what would be a good substitute for gen. mahogany?

[jonnyfontaine]

What would be a good or as good as possible substitute for genuine, honduras mahogany? For this project the wood doesn't at all need to look like mahogany, just have similar features in it's make up, i.e. a wood that is similar in density, weight, workability, and be very stable. color isn't important but if there is a species that is readily available that's figured that would be a plus... so far i would guess that africian mahogany and sapele are pretty similar to honduras mahogany (which i may be totally wrong) but i'd like to know some others and which are closest in design... thanks

[shuneverno1]

Jonny- I've seen sapele that's very close but it depends alot on the color variety of each. I ordered a veneer sheet of sapele and I thought they'd made a mistake when they sent it because of its light tan color, all the sapele I had at the time was darker brown. So I took the sample to woodcraft and was able to fine both mahogany and sapele that matched almost perfectly. Check out the desk below:


The top is the sapele veneer over mdf and the sides are wrapped in mahogony. You can see there is very little color variation. As far as figure goes ribbon stripe (what's pictured) is fairly common and easy to find but if you've got the big bucks you can go for quilted or even pomelle if you can find it. Hope this helps---- Mike