Light, smooth, and subtly elegant, Sycamore is a hardwood known for its creamy colour, fine texture, and unique grain patterns. We offer quality Sycamore lumber and veneers ideal for cabinetry, furniture, panelling, decorative accents, and specialty woodworking projects that call for a refined yet distinctive appearance. Sycamore features a pale cream to light tan hue with occasional reddish or pinkish undertones and a characteristic interlocked grain that can produce beautiful flecked or ribbon-like figure when quarter-sawn. It machines well, takes stain and finishes smoothly, and is a great choice for those seeking a lighter-toned alternative to maple or birch. As a proudly Canadian company, Windsor Plywood provides hard-to-find and high-quality wood species with expert, personalized service. Whether you're crafting custom furniture or adding decorative detail, Sycamore brings a touch of natural elegance and versatility to any interior project.
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.