Replies

1. 
   saschafer | May 05, 2008 07:36pm | #1

   The structure of bamboo is that of very tough fibers embedded in a softer matrix. For that reason, planing and any other kind of slicing-along-the-grain cutting can be problematic, as the grain really, really wants to tear out. And you need to back up your crosscuts, because, once again, the grain really, really wants to tear out.

   Did I mention that the grain really, really wants to tear out? Sanding works well, though.

   -Steve

    

1. 
   harrycu | May 05, 2008 07:45pm | #2

   Someone also said the grain on bamboo really, really wants to tear out. ;^)Harry

   Following the path of least resistance makes rivers and men crooked.

2. 
   pzaxtl | May 06, 2008 05:36am | #3

   I don't know if anyone has advised you of this, but, the grain of bamboo wants to really, really tear out.

    

    

   Sorry, couldn't resist.

1. 
   TBMS | May 06, 2008 05:05pm | #5

   Hmm. I get the impression that bamboo really wants to tear out! Thanks for the info!

3. 
   Jamie_Buxton | May 06, 2008 07:50am | #4

   If you rip or edge-joint it so you have a nice sharp edge, and then you ding it somehow, you can easily raise a nasty splinter.   Use gloves while you're machining it.   If you hit it with a 1/16" radius roundover bit, the splinter hazard gets down to that of wood.