For those who may not be familiar with woodturning, I will outline a definition for it. This art form is an ancient process that began in the third century BC by the Egyptians. Since then, many refinements have been made to the tools used, but the concept remains similar. Woodworkers prefer using soft woods, such as Maple, for turning bowls and pens, as it is cut more easily than hardwoods like Oak.
Knowing the type of wood to use, the effort and time spent creating wood bowls, plates, pens, etc. can be very rewarding. The markings on maple trees are often stunning and can be used to create many different pieces.
A tutorial on wood burls:
You should take into consideration which species of wood is best suited for your particular craft, and the intended design that you are basing your creation on. Highly figured designs in the wood grain are extremely desirable, and add depth and color to wood objects.
A three-dimensional chunk of raw, green maple, which may or may not be sanded, is called a “blank”, and is the start of a beautiful creation. If only a hobby, or a way of life for the crafter, it remains cost-effective to buy the blanks in larger quantities. Figured Pen blanks are highly prized by connoiseurs of high-quality pens, where the wood is hollowed out with a lathe and replaced with the mechanics of a ballpoint or fountain pen.
Both men and women enjoy woodworking and turning maple blanks. Investing in the proper tools is essential, the lathe being the most important. Of course, protective clothing and safety glasses is highly recommended. Burns on the hands can also happen accidentally due to the high rotations per minute, particular when caution is not being exercised
Since maple woodturning blanks and wood burls are the most popular to work with, they are also the most expensive. Especially, their burls can be used to produce artistic pieces of great quality. What may be seen as “defects” by many, a wood turner makes into beautiful conversation pieces, and ones that are quite valuable.
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