Wood Species Guide
Pear
Pyrus communis
Also called: Pearwood, European Pear, Swiss Pear, Steamed Pear, Common Pear
What Pear looks like
Heartwood is a light pinkish brown, and steamed pear, the common European stock, is an even rosy tan. The sapwood is barely different in color.
Grain and texture
Straight grain with a very fine, even texture, among the smoothest of fruitwoods. Some boards show a soft mottled figure.
Working Pear: planing, cutting and gluing
Cuts, carves and turns beautifully and holds sharp detail, which is why it was used for drawing instruments and carved molds. It is hard but not difficult to work. Dry slowly to avoid warp.
Finishing Pear: oil, film finishes and epoxy
Takes stain, oil and film finishes evenly and polishes well. It was often dyed black as an ebony substitute. The fine grain seals quickly, so epoxy goes on without fuss.
Durability, stability and Florida humidity
Not durable outdoors and prone to insects. Very stable once dry, which is part of its appeal. In Florida, keep it indoors in air conditioning.
Shop notes from our Fort Myers shop
Swiss pear is a luthier's and carver's favorite, used for woodwind instruments, carved molds and fine furniture veneer. Boards are small and imported, so expect to pay for them. It is a great choice for spoons and small kitchen tools. We don't stock it, but ask us and we can often source it.
Common uses for Pear
Veneer, carving, woodwind instruments, drawing tools, inlay, fine furniture, utensils and turned objects.
Sustainability and CITES status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List. Most lumber comes from European orchards and managed forests.
Safety and toxicity
- No common reactions reported
Few reports. No reactions beyond ordinary wood dust irritation are known.
- In the shop
- Normal dust collection + mask when sanding
- Food contact
- Good choice for cutting boards, bowls and utensils
General information, not medical advice. See a doctor if you have a reaction.
Pear has no known reactions beyond the general irritation any wood dust can cause. Use dust collection and a mask when sanding.
Pear in stock now
Ask us. We can often source it.
We don't have Pear listed online right now, but new slabs and lumber come in all the time and not everything makes it to the website. Tell us what you're building and we'll check our racks and suppliers.
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