Introduction

If you’re thinking about adding wooden sunglasses to your product line, you’re not alone. A lot of eyewear brands are testing the waters with wood—some for the natural look, others for the eco-friendly appeal.

But before you jump in, there are a few things worth understanding. Not all wood types are the same, and not every wooden frame will hold up in real-world conditions. We’ve seen buyers get excited by samples, place an order, and then end up with quality complaints due to cracking, warping, or poor finish.

This article is written for people in the eyewear business—wholesalers, brand owners, distributors—who want to get into wooden frames but need the facts first. We’ll break down what kinds of wood are actually good for eyewear, what to watch out for in production, and how to choose the right material depending on your market.

No fancy talk. Just clear info to help you make the right decision.

What Should You Know About Wood Before Making Sunglasses?

Before you start producing wooden sunglasses, you need to understand three key things: material selection, processing challenges, and customer expectations.

First, not all wood is suitable for eyewear. You need stable, lightweight, and durable types—like bamboo, walnut, or maple. These woods handle cutting, sanding, and finishing well, and they’re less likely to crack or warp over time.

Second, the way wood is processed matters a lot. Unlike acetate, wood reacts to moisture and heat. That means you’ll need proper treatment—such as sealing, polishing, and sometimes lamination—to keep the frames from deforming. A small mistake during finishing can lead to big quality issues.

Lastly, consider your customer. Buyers who choose wooden sunglasses often care about eco-friendliness, natural aesthetics, or a handcrafted feel. But they also expect comfort, smooth surfaces, and stable hinges. Your design, branding, and packaging all need to support that image.

In short: making wooden sunglasses isn’t hard—but doing it right takes planning, the right materials, and a solid understanding of what your buyers expect from this niche product.

Curious which wood types actually work best—and which ones to avoid?

You’re not alone. Many eyewear brands rush into wooden frames because they look unique or eco-friendly, but later find out that not every wood is cut out for the job.

In the next section, we’ll walk you through the most commonly used woods in the eyewear industry—what they look like, how they perform, and which ones make the best fit for different styles and markets.

Let’s dive into the materials that really matter.

1. Why Are More and More Brands Choosing Wood for Sunglasses?

In recent years, wooden sunglasses have gained popularity due to two main trends: eco-conscious consumer demand and the desire for unique, natural-looking frames.

Customers today are drawn to sustainability. Wood—especially bamboo or reclaimed wood—gives off an environmentally responsible image. For brands, it’s an easy way to stand out in a market flooded with plastic and acetate.

In addition, wood adds personality. No two wooden frames look exactly the same, thanks to natural grain variation. This allows eyewear businesses to offer a handcrafted, boutique feel—even in wholesale production.

For B2B buyers, wooden sunglasses also open new market opportunities. They appeal to eco-friendly stores, tourist shops, outdoor brands, and even corporate gifting markets looking for “green” merchandise.

2. The Story Behind Wooden Eyewear

Wooden eyewear may feel trendy today, but the idea isn’t exactly new.

✔️ Centuries ago, some handmade eyewear frames in remote areas were carved from wood—not for fashion, but out of necessity.
✔️ Then came acetate and metal, and wood quietly disappeared from the eyewear world.
✔️ Until the 2000s, when small, independent brands brought it back—this time with a purpose: sustainability, craftsmanship, and standing out.

Now, wooden sunglasses are more than just “natural”—they’re a statement. A return to slow fashion. A way to bring nature, texture, and authenticity back to your product line.

3.What Kinds of Wood Are Commonly Used for Sunglass Frames?

Choosing the right wood is the first step to making sure your wooden sunglasses are not only beautiful—but also durable, stable, and easy to sell. Below are five of the most popular woods used in this industry, and why they work.

3.1 Bamboo – Light and Eco-Friendly

Bamboo is one of the most widely used materials for eco-friendly sunglasses wholesale. It’s actually a grass, not a tree, which means it grows incredibly fast—making it highly renewable and sustainable.

