"Ecnerwal" wrote in message
...
In article S%2jj.32431$fj2.17766@edtnps82,
"Darrell Feltmate" wrote:

I think if I was going to turn balsa I would thin out epoxy and use it as
hardener. On the other hand I would not turn balsa. I don't think. Maybe.

If any of the local kids ever pry themselves away from video screens and
make rockets, balsa turning is a useful skill. A light touch, and a good
deal of abrasive shaping/finishing - no hardener required. A few coats
of old-fashioned airplane dope for an excellent finish.

As far as I can tell, the "wood hardener" product that's a milky liquid
is exactly the same as, but more expensive than, waterbased acrylic wood
finish.


That's what our Science Olympiad team did, turned balsa for nose cones. I
had 'em start with bass and then eastern white cedar, which is brittle like
balsa. The best two had it down after a couple of each. What ended up the
best was a greased piece of bass with plastic heated over it to conform.
No, I didn't push any particular way as best. I know the rules!

Acrylics are water-soluble "bulkers" that keep fragile and brittle grain in
line, and limit the distortion of the piece.