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Exotic, eye-catching, and full of natural character, banksia is a truly unique material prized by woodturners and artisans. We offer banksia pods—the woody fruit of the Australian banksia tree—perfect for creating one-of-a-kind decorative pieces, pens, knife handles, and small turned objects. Each banksia pod features a striking pattern of natural holes and rich, reddish-brown tones, offering endless creative potential. When turned and polished, the pods reveal intricate textures and dramatic visual appeal that make every finished piece stand out. Banksia is ideal for resin casting, lathe work, and mixed media projects. As a proudly Canadian company, Windsor Plywood is your source for rare and hard-to-find woods and turning blanks. Whether you're an experienced wood artist or exploring new materials, banksia offers a bold and beautiful way to add something truly special to your next project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What softwood species are available in live edge at Windsor Plywood?
Pine, fir, cedar, and spruce are the most commonly available live edge softwood species at Windsor Plywood. Each has distinct grain character and colour. Cedar has natural decay resistance making it suitable for outdoor applications; pine and fir are well-suited for indoor furniture and shelving.
Is live edge softwood suitable for dining tables?
Softwoods like pine and fir are softer than hardwood species and will show dents and scratches more readily under daily dining use. They are better suited for coffee tables, shelving, decorative pieces, and lower-traffic surfaces. If hardwood-level durability is needed for a dining table, consider maple or walnut slabs instead.
How does the price of live edge softwood compare to hardwood?
Live edge softwood is generally less expensive than comparable hardwood species due to faster growth cycles and wider availability. Pine and fir slabs offer the natural edge aesthetic at a more accessible price point, making them practical for larger surface areas like countertops and bar tops.
Can live edge softwood be used outdoors?
Cedar is the primary softwood with the natural oils and decay resistance for outdoor use in Canadian conditions. Pine, fir, and spruce require proper sealing and are better suited for covered outdoor areas where they will not be directly exposed to rain. Even sealed softwood will require maintenance over time outdoors.
What is the grain character of fir versus pine in live edge slabs?
Douglas fir has a pronounced, tight straight grain with reddish-brown tones that become richer over time. Pine shows more variation, with wider grain rings, knots, and a warmer, lighter amber tone. Fir tends to be harder and denser than most pine species, making it slightly more durable as a furniture material.