Ryan Scott
For woodturning enthusiasts in Wisconsin seeking exotic wood species, there are several reliable sources to explore. Local specialty lumberyards like Woodworker's Shop in Milwaukee or Exotic Lumber & Veneer in Madison offer a curated selection of rare and unique woods ideal for turning projects. Additionally, online retailers such as Woodcraft or The Wood Database often ship to Wisconsin, providing access to a broader range of exotic species. For those who prefer a hands-on experience, attending woodworking shows or auctions in the state can also yield hidden gems. Lastly, connecting with local woodworking clubs or forums may lead to recommendations for lesser-known suppliers or individuals selling exotic wood scraps and blanks.
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What You'll Learn
Local Wisconsin Wood Suppliers
Wisconsin's woodturning community thrives on access to unique, high-quality materials. For those seeking exotic woods, local suppliers offer a treasure trove of options, often with personalized service and a deep understanding of the craft.
Exploring the Landscape:
Wisconsin’s local wood suppliers cater to both hobbyists and professionals, with many specializing in exotic species like cocobolo, zebrawood, and purpleheart. Stores like *Woodcraft of Milwaukee* and *The Wood Shed* in Madison stock a variety of turning blanks, often sourced sustainably. These suppliers frequently update their inventory, ensuring access to rare finds. For instance, *The Wood Shed* offers pre-cut bowl blanks, ideal for beginners, while *Woodcraft* provides larger billets for experienced turners.
Sourcing Strategies:
To find the best local supplier, start by visiting woodworking clubs or forums like the *Wisconsin Woodturners Association*. Members often share insider tips on hidden gems, such as *Northland Lumber* in Green Bay, known for its African hardwoods. Another strategy is to attend local wood shows, like the annual *Wisconsin Woodworking Festival*, where suppliers showcase their most exotic offerings. Pro tip: Call ahead to confirm availability, as exotic woods can sell out quickly.
Cost and Quality Considerations:
Exotic woods come at a premium, but local suppliers often offer better deals than online retailers due to lower shipping costs. For example, a 2-inch-thick padauk blank might cost $25–$35 locally, compared to $40–$50 online. Inspect the wood for cracks or warping before purchasing. Suppliers like *Exotic Lumber & Veneer* in Eau Claire provide grading information, ensuring you get the best value for your money.
Sustainability Matters:
Many Wisconsin suppliers prioritize ethically sourced wood, a growing concern among turners. *Heartwood Creations* in Beloit, for instance, exclusively stocks FSC-certified exotic woods. Ask suppliers about their sourcing practices—reputable ones will be transparent. Supporting these businesses not only elevates your craft but also promotes responsible forestry.
Practical Tips for Success:
When buying exotic wood, consider the moisture content—ideally between 8–12% for turning. Suppliers like *Wisconsin Hardwoods* in Appleton offer kiln-dried options, reducing the risk of cracking. Store your wood in a controlled environment to maintain stability. Finally, don’t hesitate to ask for advice; local suppliers are often seasoned woodworkers themselves, eager to share their expertise.
By tapping into Wisconsin’s local wood suppliers, turners can access a world of exotic materials while supporting sustainable practices and fostering a sense of community.
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Online Exotic Wood Retailers
For woodturners in Wisconsin seeking exotic wood, online retailers offer a vast selection that local stores often can't match. Websites like Woodworkers Source, Exotic Wood Zone, and Bell Forest Products provide access to rare species like Cocobolo, Zebrawood, and Purpleheart, often with detailed descriptions of grain patterns, hardness, and drying methods. Many of these retailers source their wood sustainably, ensuring you’re not just buying quality but also supporting ethical practices.
When choosing an online retailer, consider their shipping policies, as exotic wood can be heavy and costly to transport. Some vendors, like The Wood Shed, offer flat-rate shipping or discounts for bulk orders, which can significantly reduce costs. Additionally, look for sites that provide high-resolution images or video previews of the actual wood you’re purchasing, as this minimizes the risk of receiving a piece that doesn’t meet your expectations.
