Woodturning apple wood can be a rewarding experience due to its beautiful grain, warm tones, and occasional figuring. However, it also presents some challenges. Here’s a guide to help you work with apple wood effectively:
Characteristics of Apple Wood:
Color: Heartwood ranges from pale reddish-brown to deeper reds, while sapwood is lighter (cream to pale yellow). The wood darkens with age and exposure to light.
Grain: Fine and even, sometimes with attractive figuring (curly or spalted patterns).
Hardness: Moderately hard and dense, making it durable but challenging to turn.
Drying: Prone to cracking and warping if not dried properly.
Preparing Apple Wood for Turning:
Fresh vs. Seasoned Wood:
Green (Fresh) Apple Wood: Easier to turn but likely to crack as it dries. Best for rough-turning bowls or hollow forms with extra thickness to allow for movement.
Seasoned/Dry Apple Wood: More stable but harder to turn. Kiln-dried or air-dried (at least 1–2 years) is best for final projects.
Sealing End Grain: If working with green wood, seal the ends with anchorseal or wax to prevent rapid moisture loss and cracking.
Cutting Blanks: Remove the pith (center of the log) to minimize warping and cracking.
Turning Tips:
Sharp Tools: Apple wood is hard, so use sharp gouges, scrapers, and skew chisels to avoid tear-out.
Light Cuts: Take smaller cuts to avoid tool chatter and reduce stress on the wood.
Sand Gradually: Start with coarse grit (80–120) and work up to finer grits (400–600+) for a smooth finish.
Watch for Tear-Out: The grain can be unpredictable, so sand carefully or use a shear-scraping technique.
Finishing Apple Wood:
Oil Finishes (Tung, Walnut, or Danish Oil): Enhance the natural color and grain.
Wax (Beeswax/Carnauba): Gives a soft sheen and smooth feel.
CA Glue or Lacquer: For small items like pens or bottle stoppers, a high-gloss finish works well.
Common Uses:
Bowls & Plates
Pens & Bottle Stoppers
Small Boxes & Spindle Work
Decorative Items (Christmas ornaments, goblets)
Challenges:
Cracking: Apple wood is prone to checking, especially if dried too quickly.
Tool Wear: Hardness can dull tools faster—keep them sharp.
Limited Size: Apple trees are often small, so large blanks are rare.
