Birch tree – lots of turning stock
In central Montana where I live there isn’t much for native hardwoods (cottonwood and some aspen). And wood in general is expensive. However, there are city trees. I have been watching some of the weeping birch trees dry in town. I missed one by hours one day, as it went to the chipper. However, I saw one today that someone had trimmed away all the dead limbs and only the 10′ bole remained standing (20″ diameter). I knocked on the door and asked if I could have the tree and they said yes. So, for the small cost of renting a larger chainsaw ($20), I have a fresh supply of bowl material and other turning stock. The tree was killed by bugs and it appears that some of it is ambrosia coloring. I know in many parts of the country this would be no big deal but it is a big score for me. I sealed all the ends. It is time to fire up the bandsaw and lathe and start turning.
I probably have more than I can use, however, the local turning club meets on Tuesday, probably time to share the wealth.
Replies
Very cool, PH. Like you, I hate to see good WW'ing trees go to the chipper or the fireplace. Have fun!
I'd recommend also putting it in plastic bags. I've had birch split up on me real bad.
if you band saw your blanks first, then it will take up less storage space.
Any suggestions on what shapes to cut the log? Anything to avoid? I have a 5" diameter apple branch. I'm trying to figure out what it wants to be.
In my experience apple branch wood moves a lot drying.So If you leave it in the round you should consider turning and finishing while it is wet i .e. hollow form. If you are going to be a while , rip it through the heart and wax the ends.Then it won't split radially
PH, Nice find. I just got a few feet of a tree my parents had taken down. Birch is nice wood to turn and the color difference from the heart to sapwood makes for some really attractive bowl. Check it well for any bugs that may have bored in and are hiding on you. Don't need them in the shop with you.
My log was only about 6" diameter and these bowls are about 5" across and 2" to 3" high.
pheasant,
nice score. is that paper bark birch, as in, the bark used for writing paper in by-gone days? here in so. calif i sometimes see a similar tree, often grown as an ornamental.
eef
Nice find.. Looks like a huge Birch here in the midwest USA,, And then again you said a "weeping birch" Not sure what that is ..
I for one wish you the best with your find..
PH:
Enjoy your find. Each piece will certainly be an adventure. Our city municipality removes storm damaged trees and such and takes them to a recycling center. There you can enter with a chain saw and cut for hours.It has been the source for a ton of spalted maple, cherry and other local hardwoods. It is a great free source for turning material.
Good Luck
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