Selecting the right wood for your project begins with understanding its natural character, workability, and visual appeal. At Cook Woods, we source a wide range of domestic and exotic hardwoods, each chosen for quality, figure, and performance. In this edition of Know Your Woods, we explore Redwood and Piquiarana, two distinct species that offer both beauty and versatility for a variety of applications.
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Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens)
Redwood is a classic West Coast species known for its warm color, straight grain, and natural resistance to decay. Ranging from light red to deep reddish brown, it offers a clean and consistent appearance that works well for a wide range of projects, including outdoor furniture, decking, and large slab applications.
In addition to straight grain Redwood, Cook Woods offers the highly sought after figured varieties such as Curly Redwood and Redwood Burl. Curly Redwood displays a shimmering, rippled grain that creates movement and depth under finish, making it a favorite for fine woodworking and musical instrument applications. Redwood Burl, including lace burl, is even more distinctive, featuring intricate patterns, eyes, and complex figure that make each piece completely unique.
These figured forms are far more rare and are typically reserved for high end projects where visual impact is the priority. While Redwood is generally easy to work, burl and curly material benefit from careful handling and finishing to fully bring out their character.
Common uses:
Outdoor furniture, decking, slab tables, musical instruments, decorative woodworking, and specialty projects
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Piquiarana (Caryocar species)
Piquiarana is an exotic hardwood from South America known for its strength, density, and distinctive grain. It typically displays golden to medium brown tones with darker streaks that add contrast and movement across the surface.
This wood is notably dense and durable, making it well suited for applications that require strength and longevity. While its hardness can present some challenges, it machines cleanly with sharp tools and finishes to a smooth surface that highlights its natural character.
Piquiarana is an excellent choice for woodworkers seeking something less common, offering both performance and a unique visual presence in finished projects.
Common uses:
Furniture, flooring, tool handles, turning projects, and specialty woodworking applications
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About Cook Woods
Cook Woods is a family owned and operated hardwood supplier specializing in high quality domestic and exotic woods from around the world. With decades of experience and a full service sawmill on site, we take pride in offering carefully selected lumber, slabs, turning blanks, and specialty wood. Each piece is individually photographed so you know exactly what you are getting. Whether you are a seasoned woodworker, luthier, or just starting your next project, Cook Woods is here to help you find the right wood to bring your ideas to life.