{"product_id":"african-blackwood","title":"African Blackwood","description":"\u003ch2\u003eAfrican Blackwood Pen Blanks – 5\" × ¾\" Square\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dalbergia melanoxylon\u003cbr\u003e\n   \u003cstrong\u003eCommon Names:\u003c\/strong\u003e African Blackwood, Mpingo, Grenadilla\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfrican Blackwood is native to the seasonally dry savannas and miombo woodlands of East and Southern Africa. It grows from Senegal in the west to Eritrea in the east, and south through Tanzania, Mozambique, and into parts of South Africa. The highest-quality turning stock today primarily comes from southeastern Tanzania and northern Mozambique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDescription \u0026amp; Characteristics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the densest and hardest woods in the world (Janka hardness ≈ 3,670 lbf), African Blackwood is prized by pen turners for its exceptional stability, tight grain, and stunning appearance. The heartwood ranges from deep chocolate brown to jet black, often with subtle purple or reddish streaks that create beautiful contrast under a high-gloss finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThese premium 5\" × ¾\" square pen blanks are pre-squared, kiln-dried, and ready for turning into elegant single-barrel or slimline pens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTurning Tips for African Blackwood\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExtreme Density:\u003c\/strong\u003e Turns slower than most woods but delivers crisp, clean cuts with excellent detail retention.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTools:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sharp carbide tools are highly recommended — they slice cleanly with minimal tear-out and stay sharp longer. High-speed steel also works well with light cuts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTechnique:\u003c\/strong\u003e Use moderate lathe speeds and light passes. Allow the blank to cool between grits when sanding to prevent heat buildup.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Takes CA glue, friction polish, shellac, and most pen finishes beautifully. Its natural oils help produce a deep, glass-like shine.\u003c\/li\u003e\n    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDust \u0026amp; Safety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Produces fine dust — always use strong dust extraction and wear a good respirator. Many turners enjoy its pleasant, slightly sweet aroma while turning.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePerfect for both experienced turners seeking heirloom-quality pens and ambitious beginners wanting a premium challenge. African Blackwood creates pens that feel substantial and look timeless.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReady to create something extraordinary?\u003c\/strong\u003e Add these African Blackwood pen blanks to your cart today!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Stadium Pen Blanks","offers":[{"title":"Pen Blank 5\" x 3\/4\" square","offer_id":50798338015465,"sku":"AfricanBlackWood5","price":12.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0351\/5256\/0259\/files\/AfricanBlackWood-3.jpg?v=1779833498","url":"https:\/\/stadiumpenblanks.com\/products\/african-blackwood","provider":"Stadium Pen Blanks","version":"1.0","type":"link"}