Thread: Any timbers to avoid for pens? And how dry does the timber need to be?

Originally Posted by RSD

Are there any timbers to avoid for pens?

Does the timber need to be dry (less than 11% moisture) like timber used for making river tables or ?

How I dry my timbers in my roof space I place a fan to blow across them 24/7 use a sample stack weigh them regularly and bring them out when the weight is unchanged,works for me. My wife said use your wrist to feel the timber it is a good guide or has proved for me. Huge mistake is use wet timber believe me.

Peter.

Originally Posted by Penpal

How I dry my timbers in my roof space I place a fan to blow across them 24/7 use a sample stack weigh them regularly and bring them out when the weight is unchanged,works for me. My wife said use your wrist to feel the timber it is a good guide or has proved for me. Huge mistake is use wet timber believe me.

Peter.

I'm experimenting with drying timber pieces in a food dehydrator I got off ebay - a lot of experimenting to see what works without splitting occuring.

Put them into cardboard boxes. They are sucked dry in no time flat.

On timbers to avoid? I've not tried Balsa....


I think absolutely anything will work. If it can be drilled, it will work. For those that can't be drilled, there is always Cactus Juice

Originally Posted by woodPixel

Put them into cardboard boxes. They are sucked dry in no time flat.

On timbers to avoid? I've not tried Balsa....


I think absolutely anything will work. If it can be drilled, it will work. For those that can't be drilled, there is always Cactus Juice

Cactus juice?

Cactus Juice Stabilizing Resin, Chambers, and Accessories

One sinks the timber in this juice, apply a vacuum to suck it in, then bake it in the oven.

It turns into a hard resin that holds nasty timber in shape and (?I believe) makes it reasonably water resistant for longevity.

I believe the knife makers use it to ensure their handles stay nice for extended periods.


For nasty timbers, I've personally used thin CA glue (super glue. CA = Cyanoacrylate). One applies it lightly to the Troubled Area and it wicks right in. Hardens to a resin that polishes well.

Originally Posted by Penpal

How I dry my timbers in my roof space I place a fan to blow across them 24/7 use a sample stack weigh them regularly and bring them out when the weight is unchanged,works for me. My wife said use your wrist to feel the timber it is a good guide or has proved for me. Huge mistake is use wet timber believe me.

Peter.

What is the best process to turn a big piece of rescued wood into pen blanks?

Originally Posted by RSD

What is the best process to turn a big piece of rescued wood into pen blanks?

Hahaha... easy!

A bandsaw!!