Sapele Plywood
Sapele plywood is a type of engineered wood made from thin layers or plies of Sapele wood, which is a tropical hardwood native to West Africa. It is known for its durability, attractive reddish-brown color, and fine grain pattern. Sapele plywood is prized for its stability, smooth surface, and ease of finishing, making it a popular choice in woodworking and furniture making.
The Sapele hardwood, used to make Sapele plywood, primarily comes from West African countries. It is typically available in thicknesses of 1/4 inch and 3/4 inch, providing flexibility for various applications.
While Sapele and Mahogany plywood can look similar due to their reddish hue and fine grain, they differ in several ways. Sapele is a species of the genus Entandrophragm, while true Mahogany belongs to the Swietenia genus. Sapele often has a richer, deeper reddish tone with a more pronounced interlocking grain, whereas Mahogany tends to have a softer, more uniform appearance. In terms of properties, Sapele is slightly harder and denser, offering high durability and stability, while Mahogany is well known for its exceptional workability and classic aesthetic. Usually, Mahogany is more expensive due to its status as a premium hardwood.
Sapele plywood is commonly used for furniture such as tables, cabinets, and shelving, as well as musical instruments, interior paneling, boat building, and decorative veneer applications. It features an attractive reddish-brown color that darkens with age, a fine and even grain with interlocking patterns, and excellent stability and strength. Its good workability with hand and machine tools, along with resistance to warping and twisting, makes it a versatile material for various projects.
Limited amount in stock. Please contact sales staff for large orders.
Prices may vary in store and online.
Additional Information
GRADES OF PLYWOOD:
The 1/4” sheet is an A4 grade featuring a well-finished “A” side, which is the highest quality surface with minimal knots, blemishes, or natural defects, making it ideal for visible applications. The “4” side usually has more natural characteristics such as slight imperfections, knots, or patches, but remains structurally sound and suitable for interior use. Overall, A4 plywood is a good one-side finish, offering a smooth, high-quality “A” side with a more natural, less refined backside.
The 3/4″ sheet is an A1 grade featuring a top “A” side with a premium, smooth, and defect-free surface, ideal for visible applications like high-quality furniture and cabinetry. The reverse side may have minor natural characteristics such as slight knots or patches but remains structurally sound. Overall, A1 is a top-grade plywood with a perfect finish on the face side and a good quality backside, suitable for projects demanding both appearance and durability.
