Quilted Figure
Quilted figure is a dramatic three-dimensional pattern in wood that creates an appearance of billowing, pillow-like shapes across the surface. It is most commonly found in bigleaf maple and sapele. Quilted figure is extremely rare and commands some of the highest prices of any figured wood.
In-Depth Explanation
Quilted figure produces a stunning visual effect where the wood surface appears to undulate in three dimensions, resembling a puffy quilt or bubbling liquid. The cause is a complex distortion of the wood fibers that goes beyond simple curly grain — the waves move in multiple directions simultaneously, creating interference patterns that shift dramatically with changes in lighting or viewing angle. Quilted bigleaf maple from the Pacific Northwest is the benchmark for this figure and can sell for $50 or more per board foot in exceptional examples. The figure is best revealed in book-matched sets where two adjacent slices create a symmetrical, mirrored pattern. Like other figured woods, quilted wood is challenging to machine due to severe grain reversal in multiple directions. Sharp tools, light cuts, and card scrapers are essential for clean surfaces. Quilted figure is primarily used in musical instruments, high-end furniture, and decorative veneer.
Usage Example
The guitar builder acquired a quilted maple top that displayed such intense figure the wood appeared to move like liquid under a clear lacquer finish.