Spalted Wood

Learn how wood and fungi interact--then create your own beautiful boards
by Sara Robinson

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Any product associated with rot and decay is likely to have an image problem. Spalted wood is no exception: You’re more likely to find it in your firewood pile than in your local lumberyard. However, a growing number of woodworkers are looking past the decay and discovering the beauties of spalted wood. In this Closer Look article, Robinson explains how spalting occurs in the wild and shows how you can try to re-create this process under controlled conditions at home. She also shares tips for working with this unique material.

MORE ON SPALTING

Read Robinson’s new column on spalting in the woodworking life blog

From Fine Woodworking #199