring damage. Depending on the finish, reapply hardwax oil every one to two years or refinish polyurethane when it shows significant wear. Avoid placing hardwood near heat registers or in direct sunlight, which accelerates drying and can cause checking.
Figured wood refers to unusual grain patterns caused by growth irregularities in the tree. Common figures include curly maple, quilted maple, and bird's eye maple. These patterns reflect and refract light differently from straight grain, creating a three-dimensional depth in the wood surface that is highly valued in furniture and tabletop applications.
Sustainably sourced live edge hardwood from responsibly managed Canadian and North American forests is a durable, long-lasting material choice. Because live edge pieces are used as primary furniture surfaces with multi-decade lifespans, the material footprint compares favourably to mass-produced furniture. Ask Windsor Plywood about sourcing when sustainability is a priority.