Amboyna Burl

Signed-In Members Don't See This Ad
S

Souths1der

Member
Joined
Jan 13, 2015
Messages
40
Location
SW Suburbs of Chicago
I'm turning an Amboyna Burl blank for the first time. The blank had a coating or something on it that must have brought out the reds and oranges because after turning its lost most of its coloring. I was planning on a CA finish. Is there something I should put on first (BLO maybe) that would bring the color back out before going through my CA regimen? Maybe just the CA would do it, but having never worked with this wood I don't know. Any help or ideas are appreciated.
 
Signed-In Members Don't See This Ad
It was probably sealed with anchorseal. Wipe it with DNA and see if the color comes back. The DNA will evaporate but will give you a good indication of what it will look like after doing your CA finish.
 
Chris' suggestion to try some DNA is a good one .... should give you a good idea of what it will look like when the CA is applied.

I think you will find that the wood will look better once the CA is put on it. I would suggest that you start with at least 2 or 3 coats of thin CA to start with. You can continue with more coats of thin or progress to medium CA. I am thinking that the initial coats of thin will tend to penetrate and bring out the color better than if you go straight to medium.

I have only a little experience with amboyna burl and I have found that it can do some funny things. For example, I turned and sanded an amboyna burl pen about 3 weeks ago but haven't put any finish at all on it yet. It has developed a slightly whitish coating ... which fortunately wipes off. I guess I should finish it off soon.

Good luck ! Post a picture of yours when you're done !
 
Last edited:
robertkulp said:
I'll occasionally turn a blank round and then finish it or part of it to see what it looks like. It's also an opportunity to experiment with different finishing techniques for that material. Once I figure out what I like, i'll turn it down to size and then finish it with the method I liked the best.
Click to expand...

I like this idea. I'll have to remember it for next time. I have already turned it to final dimensions. I'm still fairly new at this stuff so I really appreciate all the great information you guys are providing me.
 
jttheclockman said:
If it were me I would use BLO (boiled linseed oil) and let it dry and then top coat with CA. The oils will bring out the grain and color it a bit.
Click to expand...

Or a thin coat of BLO rub it in and follow with two layers of thin CA. The BLO will act as an accelerant to the CA. Then a thin coat of BLO rub in then two more coats of CA repeat as many times as you want. I finish with a plastic polish. This is how I finish my pens Just my 2 cents
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom