1/2" Wood Ball

1/2" Round Maple Wood Ball: 1/2 Inch Diameter Craft Component

A solid maple hardwood sphere with a diameter of 1/2" (12.7 mm), this wood ball is designed for crafting and building projects that require natural, uniform, and sturdy wooden components. Its smooth, tumble-sanded surface and consistent size make it an excellent choice for creative applications that demand durability and ease of finishing.

Key Features

• Smooth tumble-sanded surface reduces prep time, providing a nearly ready-to-finish texture perfect for painting, staining, or sealing.
• Consistent 1/2" diameter with ±0.01" tolerance ensures uniformity, ideal for use in projects with multiple parts requiring a precise fit or appearance.
• Made from solid maple hardwood (Janka hardness approx. 1450 lbf), offering strong structural integrity and moderate to high machinability for drilling or shaping.
• Seamless, natural grain randomized by its spherical form, which enhances the component’s clean and minimalist look.
• High paint and coating compatibility with medium absorption rate allows for even finishing results.
• Low risk of splinters and high smoothness rating increases user safety and comfort in handling.
• Pack sizes available: 10, 100, 500, up to 25,000 units, supporting both small craft kits and bulk manufacturing needs.

Specifications

• Diameter: 1/2" (12.7 mm, approx. 1/2")
• Radius: 1/4" (6.35 mm)
• Circumference: ~1.57" (40 mm)
• Volume: ~0.06545 in³ (1.07 cm³)
• Surface Area: ~0.785 in² (5.07 cm²)
• Weight (10 pcs): 0.02 lbs (0.91 g total)
• Material: Solid Maple Hardwood (natural finish)
• Grain: Randomized due to spherical shape
• Surface Finish: Tumble-sanded, unfinished, light sanding
• Diameter Tolerance: ± 0.01"
• Roundness Variation: ± 0.01"
• Finish Absorption: Medium
• Drillability: Good, suitable for adding holes or axles
• Structural Integrity: Strong with no seams or weak points
• Storage: Keep dry and indoors
• Shelf Life: Indefinite when unfinished
• Color: Natural maple wood tone

Suggested Uses

• Professional applications: Furniture accents such as knobs and decorative wooden spheres; model making requiring consistent small wooden balls; mechanical pivots or bearings in handmade wooden toys.
• Educational and Montessori tools: Fine motor skill manipulatives, spatial reasoning aids, sorting and counting objects.
• DIY and craft projects: Paintable ornaments, game pieces, robot parts, rolling toy components, and natural décor elements.
• Classroom and Bulk Use: Suitable for teacher resource kits, bulk orders for craft kit companies, and toy manufacturers needing reliable supply and consistent quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Will this wood ball fit a 1/2" hole for axles or dowels?
  Yes, the diameter tolerance of ±0.01" ensures it will fit snugly in a 1/2" hole for most woodworking and craft projects requiring standard sizing.
• Is the wood sanded and ready for painting or finishing?
  The balls come tumble-sanded with a high smoothness rating, minimizing prep work and providing a surface that readily accepts paint, stain, or sealant.
• Can these balls be drilled for custom applications?
  Yes, maple wood offers good drillability, allowing holes or axles to be added without risk of splitting.
• Are these wood balls consistent in size and shape for multi-piece projects?
  Absolutely. The diameter and roundness variation is tightly controlled at ±0.01", ensuring uniform appearance and fit.
• Can I order these in bulk for classroom or production use?
  Craftparts offers multiple pack sizes ranging from 10 to 25,000 units to support both hobbyist and commercial project needs.
• How should I store unfinished wood balls?
  Store in a dry indoor environment to maintain dimensional stability and prevent warping.
• Is there any splinter risk when handling these wood spheres?
  The high smoothness rating and tumble sanding virtually eliminate splinter risk, making them safe for touch and use by children under supervision.
• Are the natural wood balls suitable for Montessori or fine motor skills activities?
  Yes, their size, shape, and tactile qualities align well with educational and sensory play requirements.

Craftparts' 1/2" Round Maple Wood Ball offers a strong, natural, and ready-to-finish component tailored for woodworkers, crafters, educators, and toy makers. Its durable hardwood construction and smooth finish help simplify your project prep and expand creative possibilities with consistent, quality craftsmanship.