Knowledge You Can Build On — Est. 1998
Maple Burl
Brian B
Hello All. I just got a large maple burl given to me. I have never tackled one this big before..its about 3 ft across. I plan on making bowls out of it and I plan to core it. In the past on burls I have turned green to final thickness. What are others' approach to burls as far as turning and drying? Do you prefer to turn thick and dry then remount them for finish turning or turn them to final thickness while green? Any other tips for burls would be appreciated as well..
Re: Maple Burl
Ron Bauer
Brian, I am sure there are as many views on this as there are viewers, but this is my recommendation. Turn to final thickness and form the first time. It could be very difficult turning after drying if the lobes are large. They will flutter under the stress of the rotation and the pressure from the tool. The job is hard enough when it is green and you have the support of the wood in the bottom of the bowl. This is just my opinion. Good luck and post some pix. Ron.