Why it’s popular:

• Extremely lightweight, comfortable for long wear
• Affordable and ideal for bulk production
• Great for brands focused on sustainability
• Can be stained or left natural

However, bamboo is softer than hardwoods, so it needs proper treatment to avoid dents or surface wear. It’s also more commonly used for full-frame sunglasses rather than mixed-material designs.

3.2 Walnut – Rich Texture with a Premium Look

Walnut has a deep brown tone with elegant grain patterns, making it a favorite for high-end wooden sunglasses. It gives off a classic, luxurious vibe that pairs well with metal temples or gold accents.

Why it’s popular:

• Strong and stable, less prone to warping
• Beautiful natural finish—needs little dye or stain
• Works well for laser engraving and brand logos

Walnut is a bit heavier than bamboo but still wearable. It’s a smart choice for brands targeting fashion boutiques or lifestyle retailers.

3.3 Zebrawood – Unique and Eye-Catching Grain

Zebrawood gets its name from its bold striped appearance—light wood with dark streaks. It’s used by brands that want their sunglasses to make a visual statement right away.

Why it’s popular:

• Very unique, no two frames look the same
• Adds high perceived value to your product line
• Durable and handles shaping well

The boldness of zebrawood isn’t for every market—it’s best suited for younger, trend-driven consumers or limited edition drops.

3.4 Rosewood – Heavy and Luxurious

Rosewood is dense, dark, and luxurious. It’s often found in musical instruments and furniture, and now increasingly in small-batch premium eyewear collections.

Why it’s popular:

• Dense structure = long-lasting frames
• Rich reddish-brown tone with deep grains
• Feels high-end in hand—great for upscale packaging

It’s heavier than other woods, which means it might not be ideal for all-day wear. But for brands that want to position themselves at the luxury end of the market, rosewood delivers a strong impression.

3.5 Maple – Smooth and Easy to Work With

Maple is a light-colored hardwood that’s smooth, reliable, and very workable. It’s often used in custom wooden sunglasses thanks to its consistency and finish quality.

Why it’s popular:

• Excellent for carving, cutting, or CNC shaping
• Smooth surface = ideal for paint, coatings, or logos
• Lightweight and comfortable for daily wear

Maple is a safe, versatile choice—especially if you’re just starting to explore wooden sunglasses production.

What Makes Each Wood Type Different?

When it comes to producing wooden sunglasses, not all woods behave the same. Each wood type has its own personality—how it looks, feels, performs in production, and how it’s perceived by end customers. Here’s a breakdown of what truly sets them apart:

Key Differences Explained

• Look & Grain: Zebrawood stands out visually, while maple and bamboo offer more minimalistic aesthetics. Walnut and rosewood give a premium, traditional feel.
• Weight: Bamboo is ideal for customers who prioritize lightness and comfort. Rosewood, while beautiful, can feel noticeably heavier.
• Durability: Rosewood and walnut offer excellent longevity, especially in varying climates. Bamboo requires proper treatment to maintain its shape.
• Processing Difficulty: Maple is easy to shape, engrave, or paint, making it great for custom lines. Zebrawood and rosewood, due to their density, may require more experienced production.
• End-Use Positioning: Bamboo suits eco-conscious or fast-moving SKUs; rosewood is better for limited editions or gift sets; zebrawood attracts trend-sensitive customers.

By understanding these differences, you can better match each wood type with your target market, price point, and branding direction. Whether you’re building a sustainable collection or a luxury wood series, choosing the right material is step one to getting it right.

Is Wood Really a Good Material for Sunglasses? Pros and Cons

Wood isn’t just a trendy choice—it’s a genuinely viable material for sunglasses when used correctly. But like any material, it has both strengths and limitations. For eyewear wholesalers and brand owners, understanding the real-world pros and cons can help you decide whether it’s the right fit for your product line.

