Fiddleback is a curly figure pattern in lumber used for stringed instruments—not a separate wood species. It is especially associated with quarter-sawn maple for violin-family instruments, but the term can also be used more broadly for figured wood from other species.
What does “fiddleback” mean?
WOOD Magazine Staff describes fiddleback as “a figure pattern specific to musical instrument builders, in particular luthiers.” In practical terms, the name refers to the visible figure in the wood, rather than a botanical species or a standardized grade. The term is tied to instrument-making because luthiers select and use figured lumber for stringed instruments. Read the WOOD Magazine explanation.
Is fiddleback always maple?
No. WOOD Magazine’s March 28, 2017 article describes quarter-sawn European maple—also called English sycamore or European sycamore—as traditional material for classical instruments such as violins, cellos, and upright basses. It also notes a broader North American use of “fiddleback” for curly, quarter-sawn lumber of other species used in stringed instruments, giving ovangkol as an example. The name alone therefore does not identify the species; check the wood description. WOOD Magazine, “Figuring Out Figure: Fiddleback”.
How is fiddleback figure related to the cut?
The article associates fiddleback with curly quarter-sawn sets. Quarter-sawn describes the orientation of the lumber’s cut, while curly describes the visible figure; fiddleback is the instrument-making term used for that figured material. WOOD Magazine says the backs and sides of classical instruments are traditionally made from billets hand-rived with a froe and characterizes that process as producing stress-free, perfectly quartered lumber. That is the article’s description of the traditional method, not a universal requirement for every wood sold as fiddleback.
#1 Best Overall
- Billet sizes range from 7" – 11"wide, 22-28" long and 9/4 – 10/4 thick
- S2S
- Kiln dried
- Get hands on this Christmas! Woodcraft is proud to be America’s leading supplier of high-quality woodworking hand tools, power tools, domestic and exotic wood, shop supplies, project plans and kits, plus so much more! Our family of brands include Highpoint professional-grade fasteners and hardware, and precision-engineered Pinnacle tools. Our products make the perfect holiday gift for anyone that loves woodworking.
Figured wood versus student-model lumber
WOOD Magazine contrasts non-figured, less expensive lumber used in student-model instruments with curly quarter-sawn sets associated with fiddleback. The source does not quantify the price difference or establish that one figure produces better sound, durability, or playability. Treat figure as a description of appearance and material selection, not a performance ranking.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to check when identifying or buying it
“Fiddleback” by itself is not enough to establish what a piece of wood is or how it was cut. For instrument wood, confirm the details that affect identification and suitability:
Rank #2
- Billet sizes range from 6"-10" wide, 22" long and 1-1/4" thick
- S2S
- Kiln-dried
- Get hands on this Christmas! Woodcraft is proud to be America’s leading supplier of high-quality woodworking hand tools, power tools, domestic and exotic wood, shop supplies, project plans and kits, plus so much more! Our family of brands include Highpoint professional-grade fasteners and hardware, and precision-engineered Pinnacle tools. Our products make the perfect holiday gift for anyone that loves woodworking.
- Species: Determine whether the listing is for maple, ovangkol, or another wood.
- Figure: Look for a clear description or images showing the curly pattern.
- Cut: Check whether the seller specifies quarter-sawn orientation.
- Use and dimensions: Confirm that the piece is intended and sized for the instrument component you need, such as a back or side.
- Price and grading: Ask what the grade means and what is included; the 2017 article does not provide current prices or a grading standard.
The source does not establish species-specific performance, current supplier inventory, or marketplace availability. Its discussion is explanatory rather than a market survey, and it reports no pricing statistics.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Beautiful Grain
- Kiln dried
- Surfaced hit or miss
Rank #4
- Common Name(s): Curly maple, fiddleback maple, tiger maple, flamed maple, rippled maple
- Scientific Name: Acer spp
- Dried: Kiln Dried, Moister Content: 6% To 8%
- Package: 5 Pieces Combo Pack
- Perfect For: 3/4 lumber boards are used in furniture making, cabinetry, flooring, and craft projects. DIY, Cutting board blocks are ideal for culinary use. They offer versatility, durability, and smooth surfaces for various woodworking applications.
Rank #3
- Beautiful Grain
- Two sides sanded to 3/4" thickness
- Kiln dried
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
