mesquite hollow form

[Robert McGowen]

A friend of mine needed an urn for a pet. He had a round dome-shaped disk that he wanted to incorporate into the project. There wasn't really any way to inset the disc, so it was decided to use it to cover the opening and it will be glued into place with a silicone glue to seal it. This will hopefully allow for any slight movement of the wood. Due to the disk being used at the top, it was decided to go with a "vase" design instead of a more traditional urn design. The part where the disk will attach was only sanded to 100 grit for better adhesion. The rest was sanded to 600 grit, which is the difference in color and obviously texture at the mouth.

On a side note, I do not have a hollowing rig or really even proper tools for this type of work. At one point I had a scraper, along with most of the handle, inside the mouth while I was hanging onto the last 2" of the handle with both hands. I can describe what "chattering" is if you need me to.

Mesquite, turned end grain, with a Danish oil finish and buffed after a week. 10" tall, 5" at the widest point, and 3" base. 1 5/8" opening at the top.

[Jude Kingery]

Robert,
Very nicely done! I like how you left some of the sapwood with heartwood mix; that blonde and coffee color looks nice together. It's fun working with Mesquite and you did a great job! I don't think you have to worry too much about movement, sometimes Mesquite will crack, but with a finish on I've never had it crack after that. Beautiful job. Jude

[Neal Addy]

Suuweeet, Robert!

Dontcha just luv Meskeet? You did it proud.

[Brad Schmid]

Well done Robert! I bet that was a challenge with a scraper.

[Cecil Arnold]

Nice work Robert. I've tried HFs with only scrapers and can see you really overcame the challenge.

[TYLER WOOD]

Most of the tool and handle inside the piece, only 2" of handle to hold?!:eek:
You have a much stronger grip than I do evidently!

Yup, a fine piece indeed. Ditto Jude, I love the sap/heartwood combo on mesquite. Just a great shape on the piece. the beloved pet will do fine in a beautiful vaaaaz.

Here I've been waiting on trying hf because I did not have hollowing tools. Never knew I just needed a scraper!:p

To all those who don't know, it is not recommended using a scraper that far over the tool rest. It is to say though that you take your own life in your hands when trying unusual stuff, and can get fine results. Even if it does scare the he double hockey sticks out of ya!

[Mark Cothren]

Very nice work, Robert - I'm sure your friend will be pleased.

[Steven Russell]

Hello from a fellow Texan!

Nice project Robert. I'm sure your friend will be pleased with your work. I turn Mesquite frequently and I really enjoy working with it. It is one of my favorite local timbers (local in Texan-ese anyway, which means anything within 500 miles or so). I have to go out San Antoino way to get Mesquite or up near Dallas, but it's always worth the trip. :D Good luck to you and all the best to you and yours!

[Bernie Weishapl]

That is one sweet looking piece. I'll bet that was one challenge with a scraper. I love turning mesquite. It will not move much if any. Well done Robert.

[Ken Fitzgerald]

Nice piece Robert.....especially knowing how you did it! Well done sir!

[Brett Baldwin]

I've been using a scraper moer than I like lately and I can only say well done with what you did with it.

[Dick Strauss]

robert,
You might want to slide a piece of pipe over the end of the scraper handle to keep the leverage from working against you.

Very nice piece by the way...


Dick

[Bill Wyko]

Nice job Robert. The pet will definitely RIP.

[Keith Burns]

Very nice Urn Robert !! I'm sure your friend will display it with pride and fond memories.