On Fri, 06 Jul 2007 13:05:25 -0000, JD wrote:

I'm considering trying my hand at my first segmented turning but would
like to pick your brains before starting. I've a few questions....

I'm no expert, but I've made a few, and they all turned out pretty
good.

Where do you come up with the wood? I like the free stuff myself.

I like free too- one of my favorite segement projects was made from a
box of mesquite cutoffs that a guy sent me for the cost of shipping
after he installed a mesquite floor. They were little triangles, but
wood doesn't need to be big for segemented turnings.

Anyone have any favorite sources? I've a few cabinet shops local who
build solid wood cabinets, figured I could pick through their scrap
bins for pieces.

Try the flooring guys. Otherwise, yes, scrap bins from anywhere that
uses hardwood are a gold mine for what you're contemplating. I do
more flatwork than turning, so there's always plenty of scrap around
for me.

Does the wood need to be kiln dried?

I don't suppose it would have to be, but I don't think I'd personally
bother with trying to make a segemented turning out of wet wood.
There's a chance it would tear itself apart as it dries, and that's a
lot of time to invest for that to happen.

Can I use any combination of woods or is there a method to the
madness? Does various hardnesses matter?

They matter, but if you have a light touch, you should be able to mix
whatever you like. The only warning I have for you is that soft white
woods like aspen or basswood will pick up color from darker woods when
you sand it, and look sort of dirty. Better to use a hard light wood,
if you need it to stay bright.

Anyone have any favorite combinations?

What type glue do you recommend? I've seen the strength of regular
carpenters glue, is that good enough?

Carpenter's glue is fine. But don't jump the gun- you can usually
keep working after it tacks with flat work, but when you spin it on
the lathe, you really want to let it set up for 24-48 hours first.