Violin Forum/Message Board

Dave Chandler · Posted: Sat Apr 16, 2016 6:23 pm Post subject: Maple Texture

I'm working with some very hard maple right now, and wondering if I should be concerned about the wavy nature of the wood where the hard lines of the medullary rays stand a bit higher from the softer wood in between. I know I can scrape it flat, but I've seen violins where it was left somewhat proud and it makes an attractiv wavy surface. What's your thoughts? Am I right, calling these medullary rays?

This wood is .62 density, but seems harder than similar wood I'ce worked with around .64, is it possible to be harder but have less density?
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Dave in the Blue Ridge
Southern Violin Association

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kjb · Super Member Joined: 06 Feb 2013 Posts: 385

I think I know what you are talking about, from my recollection of things I read,
some people like the wavy appearance and feel of that , If I remember right joe robson commented on that. and others. so apparently its not a problem and some feel its a benefit visually but not have a bad affect on the sound.

sorry if this vague answer does not help a lot of info hiding in my brain. not sure how much of it is accurate!