English yew wood is a beautiful and unique species of wood that is growing in popularity for use in woodworking, musical instruments, and other specialty projects However, sourcing quality boards can be a challenge, especially here in the US In this article, I’ll discuss what makes english yew wood special, where to find it for sale, and what to look for when buying boards.
What is English Yew Wood?
English yew (Taxus baccata) is a softwood species native to England, Ireland and parts of Europe The heartwood ranges in color from light brown to reddish brown, often with darker streaks. English yew is best known for its distinctive “pippy” figure that occurs when small knots form in the wood. This gives it an eye-catching appearance.
In addition to its looks, english yew has acoustic properties that make it excellent for musical instruments like guitars. It’s also strong and stable enough for furniture or turned objects. Historically, it was the preferred wood for making longbows.
Why Use English Yew Wood?
There are a few key reasons why woodworkers seek out english yew boards:
- Attractive figure – the small knots and color variations create visual interest
- Tonal qualities – projects an excellent sound with musical instruments
- Workability – easy to machine and turn on a lathe
- Durability – resists rotting and holds up well outdoors
While it’s only moderately hard, english yew takes an excellent polish and finish. The end result is a beautiful conversation piece for your home. It’s especially popular for acoustic guitars, fine furniture, woodturning, and small decorative objects.
Where to Buy English Yew Wood
English yew can be difficult to find, especially in wide boards. There are a limited number of specialty suppliers with inventory in North America. Here are two of the best options I’ve found for buying english yew lumber:
Exotic Hardwoods UK
This UK-based company sells english yew online and ships worldwide. They stock boards in a range of dimensions suitable for guitars and other small projects. Figured boards with nice pippy pattern are available.
Hearne Hardwoods
Pennsylvania-based Hearne Hardwoods has one of the largest inventories of exotic lumbers in the US. They stock select figured boards of english yew. Call ahead for current availability.
When buying from either supplier, carefully check photos of the actual boards you’ll receive. Prices are quite high ($50+ per board foot), so be picky and make sure the figure meets your expectations before purchasing.
What to Look For When Buying English Yew
Once you find a supplier, keep the following tips in mind when selecting your boards:
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Color – Look for a nice reddish brown heartwood color. Pale boards won’t have the same visual impact.
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Pippy figure – Small brown knots create the distinctive pipy pattern. Prioritize boards with frequent knots and color variations.
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Grain orientation – For strength, make sure boards have vertical grain orientation rather than flat or wild grain.
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Moisture content – Ensure the wood is fully dried to 6-8% moisture content to prevent future warping or checking.
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Minimal defects – Avoid boards with large cracks, open knots, wane, fungal staining or other defects. Sound tight knots are acceptable.
Using English Yew Wood in Your Projects
The high cost of english yew lumber lends itself to small projects that highlight the wood’s exceptional beauty. Some specific uses where it really shines include:
- Acoustic guitar backs/sides – amplifies sound with excellent tone
- Turned bowls and vases – eye-catching natural pattern
- Small boxes or jewelry – pairs nicely with brass or gold accents
- Rifle stocks and knife handles – durable and weather resistant
- Furniture accents – striking visual impact when strategically placed
With proper selection and woodworking technique, english yew can transform into a stunning showpiece wood. It’s the perfect species when you want a conversational focal point that displays the forest’s natural artistry.
Characteristics of Pacific Yew
| Origin of Wood Type | Pacific Northwest of North America |
| Botanical Name | Taxus brevifolia |
| Specific Gravity | 0.67 |
| Avg. Weight Per BF | 3.5 lb/ bf |
| Color Range | Brown – Red- Gold |
| Rarity / Availability | Not Readily Available |
| Typical Avg. Width | 3″ to 12″ |
| Typical Avg. Length | 6′ to 10′, sometimes larger available |
| Avg. Waste Factor | 1 |
| Wood Uses | Furniture, Architectural Millwork, Outdoor Uses, Wood Turning, Wood Carving, Fences, Posts, Veneer, Cabinetry, Canoe Paddles, Archery Supplies and more |
| Lumber Grades | Flitch |
| Other Trade Names | Pacific Yew or Western Yew |
***Call for availability – 1.610.932.7400***
Yew wood for sale
FAQ
What are the disadvantages of yew wood?
Is yew wood good for anything?
Is yew wood rare?
What is special about yew wood?
What is English yew tree?
English Yew Tree may be the most elegant softwood. Displaying an array of colors from amber to pink, Yew Tree’s tones continue to develop as they age, getting richer and richer. Yew Tree at its best, can be found with pip or eye. Call for availability: 1.610.932.7400 / 1.888.814.0007
What are the different types of yew trees?
For gardeners, the important types of Yew Tree are the English Yew ( taxus baccata ), the Japanese Yew ( taxus cuspidata ), and the Hybrid Yew ( taxus x media. To the ordinary eye their foliage is identical. This Yew Tree is widely grown in Europe, but in America it is only hardy in zones 6, 7, and 8.
Are yew trees evergreen?
In colder states, forms of the Japanese Yew or Hybrid Yew should be in your garden, and in the hottest areas, choose Plum Yew instead. Wherever you live you can enjoy the shade-tolerant evergreen foliage of the Yew Tree – just choose wisely. Shop our wide selection of Yew trees available online 24/7.
Are yew trees conifers?
Although it is a conifer, the Yew Tree does not have the typical cones seen on other conifers. Instead there are separate male and female trees. Male trees produce pollen in spring and female tree often have red berries in fall and into winter.