Myrtle wood bowl

[Dave Peterson]

I just turned the bowl this weekend. It is Myrtle Wood from Oregon. The diameter is 10 3/4". Coincidentally, the piece right behind it showed up in the mail today, and the circle in the middle is the same diameter (and thickness). The wood behind is a piece of Maple Burl and the burl goes all the way through! A little denatured alcohol was put on the surface to see how it would 'pop' after finishing. It is completely dry and ready to turn!

 

[Mike Davis]

Nice bowl, I didn't know myrtle got that big. Must be something different than the crepe myrtle we have here.

That burl is going to be spectacular!

 

[Dave Peterson]

Nice bowl, I didn't know myrtle got that big.

This is myrtle wood from Oregon. Totally different than Crepe Myrtle. the scientific name is Umbellularia california (Myrtaceae). Typical height is 40-80 ft., Trunk diameter can be anywhere from 1 1/2 ft - 2 1/2 ft. My book lists it as heavy, hard-wearing and resilient. It is prized by woodturners for its excellent turning properties. This piece had a tag on it when I got it in a trade (2004), so it has seasoned a long time.

 

[Flute Maker]

Wow that is a beautiful bowl and the myrtle is beautiful too

 

[MagGeorge]

It's a beautiful bowl! You turned it very thin and it has some amazing grain. Excellent skills and talent!

 

[teeball]

Nice job on that bowl. That burl should be amazing, best of luck.

 

[LeftyTom]

Nicely done, my good fellow.