[Woodcarver] Wood Mold & Pear Trees

[Jean Athey]

Hello carvers,
I've been off the list for awhile. Glad to be back.

Two questions:
I've been given a 4x4x10 piece of beautiful curly
mango from Hawaii. Unfortunately, the gift spent two
weeks wrapped in bubble wrap and a plastic bag. It is
full of surface (I hope) mold. Any ideas how I can
treat it? I don't know how seasoned it is, it was
purchased from a custom furniture dealer in Hawaii, so
doubt it's too old. I'll seal the ends once I can see
them!  

Secondly, a neighbor has cut down a large ornamental
pear tree. I've scavenged sections of trunk and
branches because I've heard how nicely pear carves,
but don't know if ornamental pear is good for carving.
Anybody had experience with it or have an opinion?

Thanks,
Jean Athey
Avila Beach, CA

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