Pacific Yew and Ebony modified slimline

[NGLJ]

As a follow up to my previous post (https://www.penturners.org/threads/a-fruitful-chance-encounter.179517/) I have now made use of the Pacific Yew that I fortunately obtained. I really like the color of Yew and I also like to use contrasting woods, in this case Ebony on the ends. Yew often has knots, but, if you can cope with the knots. it adds grain interest. Please see the attached. The kit is Rose Gold.

 

[KenB259]

It's beautiful, but be careful. I have heard yew wood is highly toxic.

 

[Drewby108]

Ingestion/inhalation are the dangerous avenues of absorbtion. Touch is generally harmless. So as long as you wear a good respirator and wash your hands before touching your face or food, you'll be ok. (This is info based on what I remember from trying to get yew for some harry potter wands. Been a few years, so feel free to correct any mistakes)

 

[NGLJ]

I am well aware of the potential toxicity, which is well documented. Fortunately Pacific Yew is one of the Yew's with the least toxicity. It is quite safe to handle the wood but then don't touch sensitive areas like lips, eyes, etc.., and always wash hands afterwards. As with all woods, sawdust is probably the worst, and care is needed when sanding. Interestingly, I have had the most obvious reaction when cutting Arbutus, which made my eyes itch.