What kind of wood is a wooden ukulele made of?

Ukuleles are versatile instruments that can be made from many materials. It can be made from just about any type of wood, solid or laminate, or even plastics. The original instruments were made with native Hawaiian woods. It needs to be strong and light. Mahogany, spruce, maple, and mango are common. The prime wood that is sought after is the Koa wood.

Many ukuleles are made from plastic and some quality instruments are available (Flea and Fluke are examples). Inexpensive 'toy' ukuleles are available as well.

Ukuleles are also made from existing items. An example is the cigar box Ukulele or the lunch box ukulele, where the sound box is built from an existing structure and a neck is added to the box. Some makers even use metal cans for the body of their ukuleles. Wood is the primary material for a traditional ukulele. Koa wood is traditional, but pretty much any wood can be used. Popular types are mango, mahogany, spruce, and cedar. Fret boards are often made of rosewood or even ebony.

There is metal in the frets and the tuners.

Inlays are made from plastic, ivory or mother-of-pearl.