Thread: how to handle natural edges?

I just remove the bark and give it a sanding and a finish as any other timber.

I remove the bark with an angle grinder and as fine a wire wheel as I can find. It doesn't have to (and can't) be as soft as a paint brush but it should not be a super stiff wire wheels.

I remove the bark using light 100-150mm strokes in the direction of the grain. If I find a patch or hole with bark in it that the wheel cannot reach i keep working at the area with the wire wheel in the direction of the grain. The wire wheel will slowly abrade the wood away but leave the wood with a streaky texture not unlike the natural edge.

If you accidentally leave some bark on the edge it will show up if you add most finishes.
Like this.
https://www.woodworkforums.com/attach...1&d=1308352226

If this happens you can go back with the wire wheel and take it out at that point.

Before final finishing, instead of using sand paper I use a fine wire brush and hand brush the edge and then apply the top coat.

Thanks for the thorough explanation Bob. I like the sound of it and will give this method a try.