[Woodcarver] Water/alcohol 50/50 mixture

[Joe Dillett]

> << need to add a little rubbing alcohol as it soften the
> fibers
>
> Bill >>
> +++++++++++
> O YAH!!!SURE heard THAT before !!!!!!!!!
>
>
> The water softens the fiber.
> YUP!! Thats what I use!!! Best drink ever
>
>  The alcohol aids the water in penetrating
> deeper into the wood.
> WOOD??? What wood ??
> I know I am DUTCH but I do not (repeat NOT ) have a wooden head
>
>  Rip
>
>                                     Woodbutcher Jan
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Another benefit of 50/50 alcohol and water is making very soft wood more
carvable, especially on endgrain. The soft fibers of the wood absorb the
alcohol and water expanding, offering more stability and a better chance for
cutting the fibers without crushing them. This was very helpful for me in
carving a large cypress statue where the endgrain, on the top of the
shoulders, had very soft sap wood. The water/alcohol mixture made it easer
to slice the endgrain without crushing it.

Not to mention an opportunity to squirt your buddy.

Joe Dillett
The Carving Shop
645 E. LaSalle St. Suite 3
Somonauk, IL. 60552
(815) 498-9290 phone
(815) 498-9249 fax
http://www.thecarvingshop.com
jdillett at thecarvingshop.com
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