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Just Forkin Around - What Comes Next?

1131 Views 10 Replies 7 Participants Last post by  rockslinger, 
Sofreto
When I first joined the forum, I did not care for naturals. after seeing many of the naturals from many of you, especially Chepo and Bob, I decided that I wanted to try my hand at it. This is the first attempt.

So this past weekend I drove the 90 miles to the local mountains and picked up three forks. The outside, I believe are Oak and the middle one is manzanita.

So, I have read a lot on the forum about drying the wood both naturally and in the microwave, and everyone has a little different approach (that's OK)...Some say dry six weeks, others a year. Same with the microwave...lots of differing opinions. How do I know when they are ready?

So my question is this. What is the next step I should take with these forks in order to get them to a state where I can work on one?

Thanks in advance for your comments and suggestions.

Cheers,

Sofreto

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tomshot123
I have only dried my next natural for 2 and a half weeks but I guess it is only softwood...
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akmslingshots
there is no right or wrong way ive found to drying, unless your splitting it to laminate then its bone dry or it may not stay together lol...

certain woods can be worked green and wont do anything as they dry naturally as a slingshot, were as others like Laburnum will split themselves into 2 pieces if not dried very slowly

in saying that the reason that there has been no naturals from my workshop recently is to allow stock to thoroughly dry naturally
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Bostradamus
i dry mine in the microwave, 30 seconds at a time... let it cool down then zap it again repeat until it doesn't steam anymore....
what type of wood is the one in the middle?
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Dayhiker
I don't know about manzanita, but the oak ones can be carved while they are green -- it's much easier that way. Just get the shape you want, then get it right into the microwave and do as Bo says. Then you can use sandpaper and get a fine finish when it's dry.

Whatever you do, do not let those forks go too long without sealing the ends with glue or wax or something.
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Sofreto
@Bo...Manzinita
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Sofreto
@DH...if I understand you, all three ends need be be closed? Will wood glue work as a cover?
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newconvert
yes it will, but do it today
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Sofreto
On my way to home depot...thanks
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Sofreto
Sealed...thanks for the info
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rockslinger
Cool forks, I want to get a couple of manzanita next time I'm in the mountains.
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