I'd get some coating on the wood soon. You want a slow cure process.

There are professional wood drying operations - see if you can find one.

The boards might twist or cup or anything. Let it settle down and dry
out and the internal forces might settle out.

Martin

On 6/22/2012 7:42 PM, Vic Baron wrote:
ok - bought a 6x6x14 piece of figured maple online. Was supposed to be
12% moisture content. Piece arrived - it is beautiful but it's 38%
moisture.

What I am turning is two bases roughly 6x6x6 that will be the base for
hurricane lamps. There will be a 3" diameter x 4" deep hole I the center
for the lamp oil cannister.

I've read several similar threads relating to bowls, etc but nothing
this thick.

What is the best way to proceed?

I live in So California so it gets quite warm and dry in the summer. The
wood is unwrapped and is not waxed.

Should leave the piece whole and let it air dry?

Should I cut it into two 6x6x7 pieces and let them air dry? Put each
piece in the mwave before turning?

Should I cut them and rough turn them including drilling the 3" hole?

Really confused. Hate to wind up with a big piece of firewood.

Any suggestions appreciated - am really puzzled.

Thanx,

Vic