I received my regular order of Zebrawood and when I got it I noticed that there were dark squiggly lines on the surface but I didn't think much of it.
Until I started sawing up the pieces for some paddles. Then I found that these lines went all the way through the wood.
I was told this is spalted Zebrawood and is popular with guitar makers. I've been making Zebrawood calls for 15 years and this is the first time I have come across spalted Zebrawood.
Now for my question, since these lines look like something a youngster would do with a marks a lot would you consider buying a call with those lines?
Personally I don't like it.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51104599540_204d704d15.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kRWqZb)
Bill
Spalted calls are cool looking.
Yes I agree some spalted calls look great. But to me I wouldn't want to pay $100 for a call with a paddle like that one.
Bill
I like spalting.
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Personally I'd dig it.
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i don't see what's wrong with it....... i found a piece of red cedar that was splated, cool piece of wood.....
O.K. guys this is what I wanted to find out. So far it looks like I am in the minority on this.
Bill
spalted wood is usually weaker as it's starting to deteriorate. Knife makers use it in handles, but only after it has been stabilized. I have seen it used in pots before and have one, but I wouldn't want it in a paddle.
Quote from: eggshell on April 08, 2021, 07:23:06 PM
spalted wood is usually weaker as it's starting to deteriorate. Knife makers use it in handles, but only after it has been stabilized. I have seen it used in pots before and have one, but I wouldn't want it in a paddle.
That is an excellent point.
Bill
Not sure how it would work out as a paddle, but if it sounded good, I would be fine with it, added character.
Quote from: bbcustomboxcalls on April 08, 2021, 07:34:14 PM
Quote from: eggshell on April 08, 2021, 07:23:06 PM
spalted wood is usually weaker as it's starting to deteriorate. Knife makers use it in handles, but only after it has been stabilized. I have seen it used in pots before and have one, but I wouldn't want it in a paddle.
That is an excellent point.
Bill
X2 .. I don't care for it myself, especially for paddles ...
Wouldn't matter either way too me,
If it sounds good great! I make a call called the Woods Witch from spalted sycamore, box and paddle. Very touchy to get great sound from this for me. When they are good they are very good. A hardwood paddle is much more forgiving on a softer wood. Seems that way anyway.