Reply by Sheila Landry (scrollgirl)

One thing that I find works well with hard and dense wood such as that is to cover it with some clear packaging tape prior to cutting it. There is something about the glue in the tape that lubricates the blade and helps keep it a bit cooler. You also need to make sure that whatever bit/blade you use, it is extremely sharp. A dull blade will make a mess of it very quickly.

Good luck and be sure to share what you make with us. :)

Sheila

-- Contributing Editor, Creative Woodworks and Crafts, Sheila Landry Designs http://www.sheilalandrydesigns.com "Knowledge is Power"