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Now, if you’ve been hanging around the woodshop a while, you may have heard folks chat about this wood. And if you haven’t, and you’re asking yourself “what is bubinga wood?”, you’re in for a treat.
Today, we’re gonna talk about this real beauty of a hardwood and maybe it’ll tickle your fancy.
Bubinga’s known for its stunning look and durable nature, making it a favorite among woodworkers who like something that stands out.
So, let’s dig into why Bubinga might just be the next wood you want to add to your stash.
Origin and History
Well, let me tell you, Bubinga’s story is as rich as the wood itself!
This beautiful hardwood comes from the heart of Africa, mostly from places like Cameroon, Gabon, and a few other spots in Central Africa.
Over there, folks have been using Bubinga for ages, making everything from furniture to drums that you’d hear in ceremonies.
Now, Bubinga didn’t stay a local secret for long.
When woodworkers from across the world caught wind of its strength and stunning grain patterns, it started popping up in high-end furniture and even musical instruments like guitars and drum shells.
It’s the kind of wood that’s both practical and eye-catching, so it wasn’t long before it became a favorite for anyone looking to craft something a little extra special.
Physical Characteristics
Oh honey, let me tell ya, Bubinga is one of those woods that just stops you in your tracks!
It’s got this beautiful reddish-brown color that ranges from a soft pinkish-red to a deep, rich burgundy.
And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some gorgeous purplish streaks running through it.
Now, the grain is mostly straight, but every so often, you’ll get this wavy, curly pattern that folks like to call “waterfall Bubinga.”
It’s like nature’s way of showing off, and boy, does it!
The texture is nice and smooth, almost silky when you run your hand over it after a good sanding. But, lemme warn you, this wood is heavy… Bubinga’s dense, which makes it super strong, but it also means you’re gonna get a little workout carrying those boards around the shop!
So if you’re looking for a wood that’s got both beauty and brawn, Bubinga’s the whole package.
And if bubinga is looking like it might not be the hardwood for you, I’ve got a whole bunch more for you to learn about over here!
Working Properties
Well, now let me give you the scoop on working with Bubinga.
First off, this wood is a dream to machine, cuts clean and sands down smoother than butter on a hot biscuit.
But, and here’s the catch, Bubinga’s hard. I mean hard.
If your tools aren’t sharp as a tack, you’ll be sweating like you’re in a July heatwave tryin’ to get through it.
It’s one of those woods that can dull your blades faster than you’d expect, so keep your sharpenin’ tools handy.
Another thing to keep in mind is that Bubinga can be a little tricky with its grain. Most of the time, it’s nice and straight, but if you’ve got a piece with that wavy or interlocking grain, it might give you a little sass when you’re planing or cutting.
Recommended Reading: Types Of Wood For Woodworking Projects 2024
But don’t you worry none, a little patience and some extra attention, and you’ll tame it just fine.
As for finishing?
Oh, darlin’, this wood loves a good oil finish. It really brings out those rich colors and makes the grain pop like nobody’s business.
A couple coats of oil or varnish, and you’ll be staring at your project like it’s a work of art.
Just be sure to watch out for the dust… Bubinga can be a bit irritating to the skin and lungs, so slap on that dust mask when you’re sanding or cutting.
In short, Bubinga’s got its challenges, but if you treat it right, it’ll reward you with a finished piece that’ll knock your socks off!
Special Tools
A good carbide-tipped blade will be your best friend when cutting Bubinga since it can handle the hardness without dulling too quickly.
And if you’re using hand tools like planes or chisels, keep a sharpening stone nearby, ‘cause you’ll likely need to touch them up more often than you would with softer woods.
Now, since Bubinga can create some fine dust that can irritate your skin and lungs, it’s smart to have a dust collection system or at least a good ol’ dust mask.
Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
Other than that, your regular woodworking tools will do just fine… just be prepared to show ‘em a little extra love when you’re done.
Common Uses
Bubinga isn’t just sittin’ pretty, it’s got plenty of uses to back up those good looks!
You’ll find Bubinga in all sorts of high-end furniture, the kind you’d see in fancy homes or maybe even a showroom.
Its strength makes it perfect for tables, chairs, and cabinets that need to hold up for the long haul.
But that’s not all!
Bubinga’s also a go-to for musical instruments, especially guitars and drums. The wood’s density gives instruments a nice, rich tone, and let’s be honest, it’s just plain gorgeous to look at, too.
Ever seen one of those sleek, polished guitars with that deep reddish grain? Chances are, that’s Bubinga!
So, whether you’re building a showpiece or just looking to add a touch of elegance to your home, Bubinga’s got the versatility to fit the bill!
Durability and Maintenance
Oh honey, when it comes to durability, Bubinga’s tougher than a two-dollar steak!
This wood is built to last, and I mean last. It’s naturally resistant to rot, which makes it a great choice for indoor furniture that’ll stand the test of time.
Now, while Bubinga can handle a bit of moisture, you’ll wanna be careful if you’re thinking about using it for outdoor projects, this wood is strong, but it’s not a big fan of constant exposure to the elements unless you seal it up real good.
As for pests? Well, those little critters don’t stand a chance with Bubinga. Its density makes it pretty much bug-proof, so you won’t have to worry about termites feasting on your hard work.
When it comes to keeping your Bubinga projects looking fresh, a little maintenance goes a long way.
