Looking for a few Tasmanian Myrtle Burl blanks

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Jim Nugent

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Aug 4, 2019
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Keller, TX
Since I'm picking up some sweet FP and RB kits from Larry (Thanks again!), I want to take a crack at some higher end products. Any help or thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks.
 
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mark james

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Jim, I'm not at my house until Sunday PM, but I do know I have at least one "block" about 3" x 3" x 2" of a Tasmanian Burl. I don't believe it is Myrtle, possible Tasmanian Oak Burl, or a variety of Eucalyptus. It does have cracks, so I suspect it would make nice blanks if cast in a colored PR/Alumilite. These would be shorter blanks, but at 3" should do fine for 1 or 2 blank kits.

When I get home I'll check and send you a picture for you to consider.

You are a newer member and I'm not sure of your turning experience (Please, no offense intended). I would not suggest these subsequent blanks (possibly 6) as "beginner fare" and really suggest they be cast to fill the voids, or you be mindful or turning blanks with questionable "explosive potential for excitement). I do believe the wood is extremely hard.

I'll remember to do this on Sunday.

This is what a pen would look like from a similar block.
 

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Jim Nugent

Member
Joined
Aug 4, 2019
Messages
61
Location
Keller, TX
No offense taken, Mark. I have only been turning for a few months, but I know the value of sharp tools and prior study of a blank before slamming a carbide or roughing gouge into it. I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks! Jim Nugent
 

greenacres2

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May 2, 2017
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Northwest IN
Jim,
I took a quick look at my "Tasmanian Burl Box" this morning, and saw one piece of Myrtle near the top. Quick measure was 1" x 1.5" x 5.25". Very rough cut and not showing well from the outside--but it came from Richard Kleinhenz before he passed away, so i'd not hesitate to guess it to reveal good "innards". May be another piece or 2 in that box--can check tonight when i get home.
earl
 

greenacres2

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Northwest IN
Depending on what Mark comes up with, here's a few pics of the two pieces Tasmanian Myrtle Burl i have in the shop. Labelled by Rich, so i have a high degree of confidence in the ID. Have a better piece of red mallee burl, along with a few really nice pieces of eucalyptus burl as well.
@ Mark--that's a great looking blank and the pen is outstanding!!
earl
Taz Myrtle Burl 1.jpgTaz Myrtle Burl 2.jpgTaz Myrtle Burl 3.jpg
 

Jim Nugent

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Aug 4, 2019
Messages
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Location
Keller, TX
Earl: I would also be interested in your red mallee and perhaps your eucalyptus as well. Could you send me some pictures and an idea of prices? I am out of town through the weekend, but can occasionally check email. Thanks.
 

greenacres2

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May 2, 2017
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Northwest IN
Hey Jim--PM me your e-mail address and i'll be able to send the larger version to you. Here's a teaser of the Red Mallee. Each is about 1.75 square, so they can cut into 4 mated blanks each for pen/pencil or RB/FP pairs. Despite the numbering, in the time i've had those 3, i can't find the mating lines in the blocks. #9 has probably been in my hands 40 or 50 times--but i can't reconcile cutting it!! I've got a few of those--just cut into one this morning that i've had since i started--and the inspiration finally hit today.
earl

Red Mallee 1.jpg
 

mark james

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Sep 6, 2012
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Medina, Ohio
I'm still at my In-Laws. Will be home on Sunday. Hopefully I'll remember to remember where I left my notes for what I should remember to do... Dementia sucks, I think! :eek:
 
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