Maple lumber collection
Clean, pale domestic alternative for furniture and utility builds.
View optionSnakewood Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood
Snakewood 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 nameBrosimum guianense
Janka hardness3,800 lbf
Average dried weight75.7 lb/ft³
Best fitViolin bows
Overview
Why choose Snakewood?
Snakewood is an imported specialty hardwood. Its natural range is Coastal northeastern South America. Common uses include violin bows, tool handles, inlay, veneer and small specialty or turned pieces.
Scientific nameBrosimum guianense
DistributionCoastal northeastern South America
ShrinkageRadial: 4.7%, Tangential: 6.0% · Volumetric: 10.7%, T/R Ratio: 1.3
DurabilitySnakewood is said to be highly durable as well as insect resistant, but it is seldom used outdoors, where that would matter.
Snakewood colour, grain, and figure
The name comes from its snakeskin-like patterning. The wood is usually reddish brown, with patches of darker brown or black that contrast with it.
The grain is straight, and the texture is fine and even, with a high natural shine.
Working notes
As a close relative of bloodwood, it behaves similarly: it is extremely dense and blunts cutters noticeably. It is also quite brittle and splinters readily during work.
Serious reactions are unusual, but snakewood is reported to irritate the skin and airways.
Snakewood should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Snakewood
Best projects
Common uses include violin bows, tool handles, inlay, veneer and small specialty or turned pieces.
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 Snakewood 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.
Snakewood FAQ
What is Snakewood best used for?
Common uses include violin bows, tool handles, inlay, veneer and small specialty or turned pieces. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Snakewood 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 Snakewood?
The buying section on this page links to any Snakewood 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.