Of course every veneer is unique, but spalted maple takes it to a whole new level. Spalting is a 2 to 6 year decaying process in which harmless fungi begin the process of decomposing the wood fibers and converting it back to soil. These amazing organisms are responsible for creating an array of colors in the wood that range from delightful yellow to warm pink and cool gray. But it is the random black lines created by the fungi that makes this veneer so unique and desirable.

Spalt is the visual effect of the start of a natural decaying process that is accelerated by this fungi. The trick is to slice the log before it has turned soft or "punky". The best logs are harvested and sliced into veneer during a short span of time in which the wood is reasonably stable but also plentifully colored. Once sliced and dried, the spalting process stops and the character of the wood becomes permanent. It is important to note that spalt is not mold.

Important Notes

• Spalted maple wood veneer is a bit more fragile than most other veneers, and some weak spots should be expected. 
• End splits are common, but these are usually easy to repair with veneer tape. 
• Worm holes are often present in spalted veneers and are sometimes not visible in the pictures.
• Large sheets of paper-backed spalted maple veneer are in stock.
• We recommend the medium tone of X-Press™ veneer glue for the veneer in this category.
• We always try to photograph the worst or least-figured side of every bundle of veneer we have in stock. This means that you will always get a veneer from the pictured bundle that is as good or better than what you see on our website.