How long should I home dry a large oak log for carving?
Hi, I have a large trunk piece 29" in diameter and 5 feet long with the bark still on it. I want to dry it out for carving on one side and standing it in my yard for a decoration, similar to a totem pole. How should I dry it and for how long? Also, I have two pieces about 10" x 29" thick that I want to hand carve into a large bowls. Same question, how long? And finally, I have coated the ends of the logs with black roofing tar so that the wood will not having checking. Will this suffice for the smaller cuts as well?
Thanks
Tom
Discussions
Best Answer 2 years ago
The rule of thumb is 1" of thickness per year, naturally dried.
Answer 2 years ago
Learn something new every day.
Answer 2 years ago
Everything I know about wooden logs, I learned from the jingle for the toy named, "Log", from Blamo(r), from the old "Ren and Stimpy" show.
Answer 2 years ago
That is also the problem when buying some wood for carving needs.
The grain structure and how it was dried make the price in most cases.
I learned from my grandfather that carving wood is to be stored with the firewood but for at least 2 seasons, really big or thick pieces we dried for up to 5 years before using....
Answer 2 years ago
As slab, and in a drying "kiln", you can be considerably faster though.