✅ Pros of Using Wood for Sunglasses

1. Sustainable Appeal
   Wood—especially bamboo or reclaimed wood—is renewable and biodegradable. Many consumers today actively seek out eco-friendly eyewear, and wood fits that narrative perfectly.
2. Unique Look
   Every wooden frame has its own grain pattern, color tone, and texture. This gives your collection a handcrafted, boutique-like feel, even when sold in bulk.
3. Lightweight Comfort
   Materials like bamboo and maple are extremely light, making them ideal for all-day wear. This is especially attractive in hot climates where heavier frames feel uncomfortable.
4. Laser Engraving Friendly
   Wood allows easy and clear laser engraving for logos, custom designs, or personalized branding—ideal for B2B eyewear clients who want to offer private label options.
5. Differentiation in a Crowded Market
   In a sea of acetate and metal, wooden frames stand out. They offer a talking point for retailers and an emotional hook for end consumers—especially in the travel, nature, or eco-lifestyle segments.

❌ Cons of Using Wood for Sunglasses

1. Moisture Sensitivity
   Untreated or poorly treated wood can absorb moisture, which leads to warping, cracking, or discoloration over time—especially in humid or tropical markets.
2. Limited Flexibility
   Wood isn’t as flexible as acetate or TR90. It’s more prone to snapping under pressure, which means the design must be carefully engineered for durability.
3. More Labor-Intensive Production
   Wooden frames often require extra steps like sanding, oiling, sealing, and quality checking. This can result in longer lead times and slightly higher costs compared to plastic frames.
4. Color & Grain Variation
   Since wood is a natural material, no two frames will look exactly the same. While that’s part of the charm, it can create challenges in bulk consistency—something important for wholesalers or distributors.
5. Limited Adjustability After Production
   Unlike acetate frames, wooden ones can’t be easily reshaped after manufacturing. Once they’re made, they stay as they are.

Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

If you’re working with a reliable B2B sunglasses supplier who understands wooden materials and applies proper treatments, most of these cons can be minimized or fully avoided.

Wood is a great material—when matched with the right market, the right design, and the right production partner.

How to Pick the Right Wood for Your Eyewear Brand

Choosing the right wood isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about matching material to brand identity, production capacity, and customer expectations. Here’s how to choose the most suitable wood for different types of eyewear businesses.

6.1. For Sustainable/Eco Brands

If your brand emphasizes environmental responsibility, recyclability, or natural materials, you need a wood that aligns with that message—without compromising on comfort or price.

Best Choices:

• Bamboo – Fast-growing, renewable, and biodegradable. It’s the go-to for eco-friendly sunglasses wholesale.
• Reclaimed Wood – A great marketing story, especially for “upcycled” or zero-waste collections.

What to Consider:

• Make sure the bamboo is properly sealed to prevent moisture issues.
• Promote the eco-benefits through packaging and messaging—customers care about the story.

Bonus Tip: Pair wooden frames with sustainable lenses or cork packaging to strengthen your eco-branding.

6.2. For High-End or Designer Brands

If your market is focused on fashion boutiques, luxury optical retailers, or personalized gifting, the material must reflect premium quality and craftsmanship.

Best Choices:

• Walnut – Rich color, smooth finish, and a classy feel.
• Rosewood – Heavy, dense, and full of natural character—perfect for limited edition drops.
• Zebrawood – Bold, unique patterns for designer aesthetics.

What to Consider:

• Use brushed or matte finishes to highlight the natural grain.
• Combine wood with metal hinges or gold/silver accents to elevate the overall value.

Bonus Tip: Invest in premium packaging—like wooden cases or suede pouches—to match the product’s high-end image.

6.3. For Custom Handmade or Small-Batch Brands

Smaller brands or indie eyewear lines often focus on craftsmanship, uniqueness, and flexible customization. In this case, ease of processing and versatility matter more than scale.

Best Choices:

• Maple – Easy to cut, shape, engrave, and finish. Great for personalized or made-to-order models.
• Zebrawood (in small runs) – Eye-catching for niche audiences.

