{"product_id":"snakewood-pen-blank-22","title":"Snakewood Pen Blank","description":"\u003cp\u003e1 x 1 x 6\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood (Brosimum guianense) is an extraordinary tropical hardwood renowned for its distinctive snakeskin-like figure, rich reddish-brown coloration, and exceptional hardness. Often regarded as one of the most visually striking hardwoods available, Snakewood is highly sought after by woodturners, pen makers, knife makers, instrument makers, and fine craftsmen who appreciate rare and unusual natural materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts heartwood typically ranges from warm reddish brown and deep orange-brown to dark chocolate brown, accented by irregular black or nearly black markings. In highly figured pieces, these markings form dramatic patterns resembling the scales or skin of a snake, giving the wood its familiar name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood is exceptionally dense and fine textured, allowing carefully prepared surfaces to develop a smooth, lustrous finish. Its striking natural appearance makes it particularly desirable for premium custom pens, knife handles, bottle stoppers, jewelry, decorative turnings, and collectible woodworking projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough Snakewood can be challenging to work because of its extreme hardness and tendency to develop checks, its unique beauty makes it a rewarding material for experienced craftsmen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBotanical Information\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBotanical Name: Brosimum guianense (Aubl.) Huber\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFamily: Moraceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGenus: Brosimum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecies: Brosimum guianense\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Type: Tropical hardwood\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNative Origin: Tropical South America\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrimary Commercial Sources: Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and neighboring regions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood belongs to the Moraceae family, which also includes Osage Orange, Mulberry, and several other hardwood-producing trees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon \u0026amp; Trade Names\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood, Snakewood Wood, Letterwood, Speckled Letterwood, Amourette, Bois d'Amourette, and Brosimum guianense.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe name Letterwood refers to the wood's dark markings, which can resemble written characters or decorative lettering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImportant: Not every piece of Snakewood displays the highly developed snakeskin figure for which the species is famous. Some blanks have relatively subtle streaking or irregular spotting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; Distribution\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood is native to tropical South America, particularly the Guianas and parts of the Amazon Basin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tree grows in tropical forest environments and is generally smaller than many major commercial timber species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe highly figured heartwood is especially prized, but strongly patterned material represents only a portion of the wood produced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause of its density, distinctive appearance, and relatively limited availability in larger sizes, Snakewood is commonly sold in small blanks and specialty pieces rather than wide boards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts most popular uses include luxury pens, knife handles, decorative accents, fine turning, and other projects that make the most of smaller sections of richly figured wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColor \u0026amp; Appearance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood is famous for its remarkable natural color and pattern.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeartwood may display:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReddish brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrange-brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeep red-brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChocolate brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDark brown streaks\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlack or nearly black markings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIrregular spots and scale-like patterns\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sapwood is generally lighter, often appearing pale yellow or cream.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe characteristic snakeskin figure consists of dark markings against a warmer reddish-brown background.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFigure intensity varies considerably. Some pieces show bold, closely spaced patterns, while others display scattered markings or relatively plain grain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFreshly worked Snakewood may appear brighter and redder, with the color gradually deepening or mellowing over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClear finishes can enhance the contrast between the lighter background and darker markings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrain \u0026amp; Texture\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood generally features a very fine, even texture and grain that may be straight, irregular, or interlocked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon characteristics include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery fine texture\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDense, compact wood structure\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStraight to irregular grain\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOccasional interlocked grain\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDistinctive dark markings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAttractive natural luster\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent polishing potential\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts fine texture allows carefully worked surfaces to develop a smooth, almost glass-like appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wood's characteristic markings are especially attractive in small projects where the surface can be closely examined.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Characteristics\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood is among the densest and hardest commercially encountered hardwoods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRepresentative characteristics for Brosimum guianense include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAverage Dried Weight: Approximately 75 lbs\/ft³ (1,210 kg\/m³)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecific Gravity: Approximately 0.97 basic \/ 1.21 at 12% moisture content\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJanka Hardness: Approximately 3,800 lbf (16,900 N)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrain: Straight to irregular or interlocked\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTexture: Very fine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNatural Luster: Moderate to high\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColor: Reddish brown with dark brown to black markings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese figures are representative species values. Individual blanks may vary depending on moisture content, growing conditions, and grain structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStability \u0026amp; Durability\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood is well known for its tendency to develop checks and cracks during drying and storage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts exceptional density and internal stresses can make it particularly sensitive to rapid moisture changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven carefully dried Snakewood may develop fine surface checks if subjected to unsuitable storage conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor best results:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStore blanks in a stable environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid rapid changes in temperature and humidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep material away from direct heat and prolonged sunlight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInspect blanks carefully before machining.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse controlled drilling and cutting techniques.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllow blanks to acclimate before precision turning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor small projects such as pens and knife handles, proper drying and careful storage are especially important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood's hardness provides excellent wear resistance, but hardness alone does not prevent cracking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWorkability \u0026amp; Woodturning\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood is a rewarding but demanding material for woodturning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts extreme hardness can dull cutting tools quickly, while its density makes drilling and shaping more challenging than with most common hardwoods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSharp tools, light cuts, and careful heat management are essential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWorking considerations include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse very sharp turning tools and cutters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake light, controlled cuts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDrill slowly and clear chips frequently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid excessive heat during drilling and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInspect blanks for existing checks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMinimize aggressive cutting that may increase stress.