Upstate New York Red Curly Maple Shot Glass

Curly Maple Shot Glass — Handcrafted, Stabilized & Finished Naturally

Dimensions: ~2‑3/4 inches tall × 1‑3/4 inches wide

Hand‑turned from stabilized Curly Maple (Acer spp.), this shot glass showcases one of the most visually captivating grain patterns found in hardwoods. Curly Maple is not a separate species but a rare figure that occurs in several maple varieties, most commonly Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum). The distinctive “curl” is created when the wood fibers grow in irregular, undulating waves rather than straight lines, producing a shimmering, rippled effect that seems to shift as light moves across the surface. This phenomenon, often called fiddleback maple, has been prized for centuries in fine furniture, cabinetry, and musical instruments such as violins and guitars.

The vessel reveals those qualities beautifully, with tight, flowing ripples that catch and reflect light, giving the surface a three‑dimensional appearance. Stabilization enhances the wood’s durability, preventing humidity‑related warping or cracking while preserving its natural figure. Compact and balanced at just under three inches tall, it sits comfortably in the hand while offering a tactile connection to the wood’s natural elegance. Each piece is unique, with its own rhythm of curls and tonal variations, ensuring no two glasses are ever alike.

Finished with polymerized walnut oil, beeswax, and carnauba wax, the shot glass gleams with a soft luster while being food‑safe and protective. Over time, the finish will season with use, deepening the warmth of the maple and enhancing its natural figure. A simple vessel with extraordinary character, this stabilized Curly Maple shot glass embodies both functionality and artistry—an everyday object elevated by the rare beauty of its grain.