Choosing the wood

[Stevej72]

I want to make a nice pen for my uncle that lives in the Seattle area. I was thinking of a wood native to the pacific northwest, but, unsure of what would be the best. Any ideas?

 

[Skye]

Redwood burl?

Yew (if you can get it)

 

[jthompson1995]

Myrtle?

 

[DCBluesman]

Myrtlewood (or myrtlewood burl) or big leaf maple (and its burl) will both make beautiful pens and are typical local woods.

 

[Dario]

I am wil Lou and will also go with Myrtlewood or Maple...both are nice especially burls or fiddleback/curly figured pieces.

 

[kent4Him]

Like usual, I agree with Dario.

 

[Scott]

Also consider Madrone burl (Arbutus). Very pretty stuff!

Scott.

 

[broitblat]

I agree with Maple (burl, ambrosia, or spalted), Madrone Burl, or Myrtle Burl. I live in the Seattle area and Maple is probably the most prevalent of these. You'd have to "go" to Oregon for the Myrtle.

 

[Dario]

Madrone is pretty when "fresh"...turns brown from pink very fast though. Warps and cracks like crazy too if you get it green so be careful. []

 

[penbros]

I also agree with all of the suggestions here

 

[ctEaglesc]

I am not sure where you would find it, but rather than base it on species, have you tried looking for the lumber they are bring up from the bottoms of lakes and rivers?
This would be old virgin timber from lags that were harvested over 100 years ago.
Not exactly Irish bog oak but a conversation piece nonetheless.
You would then have native spieces and an instant "heirloom"

 

[Stevej72]

Thanks for the input everyone! I'll go online and see if I can find some pictures of the recommended woods and make a decision.