Welcome to my new blog series!
This is where I’ll share my passion for wood and craftsmanship while educating you about the materials I use to create my products.
Every Sunday, I’ll dive into the unique characteristics of a specific type of wood, explaining its story, uses, and what makes it special for your home.
This week, I’m kicking off the series by spotlighting one of my favorite materials: African Padauk Wood.
What Makes African Padauk Special?
African Padauk (Pterocarpus soyauxii) is a vibrant, durable hardwood native to Central and West Africa. Its natural reddish-orange hue is a showstopper, making it perfect for products that demand attention and longevity.
Common Names: Vermillion, Coral wood
Best Uses: Cutting boards, charcuterie boards, wooden bowls, and furniture
Hardness: 1,725 lbf (Janka scale), ideal for items that withstand wear
Unique Trait: Over time, its color matures into a deep, warm brown, adding timeless appeal.
Why I Use African Padauk
When I craft cutting boards and charcuterie boards, the material matters. African Padauk excels because:
1. Durability: Dense and resistant to knife marks, ensuring your cutting board lasts.
2. Aesthetic Appeal: Its reddish hue pairs beautifully with food presentation, making it ideal for charcuterie boards.
3. Food-Safe Finishes: When properly finished, it’s safe for food contact and easy to clean.
For wooden bowls, African Padauk’s grain patterns and rich tones add a natural, rustic elegance to your dining table or kitchen.
Fun Facts About African Padauk
Historically, its sawdust was used to make natural dyes, giving it cultural significance.
In certain regions, it’s used in crafting ceremonial objects and musical instruments.
The wood has a faint, pleasant aroma when worked, adding to its charm during crafting.
How I Use African Padauk at Nedo Woodturning
I turn African Padauk into:
Cutting Boards: Durable and stylish for your kitchen needs.
Charcuterie Boards: Perfect for hosting and food display.
Wooden Bowls: Beautiful, functional, and timeless.
I also focus on sustainable sourcing to ensure the beauty of this wood is preserved for future generations.
Caring for African Padauk Products
To maintain the beauty of your African Padauk cutting boards, charcuterie boards, or wooden bowls:
Wipe clean with a damp cloth after use.
Regularly apply food-safe oils like mineral oil to keep the wood hydrated.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from prolonged sunlight exposure to preserve its color.
Join Me Every Sunday for Wood Stories!
Each Sunday, I’ll explore a new wood, helping you understand the unique traits and stories behind your favorite cutting boards, charcuterie boards, and wooden bowls.
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