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Woodworking/Walnut Burl wood value

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Expert: maura macaluso - 6/23/2009


Question

burl wood walnut
Good day sir, my question is in regard to a large chunk of walnut burl wood. I was given it as payment for a deht, so I would like to know its value. it is aprox. 2' x 2' x 1.75' , it has a light seal coat to protect is, and is well cured.

Answer
Hi Troy, It is hard to give you an exact value but generally, it is worth anywhere from a few hundred when sold to an independant crafter or woodworker, to many thousands when sold as veneer in the high end market.  Walnut burl veneer starts at around $30 a square foot.  Things that will affect value are the species of walnut, the figure of the veneer, the market it is sold in, the current going rates of walnut as a commodity, the rarity of the type of burl and how much of the burl is actually usable.  There are many uses for this burl, from gunstocks to gearshifts, furniture, bowls, pens, upscale car interiors.  You will need to have your wood assessed by someone who makes a living selling this type of product. The quickest way to get an idea of its value is to call or contact a few specialty wood outfits that handle Walnut burl lumber and pose as a buyer asking for a price.  At the end of the day, your burl is only worth what you can get someone to pay for it and it will take some work on your part to find the right market for your product.  Thanks for your question and good luck with your burl.
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentWell and good is your answer to my question. Thank you very much, the info you gave me will allow me to make a decision regarding this burl. Also you have eased my doubt, regarding being compensated fairly or cheated by my friend. In all fairness with what you told me, he has more than treated me right and I intend on expressing that to him. Thank You Should you ever have need of a master generator Tech. please don't hesitate to ask, as this is my field of expertise. Have a great day.


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maura macaluso

Expertise

I can answer almost all questions regarding woodcarving, chip carving, scroll sawing, carving tools and techniques and can answer most questions regarding wood. I am not an appraiser of carvings nor an antique dealer.

Experience

I am a custom woodcarver. I have been carving for many years now, have won numerous awards, and am very well connected in the world of woodcarving. I am the owner/operator of www.carvinginnyc.com

Organizations
national association of woodcarvers, woodcarvers of queens, Richmond county carvers club, carving life panel of experts

Publications
Chip chats, carving magazine

Education/Credentials
Have taken many, many classes and instruction from many fine carvers, I was originally self taught which is the best way to learn. Many thousands of carving hours later and I find that I am now well-respected.

Awards and Honors
numerous 1st place and other title awards at different venues

Past/Present Clients
My work is now in international collections

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