Wood Guide
Sitka Spruce
Picea sitchensis
High stiffness‑to‑weight with a pale color makes Sitka spruce the classic choice for soundboards, masts, and aircraft restorations.
Overview
Tight, even growth rings in higher grades; very light color.
Maker’s note: Latewood bands are hard; use fresh cutters and light passes.
Appearance
Heartwood
Pale Straw
Pale Straw
Sapwood
Off‑White
Off‑White
Grain
Straight
Texture Medium
Luster Low
Properties
Janka hardness
410 lbf
410 lbf
Density
430 kg/m³
430 kg/m³
MOR
80 MPa
80 MPa
Crushing strength
45 MPa
45 MPa
Shrink (radial)
3.8%
3.8%
Shrink (tangential)
7.6%
7.6%
Shrink (volumetric)
12.3%
12.3%
Movement
Moderate
Moderate
Steam bending
Fair
Fair
Values are typical; verify with your supplier.
Workability & Safety
Machining
Planes cleanly with sharp blades; avoid tearing across latewood
Hand tools
Skew plane for smoother cuts over ring transitions.
Turning
Turns cleanly; delicate spindle work is possible.
Sanding schedule 120 → 150 → 180 → 220
Gluing Good
Finishing notes Clear finishes keep it pale; ambering oils add warmth.
Silica present
Blunting effect Low
Food contact OK
Toxicity flags
Toxicity notes No unusual hazards; standard PPE.
Sourcing & Sustainability
PNW specialty mills supply instrument‑grade billets.
FSC available
Pricing —
Notes: Instrument‑grade billets priced significantly higher than construction lumber. • Updated:
Uses & Positioning
Avoid for High‑wear tops
Choose for high stiffness/weight; select clear, tight‑grained stock for lutherie.
Gallery
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