On 6/22/2012 5:42 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






vic - I live in southern CA, don't leave it alone, you will have
firewood. turn it a bit oversized, turn the hole in the center a bit
undersized, then put it in a paper bag so it dries slowly. If you were
making a bowl or something, I'd say turn it to finish size right away
and then let it warp and dry, but your project will have thick walls.
Boiling for a few hours helps prevent cracking. If the wood has no
pith, it will probably not crack.

there are plenty of wood turning clubs - one may be near you - you can
find me though my web site, wbnoble.com should you want to follow up.