Got several 4 inch plus diameter Sumac trees in the woods behind the house. Has anyone tried turning Sumac ? How did it work out ?
Got several 4 inch plus diameter Sumac trees in the woods behind the house. Has anyone tried turning Sumac ? How did it work out ?
I trimmed out some about the same size as yours this Spring. It turns easily but I don't really like it much. Huge pith, wide growth rings, very soft. Interesting color though. I turned a quick clunky goblet out of a piece to show my turning club as a wood ID quiz. Most of them knew it easily. I believe it also fluoresces under blacklight. Give it a go and see for yourself, what is there to lose. Have Fun!
BTW, I assume you are talking about Staghorn Sumac or other substantial species, and not Poison Sumac which does not grow very large.
Happy and Safe Turning, Don
Woodturners make the world go ROUND!