The timber I use is called 'Jelutong'. It comes from trees that produced latex rubber. It is technically a hard wood yet its low density and straight grain have made it a favorite of pattern makers. It was once overharvested, but today it is grown as a renewable source or timber.
The timber I use is imported into Australia and is kiln dried. It contains about 12% moisture on average and contains no sap.
It comes in raw plank lengths that I cut to size and glue into raw blocks before being turned into artworks...I mean, hat blocks.
The real benefit other than being easier to carve than harder woods is that it pins very easily. Pins can be pushed in by thumb, no little hammer needed. The downside is that too many pins on thin edges can cause the edge to break away, but with due care this will not happen.
darryll
