Thread: Australian Pine

As a update....I have identified these slabs as callitris verrucosa or Cypress pine. If any one has used this timber for bowl turning, any information would be appreciated....Regards....AL

All the Australian Cypress pines have an attractive grain pattern and a wonderful odour.

For house frames they ar best worked green as when dry the timber is very fissile.

As it dries it cracks and splits.

I have turned small items from old and very dry Cypress. it turns beautifully on spindle items but can't say for bowls and platters.

It has a strange property in that when dry it splits very readilly but will cut like butter with a lathe tool or when pared with achisel for joints.

Thanks for the reply ARTME....the tree was cut last week. I have painted the ends, how long before I can commence turning without damage? or more to the point how much moisture has to be removed? Regards.......AL

Difficult to say.but generally about 10 -12 percent moisture content is good for working.

Drying time depends on thickness. The usual story is a year for every inch of thickness. However in your drier climate that may shorten the time.

If thats the case, there wont be much action for some time, Regards......AL