Searching For Need a reliable source for KOA wood from Hawaii

echavez123

MGF, Master Grumble Framer
Joined
Jan 24, 2008
Posts
838
Loc
Las Vegas, NV
I have tried searching the internet for framers/mfgr's who provide Koa wood frames or moulding. I called one company 3 times, and last message I got was they were too busy and would get back to me. Another company never returns phone calls. Obviously, I am dealing with amateurs. Does any one have a reliable source for Koa wood moulding ? I have four damaged frames which need to be replaced asap.

Pls advise - Ernesto
 
The only time I have ordered Koa (years ago) was through Martin & McArthur, out of Hawaii. However, checking their website, it shows only a couple ready mades now. Might want to give them a call to see if they have a source they can hook you up with.
 
Foster Planing Mill in L.A. used to carry it, not sure if they can still get it, but they might know where you can.
 
Jayeness Moulding carries it. Their Spokane number is (800)-509-2324.
They also have a Seattle location, but I'm sitting at home in my comfy
chair, so am just writing the one I know from memory.
 
Thank you for info to Shayla, NikFriz, Scallywag and CB Art & Frame for info provided. Here is what I found:

1) Martin & McArthur does not carry moulding. They work with artists who do specialty work for them.
2) Jayeness Moulding - has a very limited supply of Koa moulding, and the moulding looks like Koa laminate.
3) Direct Moulding - has a decent selection of Koa laminate only.
4) Foster Plannin Mill - waiting for a return call, again.

My conclusion is there is a very limited source for solid Koa wood. My current project calls for solid Koa. This is for an insurance claim, and so cost is not an issue. Who knows, maybe it is illegal to market solid Koa? Maybe I will just have to grow a few trees myself. :nuts:
 
Thank you for info to Shayla, NikFriz, Scallywag and CB Art & Frame for info provided. Here is what I found:

1) Martin & McArthur does not carry moulding. They work with artists who do specialty work for them.
2) Jayeness Moulding - has a very limited supply of Koa moulding, and the moulding looks like Koa laminate.
3) Direct Moulding - has a decent selection of Koa laminate only.
4) Foster Plannin Mill - waiting for a return call, again.

My conclusion is there is a very limited source for solid Koa wood. My current project calls for solid Koa. This is for an insurance claim, and so cost is not an issue. Who knows, maybe it is illegal to market solid Koa? Maybe I will just have to grow a few trees myself. :nuts:

Koa is a beautiful wood, but it can be hard to find! It is also very expensive which is why most places opt for laminating instead of solid wood.

If you can't get what you need from the sources you have already tried, I might be able to help you. While we do not stock any Koa mouldigns, I do have a source for the raw material and we can run a custom profile for you. We can match any profile.

Feel free to call me at 860-389-8871 or email me if you would like me to run a quote for you.
 
I have a small amount of Koa that was given to me by a woodworker I visited on Kauai (I sent him some premium Bird's Eye in return). I've been holding on to it just because, but I have no particular attachment to it. If it's enough to do your frame I'd be willing to give it up. Let me know if you're interested.
 
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