I impulse-bought a banksia pod at the hardwoods store the other day and turned part of it into a bottle stopper. The seed holes were filled with CA and coffee grounds and the dozens of other tiny voids and cracks were filled with CA. The finish is two coats of spar varnish.
The stuff was sure interesting to turn. Had to stop a lot to stabilize voids with CA, and roughing the thing to round was downright painful from all the flying bits and pieces hitting my hand as I guided the gouge. I had a very ugly catch when parting it off and am thankful that I wear a face shield...It would've been painful. Next time I'll be cutting it to the desired length on the bandsaw before turning.
I like how the coffee turned out. It is a perfect color match but the seed holes are still very defined, which I wanted. I thought about epoxy and am glad I didn't go that route now that it is done.
I'd love to hear some critiques/feedback on the piece. Shape, scale, etc.