Ebony

[RobC]

Just a quick one ....... How does ebony behave on the lathe ? I've only done hand carving using ebony and know it's hard graft, just wondering how it behaves on the lathe before thinking of a new project. Thanks in advance.

 

[RogerP]

I'm not a turner but I do use a lathe. I've turned many ebony finials, pediments and other small items for furniture and found it very easy BUT... the dust and mess from the stuff! Make sure you wear a good mask and have good ventilation and don't mind black dust everywhere.

 

[Bodrighy]

It turns well as said but is dirty stuff. Easy to get a fabulous finish but can have a tendency to break off bits if you don't use sharp tools.

Pete

 

[Phil Pascoe]

Think about blackwood? It's wonderful to turn.

 

[RobC]

Thank you very much for the replies, all taken on board

Blackwood is another favourite of mine. The wife's favourite wood is ebony, so I have to do something with ebony :lol:

 

[NickWelford]

You can sand ebony with wet and dry paper used wet. Either with water, wax or oil. Keeps the dust down and gives a good finish

 

[JimB]

My son planes ebony for violin finger boards and he damps it occasionally.

 

[RobC]

Thanks again for the replies guys.

 

[woodfarmer]

This may be heresy :0 but black acetal turns beautifully using a spindle gouge, with a finish you dont really need to touch. And comparatively cheap. No dust either, just yards of black curly shavings .

 

[JimB]

This may be heresy :0 but black acetal turns beautifully using a spindle gouge, with a finish you dont really need to touch. And comparatively cheap. No dust either, just yards of black curly shavings .

Definitely heretical and should be burned at the stake but wood's for turning not burning. :twisted: