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View Full Version : How does Butternut turn?


Dave Dionne
11-29-2007, 1:25 PM
Somebody gave me some 8/4 and 10/4 butternut and I was wondering how it turns? Much tear out? Anything special I should know?

I thought I should ask since I do not have a lot of experience turning anything but pens so when and if theis comes flying apart I like to know if it was pilot error? (did I fly me plane inot the side of the mountain) Or is it the nature of the beast.

Thanks in advance Dave
Don Orr
11-29-2007, 1:37 PM
It's a nice looking wood, but kind of soft. The grain will lift some if your tools are not super sharp. Sands easily but also scratches easily. Make sure to clean the piece thoroughly between grits. Kind of a coarse texture, but not like oak.

Have fun!
Ed Scolforo
11-29-2007, 2:48 PM
Like butter :p
John Hart
11-29-2007, 2:49 PM
Like butter :p

What a Nut! :p
Jim Becker
11-29-2007, 2:54 PM
Butternut is CLOSELY related to walnut and should turn similarly outside of being a little softer as already mentioned. It's sometimes referred to as "white walnut". Sharp tools a good idea, in other words.
Bernie Weishapl
11-29-2007, 3:14 PM
What the other said. Turns great but need sharp tools. Watch the sanding as Don said.
Allen Neighbors
11-29-2007, 6:20 PM
Round 'n round. Sorry. Couldn't resist.
What they said... White Walnut AKA beautiful wood! Sharpen up, and go for it!
Paul Engle
11-29-2007, 8:48 PM
What Allen said .....:rolleyes:
Julie Tanner
11-29-2007, 9:42 PM
can someone post a pic of 2 so we can see what butternut looks like ??
Dave Dionne
11-30-2007, 11:58 AM
I may use this to try an inside out vase.

Thanks again

Dave
Jim Underwood
11-30-2007, 2:29 PM
Butternut. I'd love to have some. It's in decline for some reason I forget. A disease I think. Many stands of it were dead before folks knew what was going on.

It's treasured by chip carvers because it's easy to cut, but still leaves crisp detail.

I know I can't get any from a local supplier...
Dave Dionne
11-30-2007, 2:44 PM
My local supplier has lots up to at leat 12/4 not as good as my freebies but I will get more if this works out well for me.
TYLER WOOD
11-30-2007, 4:11 PM
how does butternut turn? well it ain't got legs, wheels, or other mobile abilities. So I guess with man power.

I know I know.......I'll go to the corner now.