Blackwood or Ebony?

RMLamey

RMLamey

Joined
Nov 13, 1998
Messages
2,598
Where can i get some very high quality Blackwood or Ebony? Im looking for the "black" stuff, not the grey/chocolate streaked stuff. Also dont want the real brittle crap that ive used before... reminded me of trying to work freakin char coal.

SO if anyone knows of any very nice "black" Ebony or Blackwood, that i can get in large blocks (2 x 1 x 5) minimum, let me know.

Thanks!
 
I can't help you with the scales, but just wanted to drop you a note... You do some awesome work. I'm particularly fond of the "poverty fighter". Keep up the good work.:)
 
Check out www.galleryhardwoods.com Larry can get you just about any size you want. I would go with Blackwood personally. I have used both and like how stable the blackwood is. Gabon ebony is a check waiting to happen. I have some I have had for years and it was old stock when i got it. It is fine until I put it on a handle then 2-3 months later check, check, check.
 
Matt,
I've been getting by Blackwood from Cook's Hardwoods.
They have photos on their website, and if you call and
tell them your criteria, they'll try to send what you want.
They have mostly larger pieces...better in my view, as they
can be cut for the grain I want......Lots less expensive than
buying pre cut pieces too.
 
A check is a small crack from drying. If you see one,
you can bet there are more coming.....sorta like rats.
 
Thanks. That was my guess.

I have some Gabon Ebony scale I've had sitting in the drawer for about 9 months. I bought in from Texas Knifemakers. Anything I should/can do for drying issues? Thanks.
 
I really don't know that Ebony, but as a general rule...if I'm air
drying wood, I'll cut the pieces oversize and set them to dry in
open air indoors. I'll check the pieces sevral times (lots) a day
and use the thinnest super glue to fill cracks as they develop.
Once the pieces seem to have stopped shrinking, checking, etc,
I'll grind to size and send the pieces off for stabilization.

Blackwood in much harder and more durable than ebony, and is
more stable. It's related to Rosewood, and has a natural wax
like rosewood.
 
Without a doubt, no matter what you get - either Blackwood or Ebony - make sure it is oversized. Seal the ends by dipping about 1/2" of the block in melted wax. Then, put up in the rafters of the shop for about 3-4 months. Or just hang it from the ceiling with a string! This will force out any moisture laterally through the grain to minimize uneven shrinkage. You really have NO IDEA of how much moisture content there is, so play it safe and let it stabilize to your environment prior to use.
 
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