We removed a railing in my house a few years back and I saved the basic glued-up Oak posts. I decided to try turning it, but knew the basic wood would be less than exciting. So before turning, I drilled three holes in one face, about half-way through, and turned plugs from Walnut, Padauk and Bloodwood scraps. After gluiong the plugs I took the post corners off with my table saw and then turned the beast. That Oak was tough, but happily the plugs stayed put and turned out kind of interesting. Not sure I like the final shape, but I do like the "dot" effect.
