finishing box elder

[Rifleman1776]

I acquired some nice box elder, with lots of red in it, some time ago in a trade. A couple days ago I made my first pen from it and the results were dissapointing. This, obviously, is a very soft wood, almost like red cedar. Sanding left open areas in the grain that don't look good at all. I did complete the pen, a European, but put it in my 'bargin box' at a low price, along with my failed duck calls. Does box elder need stabilizing to be turned and finished properly? Right now, I'm not inclined to turn any more because of this experience.

 

[wayneis]

It depends Frank on the wood itself, some is hard enough by itself. The rest I would stabilize somehow, either via Steve White or maybe by adding CA yourself.

Wayne

 

[Ryan]

I just finished some red box elder I got from Rich and the stuff is great. I did use a lot of ca glue toward the final cuts. I used the thin so it would soak in. I did not even get any tear out this way. I also left everything a little proud and sanded it with 150 grit to the final shape.

Ryan