Maple lumber collection
Clean, pale domestic alternative for furniture and utility builds.
View optionBasswood Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Domestic hardwood species
Basswood is best understood by how it looks, how it works, and where it should be used. This guide explains the practical buying details before sending you to the right Kingma products.
Scientific nameTilia americana
Janka hardness410 lbf
Average dried weight26.0 lb/ft³
Best fitWood pulp or fibre products
Overview
Why choose Basswood?
Basswood is a domestic hardwood species. Its natural range is Eastern North America. Common uses include wood pulp or fibre products, plywood, veneer, electric guitar bodies, lumber and carvings.
Scientific nameTilia americana
DistributionEastern North America
ShrinkageRadial: 6.6%, Tangential: 9.3%, Volumetric: 15.8%, T/R Ratio: 1.4 More images | Identification
DurabilityThe heartwood has no resistance to decay.
Basswood colour, grain, and figure
The wood is pale white through light brown, and the sapwood and heartwood are not clearly separated. Growth rings are faint and the colour stays mostly even across the face.
Straight grain, a fine and even texture, and a modest natural sheen.
Working notes
It is easy to work because it is soft and light, and it is among the best species for hand carving.
Apart from the usual hazards of any wood dust, basswood has not been linked to other health reactions.
Basswood should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Basswood
Best projects
Common uses include wood pulp or fibre products, plywood, veneer, electric guitar bodies, lumber and carvings.
Use caution
Avoid specifying it by name alone; confirm board size, moisture, colour, figure, and the project environment before buying.
Finish strategy
Test finishes on offcuts first, especially when colour, blotching, outdoor exposure, or grain filling matters.
Buying note
Choose boards, slabs, plywood, blanks, or posts based on the project rather than species name alone.
Shop path
Buying Basswood from Kingma
Start with the direct species match when Kingma sells it. If stock rotates, use the closest live collection or a clearly explained alternative.
Live edge slabs
Use when the customer cares more about slab format and visual impact than this exact species.
View optionSimilar woods and alternatives
If Kingma does not have an exact match online, use the buying links below as practical alternatives only when the colour, grain, hardness, or project environment makes sense.
Basswood FAQ
What is Basswood best used for?
Common uses include wood pulp or fibre products, plywood, veneer, electric guitar bodies, lumber and carvings. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Basswood beginner friendly?
It depends on density, grain direction, and tooling. Test cuts on offcuts first, and choose Maple, Cherry, Walnut, or Poplar when easier machining is the priority.
Does Kingma sell Basswood?
The buying section on this page links to any Basswood Kingma has in stock and to the closest alternatives. Stock changes often, so call (780) 229-7681 or visit the yard at 4607 91 Ave NW, Edmonton to check what is in today.