Need advice on hemlock

[boxxmaker]

Hi folks,havn't been doin a lot of turning lately,but am getting back to ti,anyway,I have an offer to get some free wood,but it is hemlock,these tree's are 18" plus in dia.they are down and all I have to do is take em,but I was wondering if anybody has turned this and if so,how is it for turning.

Thanks Ken

 

[CrealBilly]

all i know that hemlock is good for is not weight bearing internal construction materials like trim and paneling something you drive a nail in to keep flat... so your on your own there spinny maan

 

[boxxmaker]

I guess nobody here has turned this wood or knew anybody that has.Hmmmmm

 

[Jeff]

No experience here. Janka hardness is slightly less than poplar. Sounds kinda unimpressive though.

http://www.wood-database.com/lumber-identification/softwoods/eastern-hemlock/

No harm in spinning a few pieces just for the heck of it. You might be surprised.

 

[CaptnA]

Hey Ken - I turned some hemlock a few years back.
It had the hard/soft rings which made sanding so much fun...
I thought it was sort of like a cedar as far as turning qualities
not impressive but free wood is free wood

 

[Flootsie]

If this is still around I would like to try it. I was on the board just now wanting to ask about substitutes for fir. I would love to turn a section...or a tree.