[Woodcarver] moisture content of basswood

[Dennis Moor]

Hi Marcia (& John too):
 
*Ideal moisture content is 10 to 12% for carving.
*Air dried basswood is not always easier to carve.
*Lighter color (whiter) basswood is not caused by air or kiln drying.
The color is largely determined by how soon the tree is cut into planks
after it is felled.  The longer it sits before sawing, the less white it
will be.  Color is also determined by geographical location:  ideal and
whitest is from Ohio north to Southern Ontario/S. Michigan.  Soil
condition can make a small difference in the color of the wood as well.
*Woodcraft stocks kiln dried due to consistency and timely delivery.
 
Hope that helps.
Dennis Moor    Chipping Away ... We Deliver Fun!
<http://www.chippingaway.com/> www.chippingaway.com
Have you checked out the International 2004 Carver's Conference ... you
can't miss this one!
 <http://www.chippingaway.com/>  

-----Original Message-----
From: Marcia Berkall [mailto:whitwood at pivot.net] 
Sent: July 27, 2004 10:29 PM
To: Woodcarver at six.pairlist.net
Subject: [Woodcarver] moisture content of basswood


OK...I have a question...

I have located some basswood but it is still not dry. I'm told it is now
at between 16 and 20% moisture content.  What is the ideal range for
carving?  I was told that I could have it kiln dried to whatever
percentage I want.  Any suggestions?

Thanks,

Marcia (aka Mush) Berkall
South China, Maine







Visit Marcia's  Whittlins 'n Wood  web site at:

http://www.pivot.net/~whitwood

http://community.webshots.com/user/cahvah













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