Block Cutting & End Grain Turning

[smidsy]

Hei Guys,
Got some jarrah that is about 14 weeks off the tree - treated with end check within hours of coming down.
Two of the blocks are about 600mm across but only about 400mm long.

Is it too early to think about cutting and rough turning, and what would be the best way to cut these in terms of maximum use out of the wood.

Also, is there any way to successfully end grain turn wood - I'd love to make a large platter with one of these blocks.

Cheers
Paul

[rsser]

Paul,

Good pieces!

From memory of posts and such, successful end-grain turnings tend to be with deep bowls and vases and the like.

The problem with a shallow piece will be strength, both while turning and while using.

One option would be to cut one down the middle and make pencil jars. Make good gifts and a good test of your hollowing technique! Can be done green if you don't mind oval jars and you're quick ... though my max depth has been about 13 cm with a standard (almost) square scraper. Done a few in reclaimed jarrah.