I have covered all of the details of Sycamore as a wood in the past.
This was a fun little project that took less than 2 hours of my time. I had a nice round blank of Sycamore that had been quarter-sawn to highlight the ray fleck pattern that is common to Sycamore when quarter-sawn. Compared to other woods, the Sycamore had not warped significantly during drying which made it easier to work with than those woods that warp significantly. There was not need to turn it between centers to flatten the surfaces for mounting.
Sycamore Dish Interior
The piece rounded easily and it had warped some as quickly became obvious. The blank started at 8 inches round but after accounting for warp it is now 7 5/8 which is not a huge loss, again, compared to other woods that I have worked with recently. Persimmon comes to mind as a wood that warps significantly upon drying.
I was pleased with the pronounced ray fleck pattern on this Sycamore piece and I was pleased with the ease with which Sycamore turns. It was like cutting butter and the cuts were smooth as well. I used my usual Easy Wood Tools and had great results in achieving smooth cuts that were easy to finish sand.
I wasn’t thrilled as I usually am with the Shellawax effect on the piece. In some areas it seemed almost blotchy and that is not something I usually experience with Shellawax finishes. But every species and even every piece of wood of the same species can be different and that is part of the reason why wood working and turning is always interesting, always a learning experience, and always something new.
Sycamore Dish Reverse
For a few hours of investment I am pleased with this piece and look forward to working with Sycamore again. I would recommend working with Sycamore to experienced and beginning wood workers and turners.
Whatever you make have a good turn today!
