lindehout

Lindehout, also called limewood or lindenwood, is the timber obtained from trees in the genus Tilia. In Dutch usage, lindehout typically refers to wood from lime trees such as Tilia cordata (small-leaved lime) and Tilia platyphylla (large-leaved lime). In North America, a closely related timber is commonly marketed as basswood (Tilia americana). Lindehout is valued in crafts and printing for its gentle workability.

Physically, lindehout is lightweight and soft, with a fine, uniform grain and a pale creamy color. It machines cleanly with hand and power tools, holds intricate detail well, and finishes smoothly, taking stains and paints evenly. It has good dimensional stability but relatively low natural durability, so it is not recommended for outdoor use without protection.

Common uses include woodcarving and the production of relief printing blocks due to its softness and ability to retain fine detail. It is also used in model making, hobby turning, and various interior joinery applications where a smooth, light-colored wood is desirable. In regions where basswood is the standard name, similar applications are common.

Availability and distribution vary by region. In Europe, lindehout is a familiar timber from several Tilia species and remains a staple in crafts and carving. In North America, basswood serves a comparable role and is widely used by woodworkers for carving blocks and light-duty applications.