Another advantage of online retailers is their ability to cater to specific needs. For instance, Craft Supplies USA specializes in woodturning blanks, offering pre-cut pieces in various sizes and shapes, ideal for beginners or those working on smaller projects. They also provide tools and finishing products, making them a one-stop shop for woodturners. If you’re unsure about a species, many sites include customer reviews and project examples, giving you insight into how the wood performs in real-world applications.
However, buying online isn’t without its challenges. Moisture content and stability are critical factors in woodturning, and some retailers may not provide this information upfront. To mitigate this, contact the seller directly to inquire about moisture levels and whether the wood has been properly dried. Also, be cautious of international sellers, as importing exotic wood may require permits or incur additional customs fees.
In conclusion, online exotic wood retailers are a treasure trove for Wisconsin woodturners, offering variety, convenience, and specialized options. By researching shipping policies, verifying wood quality, and leveraging customer feedback, you can confidently source the perfect material for your next project. Just remember to plan ahead for shipping costs and potential delays, and you’ll be well on your way to creating stunning turned pieces.
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Woodturning Clubs and Markets
Wisconsin's woodturning community thrives on shared knowledge and access to unique materials. Joining a local woodturning club isn't just about camaraderie; it's a strategic move for sourcing exotic wood. Clubs often pool resources to buy bulk wood from suppliers, securing better prices and access to rare species like cocobolo or zebrawood. Members also trade scraps and offcuts, ensuring no piece goes to waste. For instance, the Wisconsin Woodturners Association hosts monthly meetings where members bring wood to swap or sell, creating a mini-market within the club.
To maximize your club membership, attend workshops and demonstrations. Many clubs invite experienced turners who bring their own exotic wood collections for sale. These events are goldmines for finding unusual species like spalted tamarind or pink ivory. Additionally, clubs often maintain relationships with local mills and suppliers, giving members insider access to fresh cuts and discounts. Pro tip: Offer to help with club events or wood pickups—suppliers remember those who lend a hand and may reward you with first dibs on new stock.
If clubs aren’t your style, explore Wisconsin’s woodturning markets and shows. Events like the Great Lakes Woodturners Expo in Madison feature vendors specializing in exotic woods, tools, and finishes. These markets are ideal for hands-on inspection of wood grain and quality. Bring a moisture meter to check for proper drying, as exotic woods like African blackwood can crack if not handled correctly. Prices at these events are often negotiable, especially if you’re buying multiple blanks or larger pieces.
For a more consistent supply, tap into online marketplaces tailored to woodturners. Platforms like Woodturners Catalog or Exotic Wood Zone ship nationwide, but local Wisconsin sellers on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist often list smaller quantities at lower shipping costs. When buying online, request photos of the exact piece you’ll receive and ask about shipping methods to avoid damage. Pair online purchases with club connections—many members are willing to consolidate orders to save on shipping.
Finally, don’t overlook salvage opportunities. Wisconsin’s rural landscape means storm-felled trees or construction site clearings can yield exotic or rare domestic woods. Partner with arborists or construction companies to claim these treasures, but always verify the wood’s legality and safety. Treat salvaged wood promptly to prevent insect infestation or decay. Combining salvage finds with club resources and market purchases ensures a diverse, sustainable supply for your turning projects.
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Specialty Lumber Yards Nearby
Wisconsin's woodturning community thrives on access to unique, high-quality materials. While online retailers offer convenience, specialty lumber yards nearby provide tangible advantages for discerning artisans. Physically inspecting wood grain, moisture content, and overall quality ensures you select the perfect piece for your project. Local yards often source sustainably harvested or reclaimed wood, aligning with eco-conscious values. Additionally, building relationships with knowledgeable staff can lead to insider tips on upcoming shipments or rare finds.
For instance, yards like Woodland Lumber in Rhinelander specialize in exotic and domestic hardwoods, catering specifically to woodturners and furniture makers. Their inventory boasts species like cocobolo, zebrawood, and spalted maple, often in turning-friendly dimensions.
