Al at Willow Vale Woodturning has recently begun experimenting with a technique which has the potential to greatly vary the look of the piece he's working on. It's referred to as "raising the grain" and involves heating the wood with the flame of a blow torch. This process chars the wood and darkens the grain so it becomes a more visible and prominent feature. It is especially effective on light colored woods such as ash, where there is a distinct yet subtle grain.
Working in a cleared and safe area (absolutely no wood shavings allowed here!), Al carefully passes a low flame across the item he's working on. This should be done with a smooth and sweeping motion. He avoids lingering for long in any one area so as not to allow the wood to catch fire. Once charred, Al has the option to fine tune the look he's created. Using steel wool or sandpaper, the degree of browning can be reduced for a softer or more subtle look. In those instances when a more dramatic look is preferred, Al simply gives the piece a quick and light sanding to smooth the texture, then finishes it off with salad bowl oil.
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Should you happen to look at the “events” tab on the Willow Vale Woodturning website, you will note that we participate in quite a few fairs. Craft fairs provide us with the very valuable experience of meeting many people who are interested in our wooden bowls. We have the opportunity to talk with them, ask questions, and hear their opinions, suggestions and stories. Believe me, it’s all great stuff! In return, we (ok, mostly Al) can answer their questions about wood types, finishes, inspirations and such. Their inquiries regarding woodturning cover many areas, but perhaps the one question that we hear the most often is “How long does it take to make a bowl?” Please allow As The Shavings Fly to provide a basic timeline for turning a wooden salad bowl.
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AuthorAs the Shavings Fly is a blog written by Jeanne Betournay Lanseigne, the wife and #1 supporter of wood turner Al Lanseigne Archives
September 2015
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