Jelutong Wood Guide

Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood

Jelutong 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 nameDyera costulata
Janka hardness390 lbf
Average dried weight28 lb/ft³
Best fitSmall specialty pieces

Overview

Why choose Jelutong?

Jelutong is an imported specialty hardwood. Its natural range is Malaysia, Borneo and other parts of Southeast Asia. Common uses include small specialty pieces, carving and patternmaking.

Scientific nameDyera costulata
DistributionMalaysia, Borneo and other parts of Southeast Asia
ShrinkageRadial: 2.3%, Tangential: 5.5%, Volumetric: 6.2%, T/R Ratio: 2.4
DurabilityUsually rated non-durable to perishable against decay, and insects attack it.

Jelutong colour, grain, and figure

The heartwood begins almost white and deepens to a yellowish brown over time. The sapwood is not clearly set apart from the heartwood.

The grain is typically straight, now and then interlocked. The texture is even, medium to fine, with a good sheen.

Working notes

Low density makes jelutong very simple to work by hand or machine. Gum may collect on cutting tools, but results are good overall.

Severe reactions seldom occur, but skin irritation has been reported from Jelutong.

Jelutong should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.

Best uses for Jelutong

Best projects

Common uses include small specialty pieces, carving and patternmaking.

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 Jelutong 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.

Kingma option

Maple lumber collection

Clean, pale domestic alternative for furniture and utility builds.

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Kingma option

Live edge slabs

Use when the customer cares more about slab format and visual impact than this exact species.

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Similar 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.

Jelutong FAQ

What is Jelutong best used for?

Common uses include small specialty pieces, carving and patternmaking. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.

Is Jelutong 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 Jelutong?

The buying section on this page links to any Jelutong 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.