Norfolk pine Log

[watsrags]

I have a Norfolk Pine log 1 metre in lenght and 210cm round , it was cut down about a month ago. Am thinking of cutting it into 5 / 7 bits and sealing the ends and stacking in the shed to dry out.
Is thiis a good idea or not and if so do it use to seal it with

[hughie]

Keep it whole and and in a damp place for a few weeks to let it spalt up,.Then turn it green vwithin 10% of final thickness spray or slop on a mix of 50/50 water and dishwashing detegent let it soak in a couple of hours at most ]

Finish turning with very thin walls, sand green by hand whilst soaking it in a mix of white spirit and boiled linseed 50/50. Fully submerge the bowl to get the mix to fully penetrate. When finished it will be transulcent.


http://www.hawaiiwoodturning.com

http://cgi.ebay.com.my/TRANSLUCENT-NORFOLK-PINE-WOOD-BOWL-VASE-LATHE-TURNED_W0QQitemZ400019247147QQihZ027QQcategoryZ553QQcmdZViewItem

http://www.hanacoast.com/Kent2.HTML

[watsrags]

Am I game, its been 40 years since I last turned a bowl (was still in high school } but then again the log was free

[rsser]

Free is good Trevor and you'll have enough to play with.

The stuff is remarkably stable so don't hesitate to turn it green. Unless you're a good deal dryer over your way than Melb it may not need to be sealed, esp. if it was lopped in the cooler months. Do however leave the branches sticking a few inches clear of the trunk if you have the option; or else seal them cos there's a tendency for them to carry rot into the heart.

The big hassle I've found is bluestain.

Looking at pics like Hughie posted I'm guessing that the colour range is produced by bluestain on the one hand and plain fungal infection producing the pink tones.

I've tried spalting the stuff without success - wrapped in plastic and kept moist with a water/sugar solution as suggested by one of the Hawaii turners.

Anyway, that experience comes from one tree; your mileage may vary.

[rsser]

Just to add: with my lot the predominant colour was a boring greyish beige, so no wonder turners are trying to spalt and oil soak.

Also when properly dry the stuff is a pig with tear-out so having at it before then is a good idea.