Curly Maple Wood Guide 2026
Acer spp.
Typically described as figured maple with curl pattern
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 45 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: United States
- Common uses include Furniture, Musical instruments, Veneer
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Fine and consistent, though grain varies due to figure.
Workability: Generally good, but the wavy grain can cause tear-out during planing.
Fastening: Nails and screws well; pre-drilling generally not required.
Finishing: Chatoyancy is best highlighted by dyes and oil finishes.
Color change: Turns a light amber yellow over time.
Insect resistance: Poor resistance to decay and insect attack.
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Curly Maple. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Available in select widths for decorative projects. | Available in shorter lengths due to premium figure selection. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Available in select widths for decorative projects. | Available in shorter lengths due to premium figure selection. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Available in select widths for decorative projects.
- Lengths
- Available in shorter lengths due to premium figure selection.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Available in select widths for decorative projects.
- Lengths
- Available in shorter lengths due to premium figure selection.
Availability notes: Availability is variable based on the intensity of the figure.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Light cream to brown; curl figure
Grain: Straight with curl; fine texture
Common Uses
- Furniture
- Musical instruments
- Veneer
- Decorative panels
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Tiger Maple;Fiddleback Maple
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 1,450 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Non-Durable
- Sourced from United States
Considerations
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Curly Maple is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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