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSand progressively using clean abrasives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllow the wood to acclimate before precision machining.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood is particularly appealing for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePremium custom pens\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePen turning blanks\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnife handles\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnife scales\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBottle stoppers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDecorative turnings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJewelry\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall boxes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCustom handles\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMusical instrument accents\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine woodworking inlays\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollectible handcrafted items\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts striking appearance makes it especially desirable for smaller premium projects where the wood's natural figure can be fully appreciated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinishing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood can develop an exceptionally smooth, polished surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuitable finishing options include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCyanoacrylate (CA) finishes for pens\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShellac\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLacquer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePolyurethane\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSelected hardwax oils\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWax and polishing compounds\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause Snakewood is extremely dense, finish penetration may be limited.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCareful surface preparation and testing are recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClear finishes can deepen its reddish-brown tones and enhance the contrast of the darker markings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA high-quality CA finish is often chosen for pens because it can provide a glossy protective surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid excessive heat during sanding and buffing, as heat and stress may contribute to checking in sensitive material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal Uses\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood blanks are excellent for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePremium pen blanks and custom pens\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnife handles and knife scales\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBottle stoppers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJewelry and accessories\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDecorative woodturning\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall boxes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCustom handles\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMusical instrument accents\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInlays and decorative trim\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine carving\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecialty woodworking\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArtistic and collectible projects\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause Snakewood is often available in smaller pieces and can be prone to checking, compact projects are particularly suitable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHealth \u0026amp; Safety\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood dust can cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotential concerns include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSkin Irritation: Dust may cause itching, redness, or dermatitis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRespiratory Irritation: Fine airborne particles may irritate the nose, throat, and lungs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEye Irritation: Dust particles may cause discomfort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSensitization: Repeated exposure may increase sensitivity in susceptible individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen cutting, sanding, drilling, or turning Snakewood:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse effective dust extraction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWear properly fitted respiratory protection appropriate for fine wood dust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse eye protection and a face shield when turning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid prolonged skin contact with wood dust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaintain good workshop ventilation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClean dust using extraction rather than compressed air.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCITES \u0026amp; Conservation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood (Brosimum guianense) is not generally listed under CITES.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, the species occurs in tropical forest environments where harvesting and export regulations may apply.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe most highly figured material is especially valuable, making responsible sourcing important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuyers and sellers should verify current forestry, import, and export requirements when necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInteresting Facts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNatural Snakeskin Pattern: Snakewood is named for the distinctive dark markings that resemble snake scales.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso Called Letterwood: Its irregular dark patterns can resemble written characters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExceptional Hardness: Snakewood is one of the hardest hardwoods commonly encountered in specialty woodworking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHighly Figured Material Is Uncommon: Not every piece develops the dramatic markings for which the species is famous.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine Polishing Potential: Its dense, fine texture can produce an exceptionally smooth finished surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProne to Checking: Despite its hardness, Snakewood requires careful drying and storage to reduce the risk of cracks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy Choose Snakewood?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood combines extraordinary natural figure, rich reddish-brown coloration, exceptional hardness, and beautiful polishing potential in one remarkable tropical hardwood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts dramatic dark markings create a distinctive appearance that is especially attractive in premium custom pens, knife handles, jewelry, and decorative turning projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor woodturners, pen makers, knife makers, and fine craftsmen, Snakewood offers a truly unique material for projects where visual character and craftsmanship are equally important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you're turning a custom pen, crafting a knife handle, or creating a collectible decorative piece, Snakewood provides remarkable natural beauty and distinctive character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOakbrook Wood Turning Supply offers Snakewood for craftsmen seeking premium exotic hardwood blanks with dramatic natural patterns, exceptional density, and outstanding decorative appeal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSnakewood, Snakewood wood, Snakewood blanks, Snakewood pen blanks, Snakewood turning blanks, Snakewood turning wood, Snakewood hardwood, Snakewood wood for sale, figured Snakewood, Snakewood figure, Snakewood knife scales, Snakewood knife handle blanks, Brosimum guianense, Brosimum guianense wood, Letterwood, Speckled Letterwood, Amourette, Bois d'Amourette, snakeskin wood, patterned hardwood, figured exotic hardwood, dense tropical hardwood, hard exotic wood, South American hardwood, exotic hardwood, exotic wood blanks, premium hardwood blanks, specialty hardwood blanks, pen making wood, pen turning blanks, woodturning blanks, wood lathe blanks, knife handle blanks, knife scale blanks, bottle stopper blanks, decorative turning wood, custom handle wood, musical instrument wood, fine woodworking, woodworking supplies, Oakbrook Wood Turning Supply\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Oakbrook Wood Turning Supply","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45234850857160,"sku":"Snake wood 59","price":15.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0004\/1399\/0978\/files\/rn-image_picker_lib_temp_c7328476-21b3-4180-b87a-01996d9c4a4a.jpg?v=1792338424","url":"https:\/\/oakbrookwoodturningsupply.com\/products\/snakewood-pen-blank-22","provider":"Oakbrook Wood Turning Supply","version":"1.0","type":"link"}