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"Mesquite (scientific name: Prosopis) wood
is conceivably the most dimensionally stable of all woods in having equal radial and tangential shrinkage values of only 2%-3%
and in having total volumetric shrinkage values of 4%-5%. Other fine woods such as oak, cherry, walnut, teak, mahogany and
Indian rosewood have volumetric shrinkage values in the range of 8%-15%. The result of the low shrinkage value is that furniture
made from mesquite will have less expansion and contraction when ambient humidity levels change, such as from summer to
winter in northern regions. Thus furniture will not crack and drawers will not stick with changing humidity levels." (P. Felker,
et al, Grading mesquite lumber, Texas A&M- Kingsville 1994).
The species of Texas woods that have especially good qualities for flooring
and furniture; Mesquite, Pecan, Dense Loblolly pine, Old Heart Longleaf Pine, Fiddleback Sycamore, Aromatic Red Cedar, Bois
D'Arc, Walnut, and Cypress.
Mesquite can vary from a rich, red-brown color to a medium brown and gold and usually becomes
darker and more mysterious as it ages. Mesquite lumber differs from maple, walnut, and other varieties that generally have
no defects and can be purchased in large sizes. Mesquite lumber is almost always shorter in length (six feet and under) and
narrower in width (six to eight inches), though occasionally oversize pieces can be found. The classic mesquite log contains
variations and unique features such as bark pockets, swirling grain, ring shake, checks, bug blemishes, ingrown bark, dark
mineral streaks, buds, splits, resin pockets, and minor defects. All of these "defects", especially found in larger logs,
add to the character of custom furniture created from mesquite.
Texans have some of the most exciting and extraordinary people and some of the most unique
and beautiful woods found anywhere in the world. tough; resilient; full of obvious character; resourceful; handsome.
It has been shaped by the same droughts, wet years, cold snaps and extended heat waves that most Texans have weathered. We
particularly use woods that would otherwise would be destroyed if we did not 'rescue' them and turn them into beautiful lumber,
furniture and heirlooms.
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