Holly Wood

Holly is a rare hardwood prized for its bright, almost pure white color and very fine, uniform grain. It machines cleanly and takes detail exceptionally well, making it a favorite for inlay work, carving, and specialty woodworking where a crisp, high-contrast look is desired.
Compare (0/5)

Sorry, there are no products in this collection.

Continue shopping

Holly (Ilex opaca)

Pricing

Average

Hardness

1020

Janka

Distribution

Eastern US

Availability

Moderately Available

Appearance

Holly is prized for its pale white colour and almost complete lack of grain pattern. There are often knots present which reduces the usable size of boards. If not dried quickly enough after felling, a bluish grey fungal stain will develop.

Workability

The grain is interlocked which can make hand planning difficult but it can be worked with a finely tuned card scraper with ease. Be careful sanding Holly when there are dissimilar woods next to it because the sanding dust created can stain the white of the Holly.

Uses

Often used as an accent wood in stringing, banding, and inlays. The small size of the tree and knots make it difficult to make larger projects.

Additional Comments

Holly is best used in small pieces or thin slices due to the large shrinkage rate and seasonal movement. There is nothing more striking than Holly and Ebony featured together on inlays.

Have you made something with Holly?

Send us an email with your project for a chance to be featured.

Show us your project!

Why choose Holly Wood?

Frequently Asked Questions About Holly Wood