Locating these hidden gems requires a strategic approach. Start by contacting local woodworking clubs or guilds; members often share insider knowledge about reliable suppliers. Online forums and social media groups dedicated to Wisconsin woodturning can also yield valuable leads. Don't overlook the power of a simple Google Maps search for "exotic lumber" or "specialty woodturning supplies" within your desired radius. Remember, smaller, family-owned businesses might not have a strong online presence, so a phone call or in-person visit might be necessary.
Once you've identified potential yards, prepare for your visit. Bring a list of desired species, project dimensions, and budget constraints. Ask about moisture content, drying methods, and any potential defects. Don't hesitate to request to see multiple pieces of the same wood to compare grain patterns and color variations.
While specialty yards offer unparalleled selection, consider these factors: Prices may be higher than big-box stores due to the rarity and quality of the wood. Inventory can fluctuate, so frequent visits or establishing a relationship with the owner can increase your chances of finding that perfect piece. Finally, be prepared to transport your purchase; some yards may offer delivery for larger orders, but often you'll need a vehicle capable of handling bulky lumber.
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Salvaged and Reclaimed Wood Sources
In Wisconsin, woodturners seeking exotic species often overlook the treasure trove of salvaged and reclaimed wood. This material, sourced from deconstructed barns, factories, and riverbeds, offers unique grain patterns, rich patinas, and historical character impossible to replicate in new lumber. For instance, century-old oak beams from dismantled dairy barns or water-logged walnut recovered from the Wisconsin River can yield blanks with unparalleled depth and story. Sourcing these materials not only reduces environmental impact but also connects your craft to the region’s heritage.
To locate salvaged wood, start by contacting local demolition contractors or deconstruction specialists. Companies like *Wisconsin Deconstruction Alliance* often salvage timber from pre-1950 structures, ensuring access to old-growth species like butternut or white oak. Another untapped resource is river-recovered wood, which can be found through specialty suppliers like *Wisconsin River Wood*. These pieces, naturally cured underwater for decades, exhibit stunning mineral staining and density ideal for turning. Always inquire about the wood’s history and treatment to avoid hidden defects like metal fasteners or fungal decay.
Reclaimed wood also thrives in Wisconsin’s urban centers, where industrial buildings are repurposed. Milwaukee’s *Brew City Reclamation* stocks exotic hardwoods salvaged from factory floors, such as teak or mahogany, often in large dimensions suitable for bowl or hollow-form turning. For smaller projects, explore community wood banks or nonprofit organizations like *Habitat for Humanity ReStores*, which occasionally carry donated exotics at a fraction of retail cost. Pro tip: Visit these sources early in the week, as inventory turns quickly.
Working with salvaged wood requires specific techniques. Always stabilize river-recovered pieces by sealing end grain with wax or epoxy to prevent checking. For barn wood, remove nails and screws carefully to preserve the blank’s integrity—a metal detector can be a lifesaver. When turning, start with sharper tools than usual, as embedded dirt or metal can dull edges rapidly. Embrace imperfections like nail holes or weathering as design features; they add authenticity to your piece.
Finally, consider the ethical and legal aspects. Ensure your supplier has proper permissions to harvest river wood or deconstruct structures. Avoid purchasing wood from protected species or questionable origins. By choosing salvaged and reclaimed sources, you not only elevate your craft but also contribute to sustainable practices. Wisconsin’s rich architectural and natural history is waiting to be turned—literally—into your next masterpiece.
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Frequently asked questions
You can find exotic wood for turning at specialty woodworking stores like Woodworker's Shoppe in Milwaukee or Exotic Lumber & Veneer in Madison. Online retailers like The Wood Turning Store also ship to Wisconsin.
Yes, Hardwood Lumber Company in Wixom (with delivery to Wisconsin) and Wisconsin Woodturners Supply in Green Bay are great local options for exotic wood.
Yes, many woodworking clubs, such as the Wisconsin Woodturners Association, host events and meetings where members sell or trade exotic wood. Check their schedules for opportunities.
