The traditional
wood of choice for ukuleles is koa (acacia koa). Endemic
to the Hawaiian Islands, koa is known for it's beautiful
deep golden color, and it's exquisite figure, with some
boards showing very curly grain. Koa is a wonderful
tonewood, giving a sound that is warm and rich.
I also use brazilian rosewood
(dalbergia nigra). Very dense and aromatic, it is a deep
reddish brown in color with black streaks. It's sound is
very resonant and bright. The brazilian rosewood I use is
a reclaimed product, taken legally from old growth stumps
in Brazil. This is the only legitimate way of obtaining
this highly sought after wood.
Many other wood species work
well for ukuleles, such as mahogany, mango and claro
walnut. These woods, and many others, are available.
Please inquire.
For soundboards, I usually use
either koa or sitka spruce. Other options are available,
including western red cedar, mahogany, old growth
redwood, and monterey cypress.
For finger boards, ebony and
rosewood are the two most common choices. Curly koa,
cocobolo, coconut palm wood, and bamboo also work well. I
will usually match the fingerboard wood with the bridge.
Necks are koa or mahogany. I use
premium enclosed gear tuners, either Schaller minis or
Gotoh. Friction pegs are available on request.
All instruments feature
fingerboards inlayed with abalone, white or gold mother
of pearl. Please inquire about custom inlay options.
All instruments are bound with
either celluloid, which comes in black, white, ivory or
tortoise, or with wood, either ebony, rosewood, or koa.
Fingerboard binding is optional.