Sycamore

Sycamore is a versatile hardwood celebrated for its pale creamy heartwood with subtle grain patterns and occasional figure, offering a clean, elegant aesthetic ideal for a variety of artisan projects. Native to North America and Europe, Sycamore combines moderate hardness, excellent stability, and fine texture, making it a favorite for both functional and decorative woodworking applications.

Workable and reliable, Sycamore machines, turns, and sands easily, finishing to a smooth, polished surface that highlights its natural color and gentle grain. Its light tone and consistency make it perfect for pen blanks, knife handles, turned objects, small furniture accents, and decorative inlays, providing a subtle but refined canvas for craftsmanship.

Botanical Information

Scientific Name: Platanus occidentalis (American Sycamore) / Platanus × acerifolia (London/Hybrid Sycamore)

Family: Platanaceae

Origin: North America, Europe

Common & Trade Names

Sycamore, American Sycamore, Plane Tree, London Plane, Hybrid Sycamore

Workability & Characteristics

Moderate density and hardness

Fine to medium texture

Straight to interlocked grain

Machines, turns, and sands smoothly

Polishes to a clean, natural finish

Stable and suitable for small to medium projects

Health & Safety Note

Sycamore dust may cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals. Use proper dust extraction, respirator, and eye protection when cutting, sanding, or turning.

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