Bleaching timber platter

[efgee88]

I've turned a large platter from a slice off the base of an alder tree (I'm told) and I don't really like the pinkish blotchy colour of some of the growth rings.

Has anyone any experience with bleaching the colour out of timber? What is required?

I suppose my other choice is to stain the platter a darker colour, but I prefer it to be light, as it has a dark natural edge which would then not be as prominent.

Cheers,

FrankG

[Skew ChiDAMN!!]

Oxalic acid bleaches timber nicely. Esp. when followed with a liming solution. Of course, it depends on the timber; some just don't bleach well.

I've also heard of people soaking in normal chlorine based bleaches overnight, but that doesn't appeal to me somehow.

As with ebonising, it only affects the surface... so if you get over-enthusiastic when removing the raised nap afterward, colour will start to show.

[Ed Reiss]

here you go Frank.

http://antiquerestorers.com/Articles...ood_bleach.htm

[Skew ChiDAMN!!]

Mmmm... bookmarked!

[Cliff Rogers]

The latest Woodturning mag that just turned up this week also has an article on bleaching timber in it.

[efgee88]

Thanks Guys,

Cheers,

FrankG