What to Consider:

• Look for woods that handle CNC or hand carving well.
• Use laser engraving for logos, names, or even customer-specific designs.

Bonus Tip: Promote your “small-batch” or “handmade” identity—this resonates well with younger consumers and gift buyers.

Final Thought on Wood Selection

Your wood choice isn’t just a material decision—it’s a branding strategy. Choose the wood that tells your story, fits your customers’ values, and supports your product goals. And always make sure your supplier understands how to process the material correctly—quality starts long before the first frame is cut.

Wood Treatment and Finishing Techniques

Even the best wood can perform poorly if it’s not treated or finished the right way. In the eyewear industry, treatment isn’t just about looks—it’s about ensuring the frames hold up under real-world conditions like humidity, sweat, sunlight, and handling.

Here’s what you need to know about finishing wooden sunglasses the professional way.

1. Drying and Moisture Control

Before anything else, raw wood needs to be kiln-dried or air-dried to remove excess moisture. If this step is skipped or done too quickly, the final frames might warp or crack later—especially in humid markets like Southeast Asia or tropical regions.

What to ask your supplier:

• Is the wood fully dried before shaping?
• Do they measure moisture content before production?

✅ At Eyewearbeyond, we use wood that meets moisture control standards for export-ready frames.

2. Sanding and Surface Smoothing

Sanding is where the frame gets its final shape and feel. A well-sanded wooden frame feels smooth, splinter-free, and comfortable against the skin. This step also affects how well the wood takes on oils, varnishes, or laser engraving.

Best practice:

• Use multiple sanding stages (coarse > medium > fine grit)
• Hand-sanding for curved edges or detail areas

3. Sealing and Protective Coating

Raw wood is porous—it will absorb sweat, water, or oils if left untreated. That’s why sealing is critical. Depending on your market positioning, different coatings can be used:

• Natural Oil Finish – For an organic look and feel. Popular with eco brands.
• Clear Varnish – Adds light water resistance and shine, used in mid-range models.
• Matte Polyurethane Coating – For luxury frames, improves durability and gives a high-end touch.

Tip: Choose coatings that are skin-safe and hypoallergenic—especially for sunglasses worn directly on the face.

4. Color Staining or Painting

While many brands love the natural grain, some choose to stain or color the wood to match fashion trends or seasonal colors. Lighter woods like maple take on dye better, while darker woods like walnut may only need oiling.

Options include:

• Water-based wood stains (eco-friendly, low-VOC)
• UV-resistant paints for tropical climates
• Charcoal-burning technique (for deep-black rustic effects)

5. Laser Engraving and Branding

Wood is excellent for custom branding. Laser engraving can be used to add your logo, SKU, limited-edition batch numbers, or even customer names. It works best on flat temples or the inner arm of the frame.

Pro tip: Lighter woods like maple and bamboo show engraving contrast better than darker woods.

Summary

Proper treatment is what turns raw wood into a ready-to-sell sunglass frame. If your supplier cuts corners here, you’ll deal with returns, negative feedback, or inconsistent quality. Work with a factory that treats wood like a technical material—not just decoration.

At Eyewearglobo, we control every step—from moisture testing to finishing—to help you deliver products that are not only beautiful, but built to last.

Will Wooden Sunglasses Hold Up Over Time?

This is one of the most common questions we hear from new buyers—and it’s a valid one. Wood is a natural material, and people worry it might crack, warp, or feel uncomfortable. But with the right treatment and build quality, wooden sunglasses can be just as reliable as acetate or metal frames.

Let’s break it down into real-world performance:

8.1 Water and Sweat Resistance

Wood by nature is absorbent—but that doesn’t mean wooden sunglasses are weak in wet environments. With proper sealing, wooden frames can resist water, sweat, and even light rain without any problems.

