Wood Lovers Faberge' Egg

Step 2 Cutting the Banksia Pod

The inner core of the pod is quite strong even if there are a lot of holes from the seeds. You will need to get to this core by removing the soft, unstable material on the outside. For a flat surface cut off the ends of the pod with the band saw (approximately 1"). If unsure, you can cut off 1/2" slices until you get to the core. Remember it's best to cut off smaller pieces as it's difficult to replace if you cut off too much.

With the stem end up, you now have a flat surface for the foot of the egg.

(If you are only making an egg to sit on a shelf, you can skip this step.) I also need the flat surface to drill a hole, since I am making the egg to use as a cane handle it needs to have a dowel or fastener. Using first a 1" Forstner bit I drilled 1/4" deep, then using a 3/8" Forstner bit I drilled the length of the coupling screw. This hole is made for a brass coupling so I can screw it on to the shaft securely and it will be hidden inside the egg (handle) and shaft. Note: If you do not need the top to be removable, you can use a dowel to fasten the handle to shaft instead of the brass coupling.