Description

Zebrano (Microberlinia brazzavillensis)

Instantly recognisable and always dramatic, Zebrano (also known as Zebrawood) is a spectacular decorative timber. It features a creamy, pale gold heartwood with clearly defined, parallel streaks of dark brown to almost black. This bold, striped pattern gives the timber its common name and ensures that any project made from it will be a striking conversation piece.

Perfect for Box Making:

The high-contrast stripes of Zebrano make it an exceptional choice for visually stunning boxes. Its bold pattern works brilliantly on its own or can be used to create eye-catching feature panels, lids, or decorative “book-matched” effects. The 10mm thickness is ideal for:

Bold, contemporary jewellery and keepsake boxes
Visually striking humidors or display cases
Feature lids that contrast with plainer timbers like Rock Maple or even Wenge
Any project where the wood itself is the main feature

Working Properties:

Zebrano has a coarse texture and a characteristically interlocked grain, which requires some care to achieve the best results.

Workability: Can be challenging. The interlocking grain has a tendency to tear out during planing and machining. Using very sharp tools, shallow cutting depths, and a careful approach is essential. It is known to blunt tools faster than other hardwoods.
Finishing: Sands well, but a grain filler is often recommended to achieve a perfectly smooth, glass-like surface. It accepts oils and lacquers beautifully, which makes the dark stripes pop with incredible depth.
Gluing: Glues well, creating strong and reliable bonds.
Aroma: Has a distinct, and for some, unpleasant odour when being worked, which dissipates once finished.

Specifications:

Common Names: Zebrano, Zebrawood
Botanical Name: Microberlinia brazzavillensis
Origin: Central Africa (primarily Cameroon and Gabon)
Appearance: A pale golden-yellow wood with prominent, narrow streaks of dark brown or black, creating a dramatic striped effect.

We have more Zebrano sizes available here.

A Note on Our Wood Products

Please remember that the photos you see are indicative only. As a beautiful, natural material, wood inherently varies in grain, color, and figure. While we meticulously select outstanding pieces to send your way, each item will possess its own unique charm. We believe these natural variations are part of what makes our wood products so special and truly one-of-a-kind.

Our Commitment to Quality

At Trend Timbers, we are committed to providing woodworkers with the highest quality materials. All our timber is sourced from sustainable, ecologically responsible forests and is kiln-dried to meet stringent Australian standards. Our hand-selected range includes premium species suitable for everyone, from novice enthusiasts to seasoned artisans.

Project Advice & Support

For projects requiring dimensions larger than our listed sizes or you require further information about a particular species, including custom sizing or current availability, our knowledgeable staff is here to assist. Please do not hesitate to contact us directly for expert advice.

Visit Our Showroom

In addition to our online store, Trend Timbers offers an even wider selection of beautiful species and woodcraft supplies, including turning and carving blanks. We warmly invite you to visit our showroom to experience our full range firsthand and see the unique character of our timbers up close. We are always inspired to see where our timber ends up, so feel free to share your finished projects with us when you visit.