Willow Wood

[Sambini]

I have to cut down a willow tree. Can the wood be used for anything in the ship model?

[reklein]

Kinda coarse grained for model work. Best used for cricket bats.;)

[Bob Cleek]

And if it gets wet, it's liable to sprout on you! LOL

[Mike Y]

Used some willow for non-modelling work, doubt it is suitable. Apart from being soft, it is rather sensible to humidity - will deform and then shrink more than regular modelling woods.

though there are many kinds of willows, not sure if mine was same as yours  The regional specifics may vary.

Edited August 29, 2018 by Mike Y

[vaddoc]

According to Wood Database, it does not look a very good alternative.

 

"With its low density and interlocked grain, willow has very poor machining characteristics, frequently resulting in fuzzy surfaces or tearout. Willow also tends to develop numerous drying defects and can be difficult to season. Glues and finishes well. Responds moderately well to steam bending."