Definition: Wood burls are large, rounded outgrowths (see picture of a wood burl at right) on the trunk or branch of a tree. It is thought that irritants such as bacteria are the cause of wood burls. A curiosity of nature, they are often used decoratively as a veneer in woodcraft. Wood burls are sometimes hollowed out and turned into artistic bowls.
Common Misspellings: wood bur, wood burr, wooden burl
Examples:
The gift shops in Jackson Hole, Wyoming are filled with bowls made from wood burls, carefully sanded and glazed.
