Tiger Curly Maple: Figured Lumber
Tiger and Curly Maple are terms used to describe the figure present in Maple. There are two main types of Maple that have the figure, Curly Hard Maple and Curly Soft Maple. The term Tiger Maple is most often given to Curly Soft Maple because the curly stripe in it resembles the stripe of a tiger.
The term Tiger Maple is also given to a Curly Maple with exceptional or heavier than the normal figure. Curly or Tiger Maple is highly prized for all forms of woodworking and can be purchased in 4/4 through 12/4 stock. Tiger Maple is also heavily used in the musical instrument industry.
Characteristics
Origin of Wood Type | Eastern U.S. |
Botanical Name | Acer Rubrum |
Specific Gravity | .60 |
Avg. Weight Per BF | 3.8 lbs |
Color Range | Light white sapwood, heartwood pink to grey |
Rarity / Availability | Common |
Typical Avg. Width | 5 – 14 inches |
Typical Avg. Length | 8 – 16 feet |
Avg. Waste Factor | 20% |
Wood Uses | All woodworking and cabinetry |
Lumber Grades | FAS through 2 common |
Other Trade Names | Curly Soft Maple, Curly Maple, Tiger Maple |