Just give it a good polish now and again with some wood oil or wax, and that grain will keep shining like a brand-new penny.
And remember, since it’s such a hard wood, it’s naturally resistant to scratches and dings, but if you do get a little wear and tear, a light sanding and fresh coat of finish will make it good as new.
Availability and Cost
Well, let me tell ya, Bubinga’s one of those woods that you won’t find just anywhere, but it’s not so rare that you’ll be huntin’ for it like a needle in a haystack.
Being an exotic wood from Africa, it’s not as common as your local oak or maple, but most specialty lumberyards will carry it if you ask around.
And if they don’t have it in stock, they can usually order some for you pretty quick!
Now, let’s talk dollars and cents.
Bubinga’s definitely on the pricier side, since it’s a high-end wood (and certain species are endangered), you’ll be payin’ a bit more than you would for, say, pine or poplar.
On average, you’re lookin’ at around $20 to $30 per board foot, depending on the size and quality.
That might sound steep, but for a wood that’s as durable and stunning as Bubinga, it’s a pretty good investment if you’re working on a special project.
So, while it’s not the cheapest option out there, Bubinga’s worth every penny if you want something that’ll stand out and last a good long while.
Just be prepared to spend a little extra, and trust me, you won’t regret it!
Common Cuts
Here’s a table outlining the common sizes Bubinga wood is available in:
| Size Category | Dimensions | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lumber Boards | 4/4, 6/4, 8/4, and 12/4 (1″, 1.5″, 2″, and 3″ thick) | Common thicknesses used for furniture, cabinetry, and general woodworking. These boards typically come in various lengths (4-12 feet) and widths (4-12 inches). |
| Turning Blanks | 2″ x 2″ x 12″ and 3″ x 3″ x 12″ | Ideal for turning projects like bowls, spindles, and tool handles. Bubinga is often sold in these smaller, square blanks for turners. |
| Veneers | 1/42″ (approx. 0.6 mm thick) | Thin sheets used for fine furniture, paneling, and decorative work. Bubinga veneers showcase the wood’s beautiful grain patterns without the cost of solid lumber. |
| Slabs | 2″-4″ thick, 24″-36″ wide, 6′-10′ long | Thick, live-edge slabs are popular for creating unique tabletops, countertops, and custom furniture pieces. Bubinga slabs often highlight the wood’s natural grain and patterns. |
| Pen Blanks | 3/4″ x 3/4″ x 5″ | Small blanks specifically for pen turning, allowing woodworkers to create custom, high-end writing instruments. |
Pros and Cons of Bubinga
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning Appearance: Rich reddish-brown color with striking grain patterns, including wavy “waterfall” patterns. | Hard to Work With: Very hard, which can dull tools quickly. Frequent sharpening is needed. |
| Durability: Extremely strong and dense, making it perfect for long-lasting projects. | Heavy: Its dense nature makes it heavy, which can be physically demanding to work with. |
| Resistant to Rot and Pests: Naturally resists decay and termites, ideal for indoor projects. | Costly: As an exotic wood, it’s more expensive, typically around $20-$30 per board foot. |
| Finishes Beautifully: Takes oil and varnish well, enhancing the deep colors and grain. | Dust Irritation: The fine dust can irritate skin and lungs, so proper dust control is needed. |
| Versatile: Used in high-end furniture, musical instruments, and decorative items. | Limited Outdoor Use: Not ideal for outdoor projects unless sealed against moisture. |
| Bug-Proof: Density helps ward off pests like termites. | Environmental Concerns: Sourcing can impact tropical forests, so FSC-certified Bubinga is preferred. |
Environmental Impact
Well, when it comes to using exotic woods like Bubinga, we gotta think about more than just how pretty it looks in our projects.
Bubinga’s sourced from Central Africa, and like with a lot of tropical hardwoods, there’s some concern about the way it’s harvested.
Logging practices in these regions haven’t always been the most eco-friendly, and deforestation can be a big issue if the trees are being cut down faster than they can grow back.
But here’s the good news: there are ways to make sure you’re getting Bubinga that’s harvested responsibly.
Look for wood that’s certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). That means the Bubinga was sourced from a forest that’s managed in a way that protects the environment and local communities.
It’s like buying organic at the grocery store, you’re making sure your choice is good for the planet!
At the end of the day, we all love beautiful wood, but we also want to make sure we’re leaving something behind for the next generation of woodworkers.
So, do a little homework before you buy, and you can feel good about using Bubinga in your projects, knowing you’re doing your part to keep those forests healthy!
If you wanna know more about sustainability and our part in it as woodworkers, I wrote up a whole article about it.
Well, I think that’s all! Bubinga is one heck of a wood… strong, stunning, and ready to make any project look like a showpiece.
From its rich history in Africa to its jaw-droppin’ grain patterns and durability, it’s no wonder woodworkers are so smitten with it.
Sure, it can be a bit of a challenge to work with due to its hardness, and it might cost you a little more, but when you see that finished piece gleamin’ under the light, you’ll know it was worth every penny.
Whether you’re making a simple cutting board or diving into a more intricate piece of furniture, Bubinga’s got what it takes to elevate your woodworking game.
So why not give it a try on your next project? I guarantee once you’ve worked with Bubinga, you’ll be itching to use it again!
And remember, if you do tackle a Bubinga project, be sure to share your creations with us, I can’t wait to see what y’all come up with! Happy woodworking!