Your tree is down or about to be cut down...
Once the tree is down you need to consider a few things before cutting it into sections. In a matter of minutes to hours the log will develop radial cracks out from the pith (the heart of the tree). The pith will always crack and is therefore typically avoided in most objects. Controlling the cracking is our objective. They can be reduced by keeping the log out of direct sunlight. Painting the ends of the log with latex paint will help reduce the cracking as well. Wrapping the log in plastic will work, although mold will form in a matter of days. Mold after several weeks can stain the wood and after a month or two the log may begin to rot. As a last resort, simply cut the log twice as long as the finished object you might desire.
Where the log is located in the tree is a consideration. A tree that stood straight will typically have the pith center in the log. A tree that grew at a slant will have the pith off center. Branches always have an off center pith. A log with branches can add an artistic element. The crotch (where the trunk divided into branches) can reveal stunning grain patterns, but provides its own unique challenges. Any log will work, but a log from the trunk with a centered pith provides greater options.
Where the log is located in the tree is a consideration. A tree that stood straight will typically have the pith center in the log. A tree that grew at a slant will have the pith off center. Branches always have an off center pith. A log with branches can add an artistic element. The crotch (where the trunk divided into branches) can reveal stunning grain patterns, but provides its own unique challenges. Any log will work, but a log from the trunk with a centered pith provides greater options.
Keep in mind that freshly cut wood can be extremely heavy. If the log is too heavy to safely handle, it’s better to cut the log in half down its length with a chainsaw, cutting through the pith rather than cutting short length logs. Although fresh green wood is prefered, don't rule out a log you may have that was cut months or years ago. Let's take a look at it and see what we might be able to do with it.
Even with all the precautions taken, wood will crack - that’s just a fact. To insure you get something from your tree, I would suggest you provide me with 3 times the wood needed to insure one high quality piece.
Deliver the log to me as soon as possible. I typically prepare the log within 24 hours. My preferred method is referred to as twice turned. Your freshly cut log will be shaped with a chainsaw and/or a bandsaw and mounted on the lathe. A shape is determined by the grain of the wood and the style you desire. The bowl or vase is turned inside and out to a uniform thickness. The thickness is determined by the diameter. At this stage a 10% wall thickness is desirable (i.e., a 10” diameter bowl would have a 1” wall thickness). The bowl or vase is then removed from the lathe and set aside to dry. Depending on the size and wall thickness, it can take up to 12 months to dry. While it dries, the wood will warp and distort. The reason behind the 10% wall thickness is it provides enough material to return it to the lathe and make it round again.
I do not require payment until you see the finish product. You are under no obligation what-so-ever!
Even with all the precautions taken, wood will crack - that’s just a fact. To insure you get something from your tree, I would suggest you provide me with 3 times the wood needed to insure one high quality piece.
Deliver the log to me as soon as possible. I typically prepare the log within 24 hours. My preferred method is referred to as twice turned. Your freshly cut log will be shaped with a chainsaw and/or a bandsaw and mounted on the lathe. A shape is determined by the grain of the wood and the style you desire. The bowl or vase is turned inside and out to a uniform thickness. The thickness is determined by the diameter. At this stage a 10% wall thickness is desirable (i.e., a 10” diameter bowl would have a 1” wall thickness). The bowl or vase is then removed from the lathe and set aside to dry. Depending on the size and wall thickness, it can take up to 12 months to dry. While it dries, the wood will warp and distort. The reason behind the 10% wall thickness is it provides enough material to return it to the lathe and make it round again.
I do not require payment until you see the finish product. You are under no obligation what-so-ever!
