Unlike any other woodworking material, a beautiful Burl Wood Veneer can transform a simple project into something truly special. Combining intricate patterns with unmistakable natural elegance, burl veneers are among the most prized options in woodworking. Especially for making furniture, architectural panels, and other high-profile statement pieces.

What is Burl Wood?

Burl wood is the fascinating result when normal wood develops an unusually deformed, swirling grain pattern that’s anything but ordinary or expected in the species. How this occurs isn’t exactly known, but some theorize that burl wood forms when a tree experiences unusual growth due to stress, injury, or disease.

What we do know is that the physical wood is just as healthy and sound as regular grain patterns of the same species. The only exception being the burl wood’s exceptional appearance. In fact, instead of being considered a flaw, the unique burl patterns created in the wood turn it into a natural work of art. With every piece truly one-of-a-kind — not just from species-to-species, but also tree-to-tree within the same species, and between cuts from the same tree.

Because every burl is so distinct, the grain style makes every piece one of the most sought-after materials for woodworking and design — adding unique beauty, exclusivity, and rareness to your project. 

Why Choose Burl Wood Veneer?

“Showcasing nature’s artistry.” In a phrase, that’s exactly what Burl Wood Veneer does. That’s what it adds to your projects. A mesmerizing blend of swirling patterns, organic shapes, and exotic colors, every example of burl wood defies description.

You truly have to see each piece of burl to believe it. Or get your head wrapped around how it came into being — because every piece of burl veneer has a story behind its incredible patterns that can never be replicated anywhere else in nature at any other moment in time.

That’s what makes Burl Wood Veneer such a special choice — it’s rare, it’s unique, it adds a level of unrepeatable sophistication and beauty to any project.

The Eye Appeal of Burl Patterns

Incredibly intricate and varied, the natural patterns in burl wood often look like abstract art — a flowing blend of pins, swirls, loops, and waves that not only catch the eye but hold it for satisfyingly pleasant moments that just seem to go on and on and on ….

Not only does burl wood only occur in rare, unpredictable circumstance, it’s often difficult to find — adding an even greater sense of exclusivity to your work. So if you’re planning to create a uniquely beautiful, conversation-starting piece, Burl Wood Veneer is the perfect choice for your project.

At GL Veneer, we offer three grades of Burl Wood Veneer — Regular, Premium, and Architectural. With the greatest distinction between them being the concentration of “pin” (the small, eye-like features) and the overall symmetry of the burl patterns.

• Regular Grade: Featuring more swirls and less pin, these burls deliver a more organic, less symmetrical look.

• Premium Grade: Presenting a bit more pin and symmetry, though not perfect, these burls offer a balanced, yet natural appearance.

• Architectural Grade: Our top grade – often called “Jewelry Box” grade – these burls feature perfect pin, swirls, and symmetry, making them the most refined, flawless options.

While every grade of GL Veneer’s burl offers a variety of uniquely gorgeous options, each gives you a different spin along the “organic vs. symmetrical” spectrum. The design look and aesthetic you’re aiming for will guide you to the more appropriate grade for your project. 

10 Burl Wood Veneer Sheets that Stand Out

At GL Veneer, we offer 18 different species and cuts of Burl Wood Veneer. While we love them all, ten of these special veneer options truly stand out to form our Top 10 list of Burl Wood Veneers:

1. Walnut Burl

A classic burl choice known for its timeless elegance and rich tones, Walnut Burl’s grain is full of variation, with myriad clusters and swirls creating a beautifully complex pattern. But it’s the warmth and sophisticated look that Walnut Burl Veneer adds to any piece to make it our #1 favorite Burl Wood Veneer. And possibly yours too. 

2. Redwood Burl (aka, “Vavona”)

Deep within California’s majestic Redwood forests lies one of the rarest burl’s on earth — “Vavona” Burl. Formed in the base and buried roots of some giant Redwood trees, the burl that forms is called “Vavona.” And it produces an exotic figure that’s nothing short of mesmerizing — with a rich, warm color that’s all but impossible to find in any other species. Whether you call it “Redwood Burl” or “Vavona,” you’re describing an unequaled treasure for those who desire something as unique as it is luxurious.

