Getting wood stabilized

[M.Griffin]

So I came across some really nice redwood burl recently that I couldn't pass up. I finally got around to cutting some up to get stabilized and have a few questions. I read on WSSI's page to cut oversized to allow for some warping that may occur. How oversized? I have some of it cut into blocks that are around 6"x3.5"x4". Should I just get these large blocks stabilized and cut handle sized blocks from the larger blocks after they are stabilized? What is my best route here?

I saw on the thread started by burlsource that some thought it best to keep the slab for a table. Hope this doesn't make them cringe. It was already a table, but is becoming handle material. I already have a redwood burl coffee table, and don't need two.

Here are a couple of pics.

-Mike

 

[SBuzek]

Those are good size blocks for stabilizing.Should be able to get 4 sets of knife handles out of each block.
Stan

 

[KnifeMaker.ca]

You might want to cut smaller for a few reasons. If for instance, you wanted handles about 1 1/2 x 5 x 1", you might want to cut maybe 3/16 to 1/4 oversize to allow for any deformation or flat sanding etc. It also means if a crack forms (and that can happen during stabilizing) it may only go through one piece instead of a whole large block. Lastly, you pay by the pound, both for the stabilant and for your own wood. Trimming after the fact costs you $.

You have enough there to have it both ways. Be economical with most of it leaving 1/4" extra all 'round - and leave a few well oversize for that unaticipated project.

Rob!

 

[Patrickknives]

I had a bunch done by WSSI and the warpage and messing was really minimal, I believe my blocks were 3" x 2" x 5" . It is wise to have some to play with but you really dont need much. I sent a bunch of blocks and scales of different woods and they all were really perfect. I woul worry more about penetration in large pieces more. Its nice having a drawer full of blocks ready to go already the size I need.

 

[Burl Source]

You scored on some good redwood burl there.
If you cut the blocks about 1/4" oversized you should be safe. The main concern with warpage is when you are having scales stabilized.

 

[M.Griffin]

Thank you all for the help and info. I will cut the blocks down to usable sizes before sending off. Another benefit is that I can really get zeroed in on the best pieces for use. Thanks again.

-Mike