I decided on a herringbone pattern for this floor, partly because the real-life Warakubune has a herringbone floor (though I don’t remember if theirs is wood or tile) and partly because I wanted the challenge of doing something a little different. I used 3/8″ x 1/16″ balsa cut into 1-7/8″ strips. These needed to be cut precisely in order for the pattern to line up. I did run into a little trouble once I realized that the strips in my newest package of balsa weren’t consistent in width. Luckily, I was able to make it work with some extra sanding where needed.
These strips of balsa were not only inconsistent in size but also in appearance. Most had the usual grain running lengthwise, but the grain on some was blotchy, almost spotted, with a slightly reddish hue. (This variation wasn’t nearly so apparent in any other package of balsa I’ve ever bought.) I used a natural wood shade of stain, which was barely darker than the light color of the wood itself. Still, I think the whole effect of the floor provides a nice contrast to the color of the walls and trim.
