HOLLOW FORM VESSELS
COMING SOON
The process of turning a hollow form is considerably more exacting and time consuming than a bowl or spindle turned item like a candle holder. Firstly, specialised tools are needed to hollow out the inside from a small opening. However, what makes it take so much longer is that the drying needs to be much more carefully regulated, and slower, to avoid the wood cracking as it balances the internal stresses and tensions in the wood.
After an initial turning from green (fresh) wood, the form is packed in wood shavings in a semi-breathable container for 12-18 months. The shavings need to be changed every few months to lessen the development of moulds and fungus. After this process the roughed forms are exposed to mor air circulation in an outdoor shed for 6 - 12 months before being brought into a household climate for up to 6 months of final drying after which the piece can be returned to the lathe to create the final form and finish.
Although not practical for storage purposes, these hollow forms are things of beauty to be admired and enjoyed. Some are embellished with stoppers and finials to enhance the visual effect.
I have several in the process of drying so watch this space or contact me for an update.
The process of turning a hollow form is considerably more exacting and time consuming than a bowl or spindle turned item like a candle holder. Firstly, specialised tools are needed to hollow out the inside from a small opening. However, what makes it take so much longer is that the drying needs to be much more carefully regulated, and slower, to avoid the wood cracking as it balances the internal stresses and tensions in the wood.
After an initial turning from green (fresh) wood, the form is packed in wood shavings in a semi-breathable container for 12-18 months. The shavings need to be changed every few months to lessen the development of moulds and fungus. After this process the roughed forms are exposed to mor air circulation in an outdoor shed for 6 - 12 months before being brought into a household climate for up to 6 months of final drying after which the piece can be returned to the lathe to create the final form and finish.
Although not practical for storage purposes, these hollow forms are things of beauty to be admired and enjoyed. Some are embellished with stoppers and finials to enhance the visual effect.
I have several in the process of drying so watch this space or contact me for an update.
