A client asked me to construct some display boxes from " kiwi" wood. He said it was asian. The "knowledge base" yielded little. Does anyone know a source or perhaps another name for this wood? Thanks.
From contributor ma
Kiwi fruit grows on trees, so I presume that those trees could also produce a limited amount of lumber. My guess is, however, that you have the spelling wrong. For instance, kiawe is mesquite in Hawaii... not exactly Asia, but closer than NY. Pictures, samples, or just more info from the customer is likely in order.
From contributor Ar
Well down here in Kiwiland we have no such timber, and kiwifruit wood is not a cabinet making grade timber,-if you could get it large enough.
Sometimes I have heard Kauri, ( Agathis Australis ) referred to as kiwi wood but.
http://www.ancientkauri.co.nz/
From contributor Gi
Thank you fellows. I will try to find out more info from my client.
From contributor Da
Art-
Wow. Simply amazing. I had no idea of the size (or even of the existence) of those trees. And at 45,000 years old, I guess this is the ultimate "old growth" lumber.
Anyone have an idea of the bf cost?
Dave
From contributor Pe
Could it be Kiat? I think it is spelled that way...
From contributor Ar
Hi Dave,
'Ancient Kauri' is not expensive per se. I believe Nelson has an agent in the US who imports the stuff.
I do a lot of carving with the stuff I dig up. Need to keep sharpening blades! Halfway between wood and coal - but does not chip out at all.
Art
From contributor Da
Kiri (paulownia) is the "tansu" wood. It has unique properties. Fast growing and light, think balsa wood, it can absorb more humidity before swelling, than any other wood. Thus, making kiri ideal for containers in which to put important documents, etc. It's seeds were once used to pack china for shipment to the west where the seeds took root and are now sought after giants all around the US. There are, were?, paulownia plantations in Georgia one can buy from. Gino, I sent you a pm.
