WoodSwatch · The Wood Ledger
Norway Spruce
Picea abies
Also known as: European Spruce, Common Spruce, Christmas Tree
Technical Spec Sheet
2026-07-14
Reference grain swatch
- Janka Hardness
- 380 lbf (1,690 N)
- Avg. Dried Weight
- 450 kg/m³ (28 lb/ft³)
- Specific Gravity
- 0.43
- Type
- Softwood
- Grain
- Usually straight, sometimes with spiral grain
- Texture
- Fine and even
- Durability
- Non-durable to moderately durable; susceptible to decay without treatment
- Region
- Europe
- Sustainability
- Sustainable — Sustainable - widely planted and harvested in Europe
Overview
Norway Spruce is one of the most important commercial softwoods in Europe, valued for its resonant properties in musical instrument soundboards and its versatility in construction. It is the traditional choice for violin and piano soundboards due to its excellent acoustic qualities.
Heartwood is cream to pale yellowish-white, sometimes with reddish or golden streaks. Sapwood is similar. Density averages 450 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 380 lbf. Fine, even texture with usually straight grain. Low shrinkage.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Low - soft wood
Gluing
Excellent gluing properties
Finishing
Good - takes stain and finish well
Steam Bending
Good steam bending when clear-grained
Scent
Mild, pleasant spruce aroma when worked
Assessment
Strengths
- Lightweight
- Resonant for soundboards
- Easy to work
- Widely available
Weaknesses
- Low durability
- Knotty
- Can be brittle
Common Uses
Soundboards · Construction · Pulp · Christmas trees · Veneer · Plywood