What is spalting?
To put it simply, spalting is the result of fungi beginning to decay wood. Through this process, we are able to witness the visible manifestation of the intelligence of fungi. Decay has a beautiful side– stunning, dramatic black zone lines and colors are the result of the fungi’s strategic decisions to isolate and protect its territory in a highly competitive environment. These zone lines, made up of melanin, are actually the walls of a three-dimensional cave-like space where the fungi can consume the lignin safe from the aggressions of other colonies or species.
Deep Greene Woodworks captures this fungal phenomenon and preserves it into artful veneers, fusing a physical and spiritual connection between man and nature. Ultimately, this art will accompany an inspiring, unique design - providing an aesthetically appealing contribution to its new indoor environment.
“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”
- Lao Tzu
Quality Spalting.
Much like the process of winemaking, the process of spalting is mostly perfected by Mother Nature, but still requires human intervention to expertly coax the final product into its fullest potential. Both processes use fungi as the agent of change and are a delicate balance of science and artistry, ultimately arriving at a full sensory experience - where you can appreciate the craftsmanship from the maker’s approach.
Deep Greene Woodworks practices great care throughout the entire process, because every step collectively contributes to the quality, aesthetics and overall success of the final veneer. For instance, the challenge of creating stunning, usable spalted maple material is to allow the decay to get an ample start at growth but then stopping the process precisely before it compromises the essential integrity of the surface. Extending the spalting beyond this pivotal point will sacrifice the quality and usability of the wood.
Quality spalting requires a deep understanding of the entire forest ecosystem, from tree selection, to the species of fungi, to the best conditions for inoculation. By choosing an expert on the entire process, you will ensure high quality, truly sustainable veneers for your project.
Inventory
DGW has extensive sequenced spalted maple veneers, cut, dried and ready to use. The average width of veneers is 18” and the length is ten feet. Keeping the veneers in sequence gives the designer the opportunity to have complete visual harmony throughout the entire project.
