How to Cure Wood for Turning

Wood stacked for drying.

Wood warps and shrinks as it dries causing cracking, which is often undesirable to a wood turner. There are a variety of ways to minimize cracking and shrinking while drying, and ways to speed up the drying process. The drying of wood is also known as curing the wood.

Things You'll Need

• Moisture meter
• Wax or wax emulsion sealer
• Brush
• Shims

Instructions

1. 

   Check the moisture content.

   Check the moisture content of your wood with a moisture meter, available at woodworking stores or at your local hardware store. According to WoodWorkWeb, wood with 5 to 14 percent moisture content is ideal. Dry your wood if the moisture content exceeds this amount; this is considered green wood.

2. 

   Apply wax sealer to minimize warping and cracking.

   Apply wax or wax emulsion sealer on any fresh cut piece of green wood by brushing it on the end grain and any other area that is freshly exposed.

3. 

   Dry wood faster and more evenly with shims.

   Place shims on the surface that the wood will be stacked on. This should be a dry indoor area without extreme fluctuations in temperature. Place the turning wood on these shims so the wood is elevated and has 1 inch of space between each piece. Place shims on top of the first row of wood and stack the next row using the same spacing. Repeat these steps as necessary until your wood is stacked neatly and well ventilated.

4. 

   Wait patiently for the wood to dry.

   Wait for several months to over one year for the wood to dry sufficiently, checking the moisture as desired.

Tips & Warnings

• Many woodturners prefer to turn wood while it is still green. Warping can be minimized by partially turning the wood to the desired shape, but leaving excess material, then storing the unfinished piece to dry.

• Much of the wood available at lumber yards is already at proper moisture levels. Ask the sales representative before buying.

• If wood is stored in a barn or shed, be sure to check for water leaks.

• Wear gloves and safety goggles while brushing wax onto wood.

References

• WoodWorkWeb: Is Your Wood Dry Enough - Wood Moisture Meters

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish