: I got my hands on some Western Big Leaf Maple that I'm planing on using for
: seat frames and thwarts in my next canoe. I'm wondering what the wood does
: when exposed to light. It has nice fiddle back grain and a light stain
: would really bring this out, but so would the sun if the wood darkens with
: exposure, any thoughts. Thanks

: Bob

Hi Bob

I'm not familiar with "Western Big Leaf Maple" by species, but, about any wood I can think of will " TAN " with exposure to U.V. I'm sure it will yellow or just darken with time. It is best that you use some sort of U.V. blocker when finishing. If you are looking for a particular look, then you need only leave a small sample in the sun and after several hours, compare it with other samples which have been protected. Be aware that even wood that sits in the shade after it has been freshly cut, will eventually change color as the moisture is evaporated out of it. Not the extreme change that the U.V. will cause, but, upon comparing samples, you will see variation. Hope that helps.

Rehd