Add a burst of vibrant color to your workshop with African Padauk (Pterocarpus soyauxii) bowl blanks. Also known as Vermillion, this extraordinary exotic hardwood is prized for its stunning bright orange-red to deep blood-red heartwood that commands attention in any project. Known for its excellent turning properties and natural luster, Padauk cuts cleanly and polishes to a beautiful, almost glossy finish. Kiln-dried to 6‑7% moisture content, these blanks are dimensionally stable and ready for your finest turning projects — from striking art bowls and platters to jewelry boxes and decorative vessels.
Specifications
- Wood Name: African Padauk, Vermillion, Padauk
- Botanical Name: Pterocarpus soyauxii
- Length: Available in 4 – 10 inches
- Width: Available in 4 – 10 inches
- Thickness: Available in 2 inches
- Dried: Yes, Kiln Dried
- Moisture Content: 6‑7%
Features
- Stunning bright orange-red to deep blood-red heartwood color
- Medium to coarse texture with straight to interlocked grain
- Excellent stability and good dimensional behavior
- Kiln-dried to 6‑7% MC for immediate use and long-term stability
- Natural luster that polishes to a beautiful, glossy finish
- Every blank exhibits unique grain patterns and color intensity
Workability & Performance
- Excellent turning properties: Cuts cleanly and smoothly with sharp tools
- Moderate density: Good balance of durability and workability
- Sands beautifully: Responds well to sanding; natural luster emerges quickly
- Finishing: Use UV-blocking finish to slow color change, or embrace natural deepening to rich burgundy
- Color note: Vibrant red will slowly mellow to deeper burgundy-brown with UV exposure
Notes
- Natural variations in grain and color make each piece unique.
- Freshly cut surfaces show brightest red; color deepens with age and light exposure.
- May contain minimal natural oils that can affect gluing — wipe with solvent before glue-up.
- Please measure each piece carefully before starting any project.
- Dimensions are approximate and may vary by ±⅛".
- Photo is representative; you will receive a similar blank.
