To say WTF is a minimum, however one of my new Rosewood Totes developed a slight crack AFTER being shaped and treated with BLO.
QUESTION: Is there any way to tell, or otherwise determine what totes/knobs will crack after shaping? I hate to throw away $$$ after spending so much time shaping and finishing… Surely there is/are methods to prevent this, right?
The Rosewood came encased in wax 2×2x8 and was sawn and cut within one week of first cut. Two or four totes show cracks (NOT stress cracks) after being sized and finished with BLO.
If it was in wax, then it almost certainly was not dry. Usually wood is encased in wax or anchorseal while still wet. If just the ends are waxed, then there's a better chance it's dry, or at least drier, but you still need to let it acclimate to your shop for a few weeks to a month.
OK Don, I hate to admit or even think about it, BUT you are probably correct. It sure pisses me off though, with such a nice tote cracking (even though it is tight and minor) after all the work that went into it. GRrr…
Wax on all sides Rich… BLO immediately after turning and cutting totes/knobs… Totes in question are still solid and strong, though not what we all strive for for sure…
@shampiom,
Yeah I might try that. I did save some Rosewood sawdust, and besides, I picked up a couple more pieces of Rosewood from WC this weekend. I actually did one fill with TightBond III and the RW sawdust already. Sure makes you knee-jerk after all the labor of love you have put into it. Just saying…
May be off track but I seem to remember someone freezing the timber first, then thawing at workshop temp for a week, then turning it. Dont know if this helps or not but it would keep moisture content equal.
Rich,
Isn't that true of nearly all finishes as well? They just "slow up" the rate of change of the moisture in the wood.
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