The process begins with harvesting wood with a chainsaw. Sometimes wood comes from folks who have a tree needing to come down, sometimes it is a result of damage from a storm or times when it comes from the forest or a farm....no matter where it is harvested.....it is lots of hard work!
The process - Cut logs into blanks, mount on the lathe. Then rough out the form, using gouges, boring bars, and other assorted tools, then seal with green wood sealer and put in large bag to allow a controlled environment to dissipate moisture from the blank. Allow to dry until the wood reaches a drying point where it can be finish turned......sometimes this drying process may take several months. This drying process allows for the natural movement of the wood to change the shape [ovaling] then the roughed out shape can be put through a secondary turning on the lathe, and true up the form, as you can see in the following statement.......
After the drying process, which is basically a stabilizing process to keep the wood from cracking, the form is returned to the lathe for finish cuts and final sanding, after which a finish is applied. Many man hours as turning can be a labor intensive process.
After the drying process, which is basically a stabilizing process to keep the wood from cracking, the form is returned to the lathe for finish cuts and final sanding, after which a finish is applied. Many man hours as turning can be a labor intensive process.
Large ambrosia maple that came down in our neighborhood. Some projects have already been made from some of this tree.
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Truck load of Maple
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From Tree to Artistic Treasure.........the process results in beautiful wooden treasures that would grace any setting in the home or business! Nature's beauty and the artist's vision, skills, and labor.........a collaboration that results in beautiful things that enhance our lives........all made in the timeless tradition of the artisan maker!
Some forms are utilitarian in nature........some are more artistic, like this hollow form with finial. Whatever the intended use for a form, the skills for these forms take much time and effort to develop.........but the results are worth the effort and the journey!
The lady who commissioned this walnut pedestal bowl [Carolyn E.] said, she is including this in her will as a family heirloom.