Steam bending exotics?

I’ve done steam bending on most of the domestic hardwoods, but the only exotic I’ve bent is purpleheart. It bends nicely, but will test your strength.

-- Tim -- http://tmuli.com

Thank you for the input Tim!

I’ve found that some of exotics tend to change in color extremely with steam bending and it made it harder to color match to the rest of the project (paduk)

-- I love this site !

I think that I would research the bending characteristics what you are thinking about bending.

It could save you a lot or time and trouble. Some things just won’t steam bend, period.

-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.

If in your research as Garry recommends you find the species won’t bend here is what I would suggest. Go with a domestic hardwood such as poplar and bend it to the desired shape. Following the bending process apply a veneer of your chosen exotic. This way you get the best of both worlds. Easy to match exotic wood and the shape you desire.

TTFN
Michael

-- Computer programmer by day, fine woodworker by night. Custom made joysticks for Console Systems and Personal Computers.