Second log better

Sometimes you just have to work with what you have got. On this occasion I decided that the billets I got from the first log involved too much work. Luckily, I have a second log to work with.

It's got much straighter grain......always a bonus when you're looking for straight framing members!

It couldn't have split much better.

There's a small amount of transit damage, but if I get straight boards from the rest of the cake, I'm happy.

Split off the sapwood and a little side axe work, then it's off to the bench for planing.

Wedges in.

Two new logs arrived yesterday. 19" of heartwood, so not so wide, but should get the rails and stiles for the next cupboard, all being well.

Then it started to rain. Take shelter.

Watch the garden get wet and the log get used to the idea that it's going to split.

 Not a bad first split. Just need to chop through the few fibres that are still holding on.

It's worth pointing out, if you are going to try this for the first time; never put your fingers into the split until the two halves are completely severed. Wedges can pop out, and the two halves can snap shut.

Then into quarters.

Oh dear, what's this hiding inside.

No problem, 6 long billets and 2 short.

 

Here we go again.

Devon Open Studios

Opening my home workshop for Devon Open Studios 9-24th September. Come and say hello.