Thread: Using New Guinea Rosewood.

Hi Mr Hotspur,

I am also about to commence a barrister's bookcase and sought views on timber. I considered American Walnut, Mahogany, Tasmanian Myrtle and others. Responses I received were illuminating; to wit: the piece is an old traditional design and would benefit from use of a traditional timber such as American Oak, or failing that Mahogany. Other timbers might look odd. I have used NGR a bit and can confirm that it is very 'alive' once a finish is applied, and the redder sections only emphasise this appearance. Even the tan tones will reveal a considerable yellow/orange tint, together with a lot of figure that is invisible prior to application of the finish. However, if you realise that and want it then why not use NGR - there are no rules. You could always try it on a small project first and see what you think.
It's difficult relating to a pseudonym, if indeed that is what Hotspur is (if so I would like to call you by your first name of Tottenham). I'm sure using your real monniker will not result in your being stalked on these forums(!)
Remember to post a picture of the finished article. I'll be doing the same.
Good Luck.

hello Mr Karl1

Yes,I agree-the rosewood does look rather 'alive',and may not suit the look for a barristers bookcase.I agree walnut,Brazilian mahogany etc would be far better,
However I live in a remote location,and was able to purchase some of a near by mill that kiln dried for a merchant.So saved me a lot of hassel getting it to my workshop.

BTW I have found a very useful set of plans to build this case,its an Amercian plan so unfortunately its all in inches,but most useful_I'll find the link if you want it-was only $10 I think.

Chris

Hi Chris,

I've had some experience with NGR and it's a beautiful timber to work with; it's relatively soft and sharp blades leave an excellent finish even with the reversing grain, as long as you machine it slowly, and a finely set handplane will leave it like glass. I also love the smell of it, but that's a personal thing.

Hope to see some pics when it's done.

Regards,
Elan

Ok,thanks Elen-it does seem to have reversing grain a bit more than any other timber I have used-I will sharpen up all my tools as you suggest.Yes it does come up like glass,and certainly smells nice.

I have made some small fold up chairs from it,I will post some images in this thread

Chris

Hi Chris,

If you have the timber already and think it looks ok then why not use it. It's not cheap to buy the stuff any more. I attended the woodworking show in Melbourne last year and found a book with a plan that I liked, but before that I trawled the internet and found these plans, all of which are variations on the theme and I think would have to be purchased. Anyway see what you think of these. All including the one in my book are imperial. I actually made a chopping board out of NGR last year so I'll try to remember to take a photo and post it for you to give an idea of what it looks like.
http://www.woodprojects.com/MH-W2123.htm
http://www.woodprojects.com/fd-198.htm
http://www.woodworkersworkshop.com/store/Barristers_Bookcase_Woodworking_Plan.html
http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=878
http://www.popularwoodworking.com/article/simple_barrister_bookcases/
http://www.popularwoodworking.com/features/fea2.html
Karl