exotic woods

Wood Explorer

Brazilian rosewood: Highly prized but highly restricted

Brazilian rosewood, also called jacaranda, is perhaps one of the most beautiful woods in the world. However, extensive harvesting over the past three centuries has virtually eliminated this tree from the Brazilian forests, so that today it is not supposed to be harvested. The only material that can be sold legally is old stock; such material has to display a CITES Certificate, noting special approval. As might be expected, the wood is expensive.

Wood Dr

Sources for exotic wood information

Q: Where can I locate a very complete listing of most of the exotic woods of the world, which specifically lists specific gravities, densities and weight-per-board-foot. I'm currently building up a few samples using wenge, padouk, zebrawood, purpleheart and bubinga. That is our marketing niche using the highest quality exotics at affordable prices.

Woodworking Industry News

Mission Bell plans growth

Custom woodworking and casegoods firm Mission Bell Manufacturing says it has seen its business grow despite the general slowdown in construction. Mission Bell saw revenues rise from $22.9 million in 2009 to $27 million in 2010, and projects growth for 2011 as well.