Wood Gloat

Question from the ignorant—I recall having heard this someplace, but not sure where… is the spalting a toxic fungus? And is that the purpose of the DNA?

-b

Spalting is not unnecessarily ‘toxic’ but the mold spores can cause some harm if breathed in and you are allergic.
The DNA is for faster drying time. There is a process of soaking in DNA, then bagging of the bottom of the bowl and then letting it air dry. You can go from 6-9 months drying to as low as 3-4 weeks. Then the item can be turn to desired size and shape.

You can probably web search “DNA Drying” and get a better idea.

-- http://inhisgrip1.blogspot.com/

I also have a question… what do you use to coat the rough pieces to reduce checking?

I was coming home the other day from picking up the kiddos from daycare, and saw that a road crew had finished cutting down a giant sugar maple that was standing the day before, and I was able to grab a few chunks, in particular a nice crotch section with some obvious burls. I figure there’s bound to be some nice grain patterns in there.

My father told me when I started getting into woodworking that I’d be stopping on the side of the road to pick up wood, but I never imagined I’d be doing it in the dark by flashlight with two little ones in the car (“Daddy, why do you need that flashlight? What are you doing with that tree, Daddy?”)...

I’ve just got them sitting in the shop drying out, and after only a week, I’m already seeing checks starting in the ends… Any advice would be appreciated!

-- Ryno

That is an astounding load of lumber. Quilted and spalted…yeah baby!

And for those of you (like myself) who thought they would have to strike up a friendship with Gil Grissom to get some dry blanks – try Googling DeNatured Alcohol. Here's a good hit.

-- "Bordnerizing" perfectly good lumber for over a decade.