American Lacewood: Bold Lace Figure and Unique Turning Character

American Lacewood is most commonly Quarter-Sawn American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), known for its distinctive “lace” or flecked figure. The dramatic pattern comes from large medullary rays that become highly visible when the wood is quarter sawn, creating a striking speckled or lace-like appearance.

For woodturners, American Lacewood offers unique visual texture, good stability, and smooth turning characteristics, making it a standout choice for decorative projects.

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Species Information

• Scientific name: Platanus occidentalis
• Common names: American Lacewood, American Sycamore
• Native region: Eastern and Central United States
• Family: Platanaceae
• Janka hardness: Approximately 770 lbf

American Lacewood is not a separate species—it is Sycamore that has been cut in a way that reveals the lace figure.

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What Creates the Lace Figure?

The lace pattern is caused by large medullary rays, which are structural features in the tree that transport nutrients horizontally.

When the log is quarter sawn:

• The rays are exposed prominently
• Flecked or spotted patterns appear
• A lace-like surface texture develops
• Strong light reflection enhances depth

The more perfectly quarter sawn the board or blank, the more dramatic the lace effect.

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Color and Appearance

American Lacewood typically ranges from cream to light tan, sometimes with subtle pink or pale brown undertones.

Appearance characteristics include:

• Light cream or tan background
• Prominent flecked or lace pattern
• Strong visual texture
• Moderate natural luster

The lace figure adds depth and complexity even though the base color is relatively light.

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Grain Structure and Texture

American Lacewood has an interlocked grain with a medium texture.

Grain characteristics include:

• Interlocked grain
• Medium texture
• Prominent ray fleck
• Distinctive surface pattern

Because of the interlocked grain, careful tool control is important to avoid tearout.

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Turning Characteristics

American Lacewood turns well but requires attention to grain direction.

Turning performance highlights:

• Cuts smoothly with sharp tools
• May show minor tearout in interlocked areas
• Good detail holding ability
• Moderate density and weight
• Easy shaping with proper technique

Light finishing cuts and sharp tools help maintain a clean surface.

It performs well in both spindle and bowl turning.

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Stability and Durability

American Lacewood offers good dimensional stability when properly dried.

Performance characteristics include:

• Moderate strength
• Stable for indoor use
• Reliable finished performance
• Durable for decorative and moderate-use projects

It is well suited for items that will remain indoors.

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Ideal Uses for Woodturning

American Lacewood is especially valued for decorative turning where figure is the focal point.

Common uses include:

• Bowls
• Hollow forms
• Decorative vessels
• Boxes
• Platters
• Spindles

The lace pattern becomes especially striking on curved surfaces, adding movement and depth.

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Sanding and Finishing

American Lacewood sands well but may require attention to avoid raised grain.

Recommended sanding progression:

• Start at 150 grit
• Progress through 220, 320, and 400 grit
• Continue to 600 grit if desired

Finishing options include:

Oil finishes

• Enhance lace contrast
• Add warmth

Lacquer or polyurethane

• Provide protection
• Increase clarity and depth

Dyes (optional)

• Can emphasize ray fleck contrast

Clear finishes are typically preferred to showcase the natural lace pattern.

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Why Woodturners Choose American Lacewood

American Lacewood (Platanus occidentalis, quarter sawn) provides woodturners with a distinctive, lace-like figure and dependable turning performance. Its light color and dramatic ray fleck create strong visual texture without overpowering the design.

For woodturners seeking a unique domestic hardwood with eye-catching figure and reliable workability, American Lacewood is an excellent and rewarding choice.