European Beech

Scientific name:  Fagus sylvatica

Description:  European Beech is pale straw color, sometimes with a pink or brown hue. Veneer tends to be slightly darker coloured, as slicing the veneer usually requires the wood to be prepared with steam, which gives the wood a more golden tone. Flatsawn surfaces tend to be somewhat plain, while quartersawn surfaces exhibit a minute ray fleck pattern.  Grain is straight; fine to medium uniform texture and moderate natural lustre.

Properties:  Overall good workability; it machines well, and glues, finishes, and turns well. Beech also responds superbly to steam-bending. However, it does have a large amount of movement in service, so movement and wood stability must be considered.