Whilst many turners relish the idea of using domestic hardwoods as part of a continuing connection with the environment in which we live, many yearn for a hint of the exotic.  We endeavour to cater for such ambitions with the range of imported timbers listed below.  We would ask you to take note that, whilst one can certainly suffer reactions and even long-term harm from injudicious use of domestic timbers, this risk is rather higher when using tropical timbers.  We recommend that you take medical advice if you develop any sort of reaction during, or after, turning such timber.  Research the subject beforehand and check that there are no known hazards with particular species that are likely to have a particular effect upon you.

We are please to have obtained supplies of high quality Italian-grown Olivewood, including stock of significant dimensions - up to 250 mm (10") square bowl blanks, 100 mm (4") in depth.  We also have cubes up to 150 mm (6") cube which could work well in a pestle and mortar project.  Of course we also have the smaller sizes of bowl blanks, as well as spindle blanks, but the pieces we have turned (example, left) have been superb and a large salad bowl in this timber would be sensational.  As you can see in the photo, the figure is quite dramatic and there's little to match the sweetness of turning olive - or the appetising odour.  Just one word of caution - be sure to clean your tools and any exposed lathe components after turning olive as the sap is corrosive and tools may discolour in use.

The following timbers are normally available from The ToolPost, though stocks do vary:-  Anjan  (Indian), Bodo  (African), Bubinga  (African), Ebony  (African), Goncalo Alves  (Brazilian), Imbuia  (Brazilian), Indian Rosewood (genuine), Jarrah  (Australian), Kingwood  (Brazilian), Lemonwood, Olivewood  (European), Padauk  (African), Pau Amarello  (Brazilian), Purpleheart  (Brazilian), Sonokeling (Indonesian) Rosewood, Zebrano  (African).
If you are ready to try something new, then our selection bags of mixed Exotic Timbers,
either  containing bowl blanks, turning squares, or a mix of both .

To order, simply enter the required quantities in the boxes for as many - or few - species and sizes as you require.  Then scroll to the bottom of the page where you may place your order simply by clicking on the "Order Timber" button at the bottom of the table.
We have tried to make this service a little more user-friendly by indicating if an order for a particular size of timber exceeds current stock availability.  However, please note that this is a guide to availability, not an exhaustive test.  It is possible to fool the system quite easily - the end result of which is that you could order timber which we cannot supply!