[Woodcarver] Re: teak

[Ramsey]

Hi Wynne.

I've carved  teak extensively.  I worked on a 135'  three masted 
schooner in Italy where I did a number of carvings as well as deck 
and finish work in teak. I don't find it to be particularly hard. 
It's a little harder than mahogany and softer than maple or oak.  It 
takes detail fairly well but it's necessary to take more care as it 
tends chip fairly easily.  It is also very abrasive to tools as it 
has silica imbedded in the wood fibers.  It can be problematic to 
glue because of the natural oils in the wood.  It is necessary to cut 
the oils with a solvent prior to gluing.
-- 
Ron Ramsey
http://www.carvedbyramsey.com


Be sure to look at the incredible nature inspired art jewelry hand 
fabricated by my wife, Karen Olsen Ramsey.  It's worth the time to 
take a look!
http://www.artjeweler.com