Maple lumber collection
Clean, pale domestic alternative for furniture and utility builds.
View optionSumac Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Domestic hardwood species
Sumac 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 nameRhus spp.
Janka hardness680 lbf
Average dried weight33 lb/ft³
Best fitInlay
Overview
Why choose Sumac?
Sumac is a domestic hardwood species. Its natural range is Northeastern United States. Common uses include inlay, carving, turned objects and small specialty items.
Scientific nameRhus spp.
DistributionNortheastern United States
DurabilityDecay resistance is poor, ranging from non-durable to perishable, and insects attack it readily.
Sumac colour, grain, and figure
Sumac and lignum vitae are among the few woods with a steady yellow to olive-green colour. The sapwood is greyish white.
The grain is typically straight to interlocked, and the texture is fine to medium. Sumac has a moderate natural luster.
Working notes
Overall it is easy to work, but its low density can leave fuzzy surfaces that need sanding to clean up.
Sumac is reported to irritate the skin.
Sumac should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Sumac
Best projects
Common uses include inlay, carving, turned objects and small specialty items.
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 Sumac 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.
Sumac FAQ
What is Sumac best used for?
Common uses include inlay, carving, turned objects and small specialty items. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Sumac 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 Sumac?
The buying section on this page links to any Sumac 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.