Figure (wood)

Figure (wood) refers to the distinctive pattern produced by the grain of wood, which can significantly affect its aesthetic appeal and value. The figure is influenced by several factors, including the species of wood, the cut method, and any growth anomalies. Understanding wood figure is essential in woodworking, furniture making, and in the selection of wood for decorative purposes.

Types of Wood Figure

Several types of wood figure are recognized, each with its unique characteristics and appeal:

• Grain Pattern: The direction, size, shape, and appearance of the wood fibers. Common patterns include straight, spiral, interlocked, and wavy grain.
• Curl: A wavy figure that appears as a series of concentric ripples, often seen in species like Maple.
• Birdseye: Small, circular or elliptical figures resembling the eye of a bird, commonly found in Maple.
• Quilted: A three-dimensional, wavelike pattern that appears to be quilted. It is often seen in species like Mahogany and Maple.
• Burl: A highly figured pattern created by tree growths, resulting in a complex and highly sought-after pattern.
• Spalted Wood: Characterized by dark lines and patches, resulting from fungal decay. Spalted wood is prized for its unique appearance.
• Flame or Fiddleback: A figure that resembles the shape of flames or the back of a violin, with a series of parallel lines running vertically through the wood.

Factors Influencing Wood Figure

The figure in wood can be influenced by several factors:

• Species: Some species of wood naturally exhibit more pronounced figures than others.
• Growth Conditions: Environmental conditions, such as soil type, climate, and available nutrients, can affect the growth patterns of trees, thereby influencing the figure.
• Cutting Technique: The method used to cut the log into lumber (e.g., plain sawn, quarter sawn, rift sawn) can significantly impact the appearance of the wood's figure.
• Anomalies: Growth anomalies, such as burls and knots, can create unique and highly valued figures in wood.

Applications of Wood Figure

Wood figure is highly valued in various applications:

• Furniture Making: Highly figured wood is often used for decorative elements in furniture, adding beauty and value.
• Musical Instruments: Certain figures, like flame or fiddleback, are sought after in the making of musical instruments for both their aesthetic appeal and their impact on sound quality.
• Decorative Objects: Wood with unique figures is frequently used in the creation of decorative objects, such as sculptures, inlays, and veneers.

Conservation and Sustainability

The demand for highly figured wood, especially from rare or endangered species, raises concerns about conservation and sustainability. Sustainable forestry practices and the responsible sourcing of wood are essential to ensure that these natural resources remain available for future generations.