[Woodcarver] Re:Ron Ramsey's mantel

[Ramsey]

Hi Maura,

I started with a 20" diameter by 9' long Port Orford cedar log.  I 
had three sides milled so that it was 12" thick and 12" deep.  I ran 
the top surface of the mantel and the bottom surface of the the top 
off cut through the jointer.  I then laminated the matched grain back 
on the top for the fish and the rocks that protrude above the 
surface.   The raccoon is a separate piece that will be laminated to 
the top.  I sometimes laminate and sometimes use solid timbers. It 
depends on the application. It's difficult to find solid logs that 
are dry and then to find ones that are not severely checked.  A log 
this size takes 3 to 5 years to dry even in my dry climate. 
Laminating is more stable. Timbers tend to have cracks but laminating 
leaves seams showing because the color and grain don't match.

There will be more to this project over the next few weeks.  The 
mantel wraps around the fireplace so there will be carved returns and 
carved posts supporting the mantel.
http://www.picturetrail.com/telecarver

Ron Ramsey
http://www.carvedbyramsey.com


>That is absolutely wonderful work   Ron.  The fish look  alive.  The rocks

>also look great.  Tell me the size of the original  stock please and type of

>wood.  Do you use solid timber or do you  laminate.  Advantages and 

>disadvantages

>please.  Thanks




>Maura carvin'  in  nyc

>http://www.carvinginNYC.com

>http://www.picturetrail.com/carvinginnyc

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