Replies

1. 
   user-67934 | Dec 18, 2008 12:40am | #1

   You can machine soapstone with carbide tools. A while back FineHomebuilding had an article on do it yourself kitchen counters out of soapstone. I ordered the sample box of 10 or so different colors and styles of soapstone. Soapstone is soft and will ding easily by your wedding ring when you slap your palm on it. The soapstone samples had different degrees of hardness. As a test, I ran them over a bit in the router table to see how they machine. I'll have to say I was pleased with the result. One or two of the harder ones threw sparks, so I would think twice before running dust collection on those. As an aside, I'm going to do concrete countertops instead.

2. 
   PaulMassachusetts | Dec 18, 2008 01:17am | #2

   Some soapstone has asbestos in it.

1. 
   northhouguy | Dec 18, 2008 03:23am | #3

   Paul,

   Yes, you are correct.  It can also have copper sulfate and other nasties in it.

   I've been told that soapstone can be purchased that is free of these contaminates.  But that might not be true, and how could one test for them anyway?

   You've given me something to think about and I appreciate it.

   If I decide to proceed I'll look real hard at my dust collection plan and what personal protective equipment is required.

3. 
   MikeHennessy | Dec 18, 2008 03:44pm | #4

   Short answer (for soapstone, anyway), yes.

   Look here: http://www.vermontsoapstone.com/soapstone_installation.asp

   Mike Hennessy
   Pittsburgh, PA

4. 
   Woodguy48 | Jan 06, 2009 05:09am | #5

   I have used standard steel hand tools to shape alabaster. It works well and has great light transfer characteristics. I can be cut rather thin for lamp shades etc. It seems a little harder than soapstone and comes in several colors. It is fun to work but you have to watch for fractures in some pieces.

   A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing.

   George Bernard Shaw