Trade names: Sycamore, European Sycamore Origin: Central Europe, Atlantic coast to the Ukraine Range: Frequently found in Central Europe. In the past, most logs in the special “figured” form were bought in Great Britain. Since the markets of the East European States have been opened, the woodworking industry has been using the large occurrences for purchases there, i. e. of Sycamore plain as well as in its figured form. Black pin knots occur frequently; these are so hard they can damage the knife causing scratches. This is why such pin knots are drilled out during veneer production. Uses: High quality veneer for architectural and furniture purposes. Generally used for all wood products where particular importance is attached to the white color. Plain Sycamore is very popular for solid tables in pubs, also used for sports equipment and tool handles. Character: Both the sapwood and the heartwood are yellowish-white to white, while the Sycamore from the mountains is rather reddish-white. Therefore, the sapwood and the heartwood do not differ in color or hardly differ from one another. The veneer must be dried soon after slicing otherwise it will turn yellow under the influence of light and air. In dry weather, maple wood is very durable, especially when used indoors. Plain Sycamore can be worked well. The surfaces are easily polished, stained and colored. The wood can also be painted easily.