Rosewood bowl blanks are a coveted material among woodturners, offering a combination of stunning aesthetics, desirable working properties, and a touch of luxury to their creations. But before diving into the world of crafting with rosewood, understanding the different types, their characteristics, and working considerations is crucial.
Unveiling the Rosewood Family: A Spectrum of Choices
Rosewood isn't a single wood species, but rather a broad term encompassing various Dalbergia trees. When it comes to bowl blanks, two main types are commonly encountered:
(a) East Indian Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia): This widely available variety boasts a warm color palette, ranging from golden brown to deep purple-brown, with occasional streaks of black. Its density and hardness make it a dream to turn, offering smooth cuts and a beautiful polished finish.
(b) Santos Rosewood (Dalbergia santosii): This South American rosewood is known for its exceptional figure, characterized by swirling grain patterns and contrasting hues. While slightly less common than East Indian, it provides a unique aesthetic for bowls.
Beyond Aesthetics: Properties that Make Rosewood Shine
Apart from their visual appeal, rosewood bowl blanks possess several characteristics that make them a favorite among woodturners:
(a) High Density and Hardness: This translates to excellent stability, resistance to warping and cracking, and the ability to hold fine details during turning.
(b) Polishes Beautifully: Rosewood takes well to various finishing techniques, achieving a high gloss with a rich, warm luster.
(c) Natural Oils: Rosewood contains natural oils, offering a degree of moisture resistance and a pleasant, earthy aroma during the turning process.
Working with Rosewood: Tips for Success
While working with rosewood is generally considered rewarding, a few key points to remember:
(a) Sharp Tools are Essential: Due to its hardness, using well-honed tools ensures clean cuts and minimizes chipping.
(b) Dust Control is Crucial: Rosewood dust can be irritating, so proper dust collection and respirator use are recommended.
(c) Drying and Acclimatization: As with any wood, proper drying and acclimatization to your workshop environment are crucial to prevent warping and cracking.
With its captivating beauty, exceptional working characteristics, and a touch of exotic elegance, rosewood is a compelling choice for woodturners seeking to create heirloom-quality bowls. By understanding the different types, their properties, and working considerations, you can embark on your rosewood turning journey with confidence and create pieces that will be cherished for generations to come.
Where to Find Rosewood Bowl Blanks?
Exotic Wood Zone, is a reputable vendor who provides a huge number of exotic premium wood at its best qualities and also prioritizes sustainable sourcing practices.
