Western Red Cedar AAA Acoustic Guitar Top #001 - Bookmatched Western Red Cedar Guitar Top

Why Is Everyone Obsessed with Koa?

You may often hear people talk about “Koa,” but what exactly is it?

Hawaiian Koa is one of the most prized and iconic tonewoods in the world, valued for both its beauty and sound quality.

About Hawaiian Koa Wood

Hawaiian Koa (Acacia koa)
Hawaiian Koa is a special wood that has been treasured by the Hawaiian people for hundreds of years.

Historically, it was used to make:

• Outrigger canoes

• Paddles

• Boxes

• Furniture

Today, Hawaiian Koa is highly regarded worldwide as a premium material for musical instruments such as ukuleles and guitars.

It is known as an excellent tonewood, producing a rich, warm, and balanced tone with beautiful visual character.

About Scarcity

Hawaiian Koa has a very limited supply due to extensive logging in the past.
Large-scale reforestation efforts have only begun relatively recently.

As a result, high-quality Hawaiian Koa is becoming increasingly rare every year, especially highly figured material.

About Grading

Grading Information

Our grading system is based on over 50 years of experience handling and supplying tonewood.
It is our own internal quality standard.

In the general market, terms such as “4A” and “5A” are widely used, but grading criteria vary from company to company.

By understanding our grading system, you can be confident that each grade meets a consistent and reliable quality level.

Grade Criteria (Simple)

• 1A–2A: No curl to very weak curl

• 3A: Medium curl visible at certain angles

• 4A: Strong curl visible from any angle

• 5A: Master grade with deep, beautiful curl

• 5A+: Extremely rare, top-tier figure

Moisture Content & Drying

Our wood comes from naturally fallen trees or logs that have been air-dried in the forest for long periods.

Because of this, some pieces are ready to use, while others may require additional drying.

Hawaiian Koa is known as a wood that dries easily and is resistant to cracking and warping compared to many other tonewoods.

Easy Drying Method

• Place the wood so air can circulate freely

• Store in a well-ventilated area

• Use a fan to circulate air if needed

• Place a light weight on top to reduce movement

For material 20–30 mm thick, the recommended drying period is approximately 2 months in a well-ventilated environment.

Recommended Uses

• Ukulele making

• Knife and tool handles

• Pens, accessories, and inlays

• Box and small craft production

Measurement Notes

Because this is a natural wood product, the following dimensional variations may occur:

• Thickness: ±0.2 mm

• Length: ±5 cm

• Width: ±3 mm

The material is not a perfect rectangular prism, which is a natural characteristic of solid wood.
Please understand this before purchasing or processing.