Sitka Spruce Guitar Tops

Yes, these sizes are True. The Measurements that you see are what you will be getting. For example, if it says 2" x 2" x 12” then that's the exact size you will be getting. However, If you ask, it will be planned or jointed. Then the answer is no. It will be rough sawn cut sizes.

Yes, we do custom size orders. But there has to be a minimum of $200 order. But again we try our best to help out in other cases if we can.

We give you the option. We know some people like to work with the most width and thickness possible. If we are not very busy then we do this for free. Please email us with any special requests to jockey@exoticwoodzone.com Shipping Info We like to keep things simple, and that includes getting your lumber products to you as efficiently as possible. Hence we have added free shipping on 100 percent of products.

Wood is waxed to safeguard it during the drying phase, preventing rapid drying that could lead to checking and warping. Additionally, it shields the wood from significant fluctuations in climate, temperature, and humidity that often occur during shipping. The application of wax is essential for preventing the loss of a substantial amount of wood due to checking and cracks. While the cost of wax and waxing is high, we employ this method exclusively to maintain the wood's quality.

When storing wood for future use or allowing it to dry, there's no need to remove the wax since it facilitates slow drying, preventing potential checking and warping. Removing the wax increases the risk of these issues. If immediate use is planned, there's no necessity to remove the wax as it will easily be cut away during the turning process. For wet or freshly cut blanks, employ the twice-turning method and a paper bag to gradually dry the blank without compromising its quality. The wax, being softer than the wood, will effortlessly turn away without noticeable resistance. If you intend to cut a bowl blank into smaller boards using a band saw, start with an initial cut to remove the wax (typically a 1/16" sacrificial piece). Adjust the fence for your desired board thickness and proceed with re-sawing. Remember to cut slightly thicker than your final dimensions to allow for later sanding or surfacing. Consider additional thickness if the blank is wet, accounting for the shrinkage as it dries. Sequentially number the boards as you cut them for tracking book-matched or sequential pieces. While a razor blade can be used cautiously, the most effective method is to remove the wax portion with a saw.

Typically, kiln-dried wood holds an advantage over its air-dried counterpart. In softwoods, the sap can be solidified to prevent seepage from pores, while in hardwoods, color retention is possible. For instance, Maple can maintain its pristine white appearance without the risk of golden/brown discoloration or grey streaks. Colored hardwoods, like Walnut or Bubinga, preserve white sapwood alongside evenly colored heartwood. The distinctive streaks and color variations often found in air-dried wood are less prevalent when wood undergoes kiln drying. Although an aggressive kiln schedule can be harsh on wood, proper drying renders it less susceptible to movement, making it preferable for furniture, boxes, and cabinets. Musical instrument softwoods, such as Spruce tops, usually undergo around 5 years of air drying, with some softwoods requiring even longer. Musical instrument hardwoods, like Rosewoods, undergo complete air drying with a gentle touch of kiln drying at the end. This low-temperature drying is gentle on the grain, preventing fiber damage that might affect the instrument's sound. Given the critical importance of resonance, we meticulously attend to the drying process for all our instrument woods. Generally, air-dried wood tends to exhibit richer, more unique colors, spalting, and patterns compared to kiln-dried wood, making it a more cost-effective choice.

Certainly, working with completely wet wood can yield stunning results, as seen in the creation of beautiful vases that are turned and then allowed to naturally dry, evolving into unique shapes reminiscent of flower petals. For this natural effect, Madrone or Madrone burl wood is particularly well-suited. Another approach is the "twice turned" method, commonly employed by turners to handle wood with moisture content. Details on how to utilize this technique can be found in our dedicated section. While it's generally advisable to let lumber dry before working with it, there are instances, especially during re-sawing, where cutting wet wood can expedite the drying process. Feel free to reach out, and we'd be happy to discuss your specific application.

For optimal storage, place wood in a cool, non-damp area away from direct sunlight. Ideally, store it in a climate-controlled environment resembling the conditions it will face as a finished product. A good storage method involves laying boards flat on a shelf or standing them on their ends with an 8-12 degree lean. If you acquire one of our turning blanks with a wax seal, position it on a shelf to allow slight airflow around it, facilitating a gradual drying process.

Once you've made cuts, it's crucial to promptly seal the ends for preservation. We suggest using latex paint, wax, or shellac for this purpose.

You take the length x width x thickness and then divide this by 144 (if all measurements are in inches)Here’s an example. A Lumber piece measures 20” wide, 48” long, and 1” thick Then the board feet will be 20 x 48 x 1

Once we receive your order, we generally start processing it within one business day. From there, the products included in your order will dictate how quickly we can ship them. We’ll keep you updated along the way, and send an email that includes delivery tracking information when your order departs our facility. If you have schedule questions before placing your order, feel free to email us jockey@exoticwoodzone.com and we’ll get them answered. If you want this shipped asap please email us also. If it's not urgent don't do it as someone who needs it shipped as soon as possible will get it delayed.

Yes, we do ship internationally. Please do email us with the shipping cost. International shipping is not free.

Yes, we have a 60-day return policy we pay for return shipping and we don't charge restocking fees. This is the best guarantee offered by us because we believe our customers need the best treatment and best pricing.

Yes, we utilize a network of freight shipping companies and are happy to arrange that for you.

Yes, once your order is submitted, processed, and leaving our facility, you’ll receive an email notification sharing delivery tracking information.

One of the most common issues with late packages is that the post office did not scan them for USPS shipping as intended. This means that your package is still on its way to you, but it just hasn't been scanned properly.