Sapele (Entandrophragma cylindricum) is a genuine substitute for Mahogany. It is widely used in Europe. We have procured an exceptional supply of highly figured Ribbon Sapele. Although a member of a different species, Sapele (a.k.a. sapelli or sapeli) has a similar reddish-orange color as mahogany. When quartersawn, Sapele boards exhibit a uniform ribbon pattern that shimmers in the light. In flatsawn boards, this squirrelly grain makes for wild swirls and surfaces that shift color depending on how the light strikes. ­This beautiful pattern occurs because Sapele’s grain is “rowed” or interlocked, which can make planing and shaping tricky. Despite some challenges, Sapele’s color and lively grain make this wood worth the effort it takes to tame. Common uses include furniture, boxes, turnings, musical instruments, and staircases.

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