Description
Huon Pine (Lagarostrobos franklinii) is a species of tree native to Tasmania, Australia, and is highly regarded for its exceptional qualities as a timber for various woodworking applications, including guitar making. Here are some reasons why Huon Pine is considered a good timber for guitars:
- Density and Resonance: Huon Pine has a relatively low density compared to many other hardwoods used in guitar construction, such as rosewood or mahogany. Its lightweight nature can contribute to the guitar’s resonance and tonal qualities. Guitars made from Huon Pine often produce a warm and well-balanced tone.
- Stability: It is known for its exceptional stability and resistance to warping or cracking. This is crucial for guitar necks and bodies, as it helps maintain the structural integrity of the instrument over time. Stable wood is less likely to develop issues with string action or playability.
- Aesthetic Appeal: This timber is characterised by its pale, creamy-white to pale yellow colour with fine, straight grain patterns. It is a beautiful and visually appealing wood, which is desirable for high-end, custom, or boutique guitar designs.
- Workability: Huon Pine is relatively easy to work with due to its fine and even grain structure. It can be cut, shaped, and sanded with precision, making it a preferred choice for luthiers who need to craft intricate and finely-tuned guitar components.
- Rare and Unique: Huon is a slow-growing species and is protected in its native habitat. Because of this, it is considered a rare and sought-after timber. Guitars made from Huon Pine can have added value and appeal due to their rarity.
David from Australian Guitar Timbers mills all his own logs which then sit in strip and air dry for at least two years before being cut into blocks. The timber is then placed in a solar or electric kiln and dried further to between eight and ten percent moisture content. Nearly all of the logs David has are sourced locally here in Queensland with the exception of the Tasmanian timbers. Rather than trees being sent to be chipped they are saved and collected to be repurposed. Australian Guitar Timbers collects wood in a sustainable way and loves that they can convert the timber into a much loved instrument part.
