Velvet Mesquite Tree Trunk on the Lathe

in woodworking •  7 years ago 

Finally getting around to turning this tree trunk.

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It was the only one small enough for me to lift into the bed of my truck.

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I sealed the ends with latex paint, but it cracked anyways.

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The heartwood was bright orange when it was fesh cut, but after a year of seasoning, it developed a rich purple hue.

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I tried to rough out a shape that would save some of the sapwood.

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As I started to hollow it, I decided I had to do something to control the cracks.

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Going with some dovetail keys.

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Still a bunch more to do, then I will put some finish on.

See ya,
Skycranehandwork

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Thats a big ol lathe

Nicely done gluing those dovetails/splines in place. Look great.

Thanks, they should keep it from spinning apart.

Man that was a great idea with the dovetails. I like the way you cut a tapered on too that is a very good technique. That grain is going to pop with some oil on it.

Thanks, saves the trouble of cutting each key.

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good to see you back young man....... love the wood turning......howz things in the desert world.....

Thanks, don’t know where the time went.

Desert ironwoods in bloom.

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