Bloodwood

[Mark Nelson]

I was wondering if anyone has ever worked with the stuff. I got a block this weekend and I am going to use it to put a handle on a bowie and was thinking about using it on my Fox Folly. Any experience and/or finishing tips would be welcome. Thanks.

 

[Daniel Koster]

------------------------------------------------
Botanical Name
Brosimum Rubescens

Other Names
Muirapiranga, Satine Rubane, Cardinal Wood

Mechanical Properties
High bending and crushing strength. Medium stiffness and resistence to shock, but tends to splinter. Low steam bending characteristics.

Working Properties
Although hard and tough, it works easily with hand and power tools. May need pre-drilling for nailing. Holds screws well. Glues, stains and polishes to a very good finish.

Durabilty
Durable and very resistent to preservative treatment.

Seasoning
Dries slowly without much degredation. Small movement.

Uses
Cabinetmaking, furniture, decorative inlay, marquetry work, fancy boxes, turning, veneers.

Comments
Ages to a deep brown color. Lacquer extends aging to help preserve red color.

--------------------------------------------

"This wood is very resistant to bugs and decay, and its resistant properties contribute to possible allergic response to the dust. A dust mask & long sleeves must always be used while working this wood. "

--------------------------------------------

Same family of woods as cocobolo, I believe. Easy to machine and get a good finish.

 

[arty]

I bought a piece of bloodwood from Woodcraft. It is beautiful, but the stuff that they sent me was not stable. It cupped and twisted - it is in winding.
I wanted to use if for handles, but If so, I plan to let the material sit for some time in the area where it will be worked. It should be thoroughly sealed with something that will prevent moisture from causing further movement of the wood.
Multiple coats of varnish, or wiping varnish, or enough coats of something like pure Tung oil might work to prevent further movement of the wood.