3. Mappa Burl

The most powerful statement we can make about Mappa Burl is that it makes a powerful design statement. Overall, one of the lightest colored burl species, Mappa Burl features a wide-ranging palette — from browns and yellows to reds and blacks. All swirling together, these amazing hues create striking patterns of tight clusters and high contrast that instantly catch the eye. Without question, Mappa Burl is a standout choice for bold, elegant designs.

4. Maple Burl

One-of-a-kind grain patterns and natural color variations define the unmatchable beauty of Maple Burl. The exotic burl version of the more familiar domestic Maple, this light-toned Burl Wood Veneer features gracefully intricate patterns that add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any design. Which makes Maple Burl an elite choice for projects requiring a refined, yet distinctive look.

5. Madrone Burl

Presenting a unique blend of soft, warm tones and intricate patterns, the burl of Madrone creates something of a visual paradox — an exciting yet soothing look. Constantly drawing the eye, it evokes an unexpected calming effect in your project. Smooth and polished, Madrone Burl Wood Veneer is a naturally beautiful material that’s perfect for any inviting, elegant design.

6. Imbuia Burl

An exotic, South American wood, Imbuia Burl is infused with rich, dark colors and complex patterns. Full of depth and character, Imbuia Burl veneer makes a fantastic choice for adding a dramatic touch to any project — not to mention an aura of luxury. 

7. Elm Burl (aka “Carpathian Elm”)

Derived from the English Elm species, Elm Burl or “Carpathian Elm” as it’s also known, grows throughout Western Europe — as far east as the Carpathian Mountains. A striking burl veneer choice with eye-catching grain patterns, it’s renowned for fantastic appeal. Displaying bold, captivating patterns Elm/Carpathian Burl makes an elite choice for custom projects.

8. Chestnut Burl

A beautiful wood veneer option, Chestnut Burl exhibits warm, earthy tones and intricate grain patterns. A classic Burl Wood Veneer with a timeless feel, Chestnut Burl veneer makes an elite choice for traditional or rustic designs.

9. Karelian Birch Burl

One of the most uniquely beautiful burls in the world, Karelian Birch is sometimes overlooked and, oddly, underappreciated. Possibly because the trees only grow in the Karelian region between Finland and Russia, where the unique soil and landscape of the region produce a stunning, flame-like figure in the tree’s grain.

The burl features a rippled texture with dark streaks and shiny curls that make it truly special — so much so that Carl Fabergé used Karelian Birch Burl in one of the famous eggs he made for the Russian Tsar in 1917. All the inspiration any woodworker needs to consider this burl veneer for an upcoming project. 

10. Olive Ash Burl

The epitome of how truly unique burl wood can be, each veneer sheet of Olive Ash Burl can look entirely different — even from the same tree. Offering a rich variety of grains, knots, and textures, it creates patterns that often resemble abstract art. More than a beautiful natural material, Olive Ash Burl might be the spark of inspiration you need to elevate your creativity and interpretive skills for upcoming projects.

How to Use Burl Wood Veneer

Incredibly versatile, Burl Wood Veneer is perfect for adding an elegant touch to interior design work, furniture making, cabinetry, and specialty items. To make the most of its natural beauty, follow these tips for working with Burl Wood Veneer:

• Handle with Care: Burl veneer can be delicate, so take your time when cutting and handling it.

• Finishing Touches: A clear finish can help enhance the natural patterns and colors of the burl, making it even more striking.

• Creative Applications: Use burl veneer to create focal points in your designs, such as accent panels, tabletops, or feature walls.

Why Choose GL Veneer for Burl Wood Veneer?

At GL Veneer, we’re committed to sourcing and producing the highest quality Burl Wood Veneer. With one caveat — we put great emphasis on “sustainability.”

We follow the strictest practices to ensure our wood is always responsibly sourced. So, not only can you trust that you’re getting the best material for your projects, but you can also rest easy knowing it was sourced safely and responsibly — taking the forests best interest to heart. 

If you’re looking for something truly unique and beautiful, Burl Wood Veneer from GL Veneer is the perfect choice. Explore our collection and find the perfect burl veneer for your next project.