Here’s what matters:

• Frames should be sealed with water-resistant coatings (oil, varnish, or polyurethane)
• The hinges and nose pads must be fitted tightly to avoid water penetration
• Tropical or humid markets should opt for extra matte sealants to prevent swelling

✅ At Eyewearbeyond, all wooden sunglasses go through a moisture-resistance test before bulk shipping.

Important: Wooden frames should never be fully submerged in water or left in very humid storage conditions. With reasonable care, they hold up well in everyday use.

8.2 Comfort and Fit

Lightweight woods like bamboo and maple are incredibly comfortable to wear, even for long hours. The smooth finish and natural warmth of wood also feel pleasant on the skin—unlike metal, which can be cold or cause allergic reactions.

What improves comfort:

• Ergonomic shaping during sanding
• Nose pad options: wooden, silicone, or combined
• Flexible hinges or spring hinges for better temple fit

Wood is not naturally flexible, but modern production allows for precise shaping and hinge design to ensure a snug, comfortable fit without pinching.

8.3 How Long They Typically Last

With regular use, a well-made pair of wooden sunglasses can last 2–4 years or more, depending on:

• The type of wood used (dense woods like rosewood last longer)
• Finish quality and coating durability
• Storage habits (avoid leaving them in hot cars or humid places)
• Daily wear and tear (especially if worn during sports or outdoor work)

For most customers, wooden frames won’t wear out faster than plastic—they just require slightly more care, like wiping them dry after sweating or keeping them in a case.

Final Word on Longevity

If you’re selling to retailers or building your own brand, remember: durability isn’t just about the material—it’s about how it’s made. When sourced from a trusted wooden sunglasses supplier and treated properly, wood frames perform well in daily use and offer a unique, lasting impression to end users.

What Challenges Come with Making Wooden Sunglasses?

Wooden sunglasses are attractive, eco-friendly, and marketable—but from a production standpoint, they aren’t always easy. Compared to acetate or TR90, wood behaves differently during processing, and there’s less room for error. If you’re planning to introduce a wood line, it’s important to understand these key challenges upfront.

1. Material Stability

Unlike synthetic materials, wood is organic and varies from batch to batch. Without proper drying and treatment, wood can warp, crack, or swell, especially when shipped internationally or stored in humid environments.

What to do:

• Always confirm that the wood is kiln-dried and stabilized before production.
• Use coatings that protect against humidity and moisture exposure.
• Choose wood types with a history of good performance in sunglasses, like bamboo, maple, and walnut.

2. Limited Flexibility in Design

Wood doesn’t flex like plastic. This means:

• Tight curves or wraparound designs are harder to achieve.
• There’s a higher chance of breakage during CNC cutting or hand shaping.
• Hinges must be positioned precisely and reinforced properly.

Tip: Keep your designs simple, functional, and structurally balanced. Intricate shapes look great—but only if the wood can handle them.

3. Finishing Takes More Time

To meet modern consumer expectations, wooden sunglasses must be:

• Smooth to the touch
• Consistent in color and finish
• Free from splinters or rough edges

This requires extra sanding, polishing, and multi-layer sealing—especially for premium collections. Compared to acetate frames, production may take longer per unit, affecting your delivery timelines.

4. Color and Grain Inconsistency

No two pieces of wood look exactly alike. While this uniqueness is a selling point, it can also cause issues with:

• Color matching across SKUs
• Bulk order consistency
• Retailers wanting uniform display samples

Solution: Clearly communicate this with your buyers and position it as part of the product’s natural charm.

5. Engraving and Branding Limitations

Laser engraving works well on wood, but:

• It may appear faint on dark woods like rosewood.
• Over-engraving can burn the surface and damage the coating.
• Paint and pad printing may not adhere well without proper pre-treatment.

If you’re offering custom branding for clients, be sure to test methods on each wood type before confirming bulk production.

6. Longer Lead Time & Higher Production Cost

Due to extra labor and manual finishing, wooden sunglasses usually have:

• Longer production lead times, especially for small-batch orders
• Higher unit costs than mass-produced plastic frames

For small brands or custom drops, this can be acceptable. But for high-volume resellers, this needs to be factored into planning.

