Question on River Red Gum

[John Altberg]

I have a line on some river red gum that has been rough cut into 4"x6"x6' pieces and waxed. Current owner has had it in this condition for three years. Not sure how old it is. Anyone ever turn this? If so, I would be interested in your thoughts.


Regards,

John

 

[Barry Richardson]

I've turned quite a bit, and used it for flat work as well. Its very hard when dry, but turns ok when wet. It is very unstable and moves, checks, and honeycombs alot when you try and dry it in slabs. but usually does ok as roughed out bowls, other that deforming quite a bit during drying. It takes a high polish, and a beeswing type figure is rather common to the wood. Here is a picture of a RRG bowl I turned a while back. It's about 10" dia. Barry

 

[GLENN ROBERTS]

John, the Australian grown River Red Gum when turned dry is very rewarding, particularly the burl or the wood close to burl where it doesn't have too many bark inclusions. It can be very nice, takes an oil finish well and polishes up well, at least that is what I have found. But I usually only turn very dry pieces. It can minmise the risk of problems.


You might find it hard, but in Australia we are use to that. Use good tools ( doug thompson etc) and keep them sharp. Small tip tools can be good as you can't take too large a cut. Don't be afraid to power sand to get a good surface, if burl etc, it can sometimes be the only way.
Hope this helps.