We are excited to introduce a new section here on Experiment with Nature called Profiles! In this series we will offer insight into the materials we use, and also introduce you to some of the great people around the shop who help us create the world’s finest natural based eyewear. To start we have chosen to take a look at one of our more beautiful and elegant woods, Coastal Redwood Burl, which is utilized in various models in our Select Collection.
The Canby Select in Redwood Burl.
A burl is an abnormal growth on a tree, which can be caused by several factors causing the tree stress; from a fungus or a virus, to an injury to the tree. They can occur in the roots of the tree, at the base, or further up along the trunk. Coastal Redwoods have the unique ability to reproduce from the basal burls, and are often covered in foliage and new sprouts. They also have the propensity to form extremely large burls in the roots of the tree which can grow to great sizes. This characteristic allows sustainably minded harvesters of these ancient giants to utilize every portion of the tree. Much of our Redwood Burl comes from these root burls which in the past would most often have been left in the ground to rot or ground up to be burned in power plants.
A large burl grows partially up the trunk of a Coastal Redwood.
A large Coastal Redwood basal burl.
Burl does not feature the same grain as ordinary wood sections, and is therefore of virtually no use for construction or building purposes. The unique grain formations are however extremely beautiful and uniquely interesting when finely sanded, making it a highly sought after material for bowl and trinket making, fine furniture, and high-end desk and bar tops. It is this subtle and intricate beauty that makes Redwood Burl a perfect material for statement pieces like our Select Series.
A detail shot of finely sanded Redwood Burl.
We receive our Redwood Burl in unfinished and unbacked veneer sheets which are then pressed onto various combinations of Walnut and Birch layers depending on the specific model. These pressed layers are then cut out to shape and carefully hand worked to allow for fitting of hinges and lenses. We also employ it as an attractive accent piece on the temples of select models. All of our Redwood Burl applications feature a complex sanding process which is nearly double that of our more typical hardwoods to really bring out the pop and shine worthy of such a unique and intricately grained material.
Sheets of Redwood Burl Veneer.
Redwood Burl Canby Select frames going through the sanding process.
The finished product is nothing short of stunning and we are truly excited to be able to offer such a unique and sought after material harvested in a sustainable and nature friendly manner. To see more photos and get specific information about which of our products feature Redwood Burl visit Shwoodshop.com and check back soon for the next installment of our Profiles feature.
The Canby Selects in Redwood Burl.
The Haystack Select in Ebony & Redwood Burl.
