After turning green wood, controlling the drying process is crucial to prevent cracking and warping. The goal is to slow down the rate at which moisture leaves the wood.
One effective method, especially for turned bowls and hollow forms, is to store the pieces in paper bags or in a small room that maintains a stable humidity so they do not dry too fast and crack.
Why Control Green Wood Drying?
Green wood contains a significant amount of moisture. As this moisture evaporates, the wood shrinks. If drying happens too quickly or unevenly, different parts of the wood shrink at different rates, leading to stress and eventual cracking or warping. Slowing the drying process allows the wood to shrink more uniformly.
Methods for Drying Turned Green Wood
Based on the reference, two primary approaches involve controlling the environment around the turned piece:
1. Storing in Paper Bags
- How it works: Placing a turned green wood piece inside a paper bag creates a micro-environment around the wood. The paper bag helps slow down the exchange of moisture between the wood and the surrounding air. This gentle restriction of airflow promotes slower, more even drying.
- Practical Tips:
- Use thick paper bags (like grocery bags).
- You can loosely fold or roll the top of the bag shut, but don't seal it airtight. Some airflow is still needed for drying to occur.
- You might place the bagged piece in a location away from direct sunlight or drafts.
- For larger pieces, multiple bags or double-bagging might be considered.
2. Storing in a Room with Stable Humidity
- How it works: Keeping turned pieces in an environment where humidity levels don't fluctuate wildly helps prevent rapid drying. A small, enclosed space or a room with humidity control (like a basement or a climate-controlled shop) provides this stability.
- Practical Tips:
- Choose a location away from vents, heaters, or air conditioners.
- Monitor humidity levels if possible using a hygrometer.
- This method is often used in conjunction with other techniques like paper bags or shavings.
Comparing Drying Methods
| Method | Control Level | Drying Speed | Crack Risk | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper Bag Storage | High | Slow | Lower | Smaller/Medium Pieces |
| Stable Humidity Room Storage | High | Slow | Lower | All Sizes |
The Importance of Slow Drying
As the reference states, the primary goal of these methods is to ensure the wood does not dry too fast and crack. Rushing the drying process almost guarantees defects. Patience is key when drying green wood.
While the reference focuses on these specific methods, other techniques sometimes used in green wood drying include packing in shavings or using specialized drying chambers, but the core principle remains the same: control moisture loss.
By utilizing methods like storing in paper bags or stable humidity rooms, you can significantly increase the chances of successfully drying your turned green wood pieces without damaging them.
