I have some small but rather beautiful pieces of plum for turning stock. when I cut and plane these pieces the color is rich, highly contrasting bright purples through light buttery colors. Drying it is a pain in the derrier but that’s another issue. What I can’t accomplish is getting a finished turned piece to exhibit those fantastic colors as a completed piece.
Even leaving the wood with no finish it seems to oxidize (best way I can think of to describe it) to a muddled mixture of dull browns and deep reds. Tung oil enhances the contrast initially but it usually fades into the same dull state.
Is this the nature of the wood? Should I not be expecting to capture this vibrant color in the finished dried state of the wood?
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From Beautiful Skagit Co. Wa.
Dennis
From Beautiful Skagit Co. Wa.
Dennis
Replies
When you wipe it with mineral spirits, what color do you get? This will be the color you get with a clear finish.
I hadn't thought of that, Gretchen. But I have noticed that even the unfinished wood tends to go blah as it dries. Perhaps it's another windmill I'm chasing. Sure is pretty when it's wet, though............
From Beautiful Skagit Co. Wa.
Dennis
If you are saying that when the MS dries, it goes blah again, that is true, but ha nothing to do with what a finish will do. But when you put a finish on, it remains that color. Since it is a turned piece that I assume will not get any wear, I might suggest shellac. You have nothing to lose if you try shellac--easy to remove it that isn't the answer.Gretchen
I've yet to try shellac on any turning projects, Gretchen. Don't know why just never occured to me since most of my turned pieces are finished on the lathe with a type of friction finish of one sort or the other. But thanks for the suggestion - I'll give it a try............
From Beautiful Skagit Co. Wa.
Dennis
Finishing plum
Can I say Fart in here?
Dennis, This is Natures gift to you for accepting the offering, and being there to appreciate the moment. It is sad that everyone does not get to see what we get to see at this stage in the process.
I wish I could help you more, but I guess the best advice that can offer is to photograph it while it is fresh, because it will never be like this again.
Sorry. Keith
Thanks for the kind words, Keith. This, and all that nature has to offer is the reward for taking the time to look. ...........
From Beautiful Skagit Co. Wa.
Dennis
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