Where to Buy Sapele Wood Near Me: A Complete Guide
As furniture makers, woodworkers, or DIY enthusiasts, we all know how critical it is to have access to high-quality wood. Sapele wood, with its attractive reddish-brown hue and straight grain patterns, is an excellent choice for various woodworking projects. However, finding a reliable source for sapele wood can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the industry.
In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about where to buy sapele wood near me, including the different types of sapele wood available, the benefits of using it for woodworking, and some of the best sapele wood suppliers and dealers in the market.
Types of Sapele Wood
Sapele wood comes from the sapele tree, native to tropical regions in Africa. The wood is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to wear and tear. It is a popular choice for furniture, flooring, plywood, and musical instruments.
There are two main types of sapele wood, plain sawn and quarter sawn. Plain sawn, also known as flat sawn, is the most common type and is obtained by cutting straight through the log. It has a distinctive cathedral-like pattern on its surface, with some variations in texture and color. Quarter sawn sapele wood, on the other hand, is achieved by cutting the log into quarters before slicing it. This method produces a more uniform and stable grain pattern, which looks great on furniture and flooring.
Benefits of Using Sapele Wood
Sapele wood is a versatile material with several advantages that make it a top choice for woodworkers. Firstly, it has a pleasant and uniform texture that makes it easy to work with, whether you are cutting, sanding, or polishing. Secondly, it has a high resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage, which makes it an ideal choice for outdoor furniture and decking. Moreover, sapele wood is also an eco-friendly option since it comes from sustainable sources.
Where to Buy Sapele Wood Near Me: Top Suppliers and Dealers
Now that you understand the different types and benefits of sapele wood let’s explore the best sources for buying it near you.
1. Woodworkers Source
Woodworkers Source is an excellent online store that specializes in high-quality wood products, including sapele wood. They offer both plain sawn and quarter sawn sapele wood in various sizes and thicknesses, depending on your project needs. The store also provides a wealth of information on woodworking techniques, project ideas, and tutorials that can help you improve your skills.
2. Bell Forest Products
Bell Forest Products is another reliable online store that stocks a wide range of exquisite woods, including sapele wood. They have a range of sizes, grades, and thicknesses of sapele wood that you can choose from. Their website is user-friendly, and they have exceptional customer service that can help you navigate the buying process and answer any questions you may have.
3. Woodcraft
Woodcraft is a brick-and-mortar store with several locations in the US that stocks a variety of woodworking tools and supplies, including sapele wood. They have a range of sizes and cuts of sapele wood, and you can choose the grade and thickness that suits your specific needs. The store also provides expert advice on woodworking and has a vast community of woodworkers who share their experiences and knowledge.
4. Craftsmen Supply Center
Craftsmen Supply Center is a family-owned business that has been in operation for more than 60 years. They are known for their high-quality woodworking supplies, including sapele wood. They have a range of sizes and thicknesses of sapele wood in stock, and they can also custom mill the wood to your specifications. You can visit their showroom or shop online for convenience.
5. Global Wood Source
Global Wood Source is a unique store that specializes in rare and exotic woods, including sapele wood. They have a wide range of cuts and sizes of sapele wood, and they can also provide custom milling services. Their website is user-friendly, and you can order online or visit their showroom in California.
FAQs
1. Can I buy sapele wood online?
Yes, several online stores specialize in selling high-quality sapele wood, including Woodworkers Source, Bell Forest Products, and Global Wood Source.
2. What is the difference between plain sawn and quarter sawn sapele wood?
Plain sawn sapele wood has a cathedral-like pattern with some variations, while quarter sawn sapele wood is more uniform and stable.
3. Is sapele wood suitable for outdoor furniture?
Yes, sapele wood is highly resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage, making it an ideal choice for outdoor furniture.
4. Can I customize the size and thickness of sapele wood I buy?
Yes, most suppliers and dealers offer custom milling services that can cut the wood to your specific requirements.
5. Is sapele wood environmentally friendly?
Yes, sapele wood comes from sustainable sources and is an eco-friendly option for woodworking projects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sapele wood is an excellent choice for various woodworking projects, and finding a reliable source to buy it near you is essential. With this guide, you now have a better understanding of the different types of sapele wood, its benefits, and some of the best suppliers and dealers in the market. Always ensure that you buy from a reputable source that offers high-quality wood products and excellent customer service.