"Green Smoke" in woodturning could refer to a few different things, depending on the context. Here are some possibilities:
1. Turning Green Wood (Wet Wood) and Smoke
When turning freshly cut ("green") wood on a lathe, the high moisture content can sometimes cause friction, leading to steam or even smoke if the tool gets too hot.
If the wood has a high resin content (like pine), it might produce more noticeable smoke.
Solution: Sharpen your tools frequently, reduce speed, and take lighter cuts to avoid overheating.
2. Burning Green Wood for Effect
Some woodturners intentionally burn green wood (using a torch or wire) to create contrast and texture in their pieces.
If the wood has certain minerals or tannins, it might produce a greenish tint when burned.
Example: Using a shou sugi ban (Japanese charring technique) on a turned bowl for a smoky, textured look.
3. Dye or Pigment Called "Green Smoke"
There are wood dyes and stains with names like "Green Smoke" (similar to some popular paint colors).
You could apply this to a turned piece for a translucent, smoky green effect.
Example: Using Liberon Green Smoke Wood Dye or mixing translucent green with a touch of black for depth.
4. Resin and Alumilite Effects
Some turners mix resin with green pigments or alcohol inks to create smoky, translucent effects in hybrid wood-resin pieces.
Technique: Swirling green and black/gray resin before curing to mimic smoke.
5. Metaphorical or Artistic Meaning
A turned piece titled Green Smoke might evoke flowing, wispy forms (like smoke) in green-toned wood (e.g., olive wood, dyed maple, or spalted wood with green fungal patterns).
If You’re Making a "Green Smoke" Piece:
Materials: Try spalted maple (natural green-gray streaks), dyed box elder, or resin with green mica.
Techniques:
Texturing with a wire brush or burning for a smoky effect.
Layering green-tinted epoxy for depth.
Fuming with ammonia (on oak) for subtle greenish tones.
Would you like specific instructions for a project? Or is this a reference to something else?