Final Thought on Challenges

Wooden sunglasses aren’t difficult to make—but they require more care, craftsmanship, and process control. If you’re working with an experienced partner like Eyewearglobo, many of these challenges can be solved at the factory level—before they ever reach your customer.

The key is to go in prepared. Know the limits of the material, plan your designs accordingly, and set realistic expectations for timeline and consistency.

Thinking of Launching Wooden Eyewear? Read These Tips First

So you’ve decided to try wooden sunglasses. Great! But before placing that first bulk order, there are a few things you should know to make the process smoother—and to avoid surprises down the road.

Here are the key tips based on what we’ve learned from real projects and long-term B2B clients.

10.1. How to Find the Right Wood Supplier

Not all eyewear factories are equipped to handle wood. You need a supplier who understands wood behavior, surface finishing, and export standards.

Checklist for supplier selection:

• Do they have experience specifically with wooden frames (not just acetate)?
• Can they show you samples from previous orders—especially with finishing and engraving?
• Do they have a controlled drying and coating process in place?
• Are they willing to support small custom runs (if you’re testing the market)?

✅ At Eyewearbeyond, we’ve been producing both stock and custom wooden sunglasses for years, with support for laser branding, custom coating, and private-label packaging.

10.2. What’s the MOQ and Lead Time Usually Like?

Wooden sunglasses require more time and manual work, so the MOQ (minimum order quantity) is usually:

• 10pcs per model/color for ready-made designs
• 100-300 pcs for fully customized shapes or engravings

Lead time:

• 30–45 days for new designs
• 20–25 days for repeat orders or in-stock models

Pro tip: Avoid peak seasons (May–August) if you want faster delivery.

10.3. Tips for Surface Treatment, Engraving & Branding

Branding is what makes your wooden eyewear line stand out. Whether you’re launching under your own label or for a client, pay attention to:

Branding Options:

• Laser Engraving – Best for temples or inside arms; clean and permanent
• UV Printing – Works on sealed wood but requires a flat surface
• Metal Inlays – For high-end designs (may increase cost)

Surface Tips:

• Use matte or semi-gloss finishes for a natural, high-end look
• Avoid overly shiny coatings—they often feel “cheap” and hide the wood grain
• Always ask for sample photos or physical proofs before finalizing branding

10.4. Packaging Ideas That Match the Product Vibe

The unboxing experience matters—especially when your product emphasizes “natural” or “handmade” quality. Choose packaging that reflects your product’s personality.

Packaging Suggestions:

• Recycled Kraft Boxes – Great for eco brands
• Wooden Slide Boxes – Premium look, perfect for gifting
• Cork or Fabric Pouches – Lightweight, cost-effective, and reusable
• Custom Logo Sleeves or Stickers – Help reinforce your brand identity

Make sure your packaging fits the retail price level of your product. For example, if you’re selling at $50+ retail, kraft paper bags won’t match the buyer’s expectation.

Final Tip

Start with one or two hero designs, get real feedback, and scale from there. Wooden sunglasses are not only about the material—they’re about storytelling, lifestyle, and positioning. When done right, they offer strong margins and great customer appeal.

If you need a supplier that understands both mass production and boutique customization, Eyewearglobo is here to support your wooden eyewear journey.

Conclusion

Wooden sunglasses are more than just a trend—they’re a smart move for brands looking to offer something natural, stylish, and different. But to succeed in this niche, you need more than just good design—you need the right wood, the right process, and the right supplier.

Whether you’re building an eco-friendly line, a luxury wood collection, or a custom engraved drop, the key is preparation. Choose stable materials, understand the production flow, and work with a team that knows how to bring your idea to life.

At Eyewearbeyond, we’ve helped wholesalers, retailers, and startup brands worldwide launch wooden sunglasses with confidence—by offering stable production, customizable options, and quality you can count on.

Ready to start your wooden eyewear project? Let’s talk.