A nice lady in Nashville just had a fairly large Box Elder cut down, and asked our club to help remove the wood so it wouldn't go to waste. This tree has flames in every piece. I got about 6 10"-18" diameter sections home last night, and painted the ends. But how do I best keep the fire going after turning? This tree's color is pretty impressive (stressed, no doubt), although I did not notice any bug intrusions. The color was oxidizing out after only a few hours from felling. Suggestions, please.
I think I want to rough turn and wrap in shrink wrap to keep the outside from breathing. Then store away from light until I re-turn. And after re-turning, use Spar Varish (Varathane Polyyurethane by Rustoleum) to help inhibit UV degradation. Is this a good plan?