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Windsor Plywood has been a trusted source for specialty lumber and hardwoods across western Canada for decades. Our specialty lumber selection goes well beyond standard framing grades, offering premium domestic and imported hardwood species suited for fine furniture making, custom cabinetry, architectural millwork, and decorative woodworking projects of all scales. Species available include hard maple, red oak, white oak, walnut, cherry, birch, alder, poplar, and a rotating selection of exotic and figured hardwoods depending on current inventory. In addition to solid hardwood lumber, we carry live edge slabs, figured wood for tabletops and accent pieces, and hardwood plywood in species to match. Windsor Plywood staff are knowledgeable about the properties and working characteristics of each species and can help you select the right material for your specific application. Visit your local Windsor Plywood to browse current specialty lumber stock and discuss your project with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is kingwood and what makes it distinctive?
Kingwood (Dalbergia cearensis) is a small-diameter Brazilian rosewood-family hardwood with a deep violet-purple to red-brown colour with dark black streaking. It has a very fine texture, a Janka hardness of approximately 3150, and takes a high natural polish. Kingwood is one of the most highly figured and prized specialty hardwoods for turning, inlay, marquetry, and small decorative woodworking.
Is kingwood subject to CITES restrictions?
Yes. Kingwood is a member of the Dalbergia genus, which is listed on CITES Appendix II. This means international commercial trade requires permits and documentation confirming legal harvest and export. This listing significantly affects availability and pricing. Windsor Plywood sources exotic hardwoods through established suppliers with appropriate documentation. Contact your local branch for current availability and sourcing information.
What is kingwood used for in woodworking?
Kingwood is primarily used for pen turning, small decorative boxes, inlay work, marquetry, musical instrument accents such as fingerboard dots and rosette inlays, and small turned objects where its exceptional colour, figure, and high natural polish are appreciated. The small diameter of kingwood trees means that wide boards are not available, making it a specialty small-piece material.
How does kingwood finish?
Kingwood sands to an extremely high natural lustre and can often be finished with just wax or a light oil to reveal its colour and figure. Film-forming finishes also work well. Like other rosewoods, kingwood's natural oils can interfere with some adhesives and finishes — wipe the surface with mineral spirits before gluing or applying a film finish.
Does Windsor Plywood carry kingwood?
Windsor Plywood carries kingwood as a specialty exotic hardwood in turning blank and small-section dimensions subject to current availability and CITES documentation requirements. Contact your local Windsor Plywood branch to confirm current stock.