Tips for cutting across the grain on oak

**canado** · 17th December 2009, 11:16 AM

I want to reproduce a carving from an antique sideboard. It's oak, and I want to redo it in oak, but no matter how much I sharpen my gouge it tears out when I try going across the grain....any tips?

its a relief carving on a panel.

**joe greiner** · 17th December 2009, 11:12 PM

Use a "paring" cut - across the grain, more slicing than chopping. Also, cut toward the free end of the grain, so that the fibers are supported by those beneath - aka cutting "downhill." For a cylindrical cut, roll the gouge to duplicate that motion either way. Practice on celery if you have any doubts of effectiveness.

For minute details, consider using a craft knife (e.g. Xacto) very locally in the same fashion.

Cheers,
Joe

**canado** · 18th December 2009, 05:01 AM

I like the idea of rolling the gouge that sounds like it will work

thanks

**movay_2008** · 21st December 2009, 08:41 AM

It sounds like your wood is too dry.

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Tips for cutting across the grain on oak

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