Variation in Basswood Hardness

[buzz sawyer]

I've been a member of our local woodcarving group for over 35 years, doing various types of carving primarily in Basswood but also Cherry, Walnut, and Catalpa. I recently obtained a piece of Basswood from our club supply and found it to considerably denser and harder than a piece from a local a Woodcraft store or some air-dried Basswood I already had. I'm sure both examples are Basswood. Just wondered what might account for the difference in hardness - maybe kiln-dried vs air-dried? Has anyone experienced this?

 

[buzz sawyer]

Never mind, found the answer. Kiln drying can harden the outer 1/4" or so. That explains my problem.

 

[Bubster]

Any tree growing on the north side of a mountain or hill will also be harder . Slower growth, better quality as well.