Silver Birch

[MMUK]

Is silver birch any good for turning? I only ask because I have a silver birch that needs trimming to get rid of some overhanging weight and it'd be a shame to burn it. How long would it need to stand before turning?

I should have my lathe mid week so I can start on some offcuts I have in the garage already.

 

[blackrodd]

There should be a few tips, on u tube, on drying the smaller stuff in the microwave.
When no one is about! Regards Rodders

 

[MMUK]

There should be a few tips, on u tube, on drying the smaller stuff in the microwave.
When no one is about! Regards Rodders

Cheers Rodders. As it happens I have a spare microwave in the loft, quite a large one. May have to make it a permanent addition to the workshop. At least then I can keep a mini freezer with the Pukka pies in to hand :lol:

 

[CHJ]

Suggest you type Silver Birch into the search box above.

 

[Woodmonkey]

Birch is nice to turn, quite soft and cuts easily, although the grain is normally bit boring ie quite plain.

 

[monkeybiter]

I seem to remember someone saying silver birch rots sooner than other woods so may need some precautions when storing?

 

[Random Orbital Bob]

Birch turns beautifully especially when still green. Great "linguine" style shavings...absolute pleasure. I suggest you turn to within 10% of final desire while wet then dry (faster that way) Seal the ends and store in cool dry place. The grain can be a little dull mind so its good for colouring.

 

[Tazmaniandevil]

I got hold of a pile of silver birch in summer 2012, a lot of which I rough turned into bowls and packed away with wet shavings in Primark paper bags. (top tip #6535456551 - collect a lot of these bags for storing rough turned bowl blanks)
Try to get a uniform thickness in your rough turned items and stick them on a shelf for a couple of months. Remember to write the date on the bag with your trusty sharpie.
The birch is nice to turn and good practice for finding your bevel as it is quite forgiving. Always wear a good quality mask though because the dust can be a bit insidious.