[Woodcarver] Mixing wood species in a carving

[Victor Hamburger]

Bing Wrote:

I am looking to mix woods, and on my new project I need to connect several 
woods.  So the body is black walnut. The leg covers are white I am
looking at basswood or another very white wood. the cape is zebra wood and
the head dress is going to be ebony or an another dark wood, to the point of
black. Now I have to effectively join woods, in the past not a problem, but
I know I am weak on the subject. Does any one know any good books on the subject 
or WebPages on line with info?
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Bing,

I would recommend Dr. Bruce Hoadley's books on "Understanding Wood" and perhaps 
also his book, "Identifying woods", both from Taunton Press.   Dr Hoadley is a 
world class expert on woods, and had a great deal if information in his books 
that will help you.  I believe the first book talks about differences in 
shrinkage and expansion of different woods, as some sprecies work together 
better than others.  They are about $40 each, so try through your local library 
exchange to get a copy to read.  BTW, Dr. Hoadley is a carver besides, so he 
touches on that subject as well and has examples in his books.

	Vic

PS: Also look into segmented wood turning books for lathe workers, they are very 
concious of gluing up dissimilar woods and having them disassemble at high spped 
just as they are finishing a turning!