Tamboti Turning Blanks

Highly sought after by carvers and turners, Tamboti is regarded by some as the most beautiful African hardwood. It has rich dark brown heartwood, and a mottled, banded figure with breathtaking patterns. Very hard and lustrous, it has a sweet scent that will last for years, turns like a dream, and takes a very high polish. These turning blanks are available in an assortment of sizes for bowls, platters, carvings, bottle stoppers, chess pieces, tool handles, table legs, spindles, finials, candlesticks and whatever else your imagination can conjure up!

Due to high demand and limited supply, we cannot always guarantee that this item will be in stock. Turning Blanks come rough sawn to nominal thickness and are coated with wax. Distribution: Mozambique and throughout the forests of southern and eastern Africa. Alternate names/spellings: Tambuti, Tambootie, African Sandalwood. The Tree: Smallish, growing up to about 25 to 40 ft in height, with typical trunk diameters of 4 to 6 in. Deciduous, it thrives in wet, swampy areas. Heartwood: Light yellow-brown when freshly cut, but turns dark brown upon exposure, eventually aging to a dark reddish brown. Sapwood: Pale yellow to white. Nice contrast with heartwood. Texture: Very fine and even, straight-grained, sometimes wavy. Oily feel. Luster: Somewhat lustrous. Natural Durability: Heartwood is extremely durable; very resistant to fungi and insects. Working Characteristics: Due to its density, Tamboti is somewhat difficult to work. This does not stop carvers, however, as the results are stunning. Turners will have no problems whatsoever. Allergies: The milky resins and dust can cause severe irritation to the skin and eyes. Wear appropriate protective gear. Do not burn the scrap wood, as the smoke can cause headaches and nausea. Strength: Tamboti is hard, heavy and extremely strong.

Customer Reviews and Photos for: Tamboti Turning Blanks Average Rating: (4.0) (1 customer review) Add your review...

1) Submitted by Larry Clinton, from Loganville, GEORGIA on 10/19/2009 Customer Rating: Dense wood with nice grain patterns. Works well and polishes very well. I don't know if it is and extra oily wood or if this piece wasn't completely dry but it gummed up the sandpaper instantly. I still recommend it, just be aware of this. Tamboti Screwdriver handle (click to see full-size picture in new window)