How do I prepare wood for scales?

[spketch]

Hello-
I searched around for guidance but couldn't find anything specific.

An acquaintance of mine snagged this piece of mesquite for me from her fathers wood shed down in Tuscon. She didn't know how long ago it was cut, but from the crack I'm assuming it is somewhat dry. The piece is about 6"x18" and 1" thick. Shown with an SAK pioneer for scale.

How should I go about preparing this for use as scales? I'm not sure if it's best to leave it whole or cut it into 6"x2" blocks and seal the ends. I'm in Phoenix so keeping it dry won't be an issue. Any idea how long it will take?

I especially like the side with light and dark wood. Assuming its usable that would make for nice contrast on a scale. Thanks for any advice on this story can give.
-Steve

 

[Patrickknives]

I cut my wood to about that size to dry, so I would just paint the ends and store, to be safe about a year. If you have a local wood working store take it there and maybe they can measure the moisture content to see if it is already dry.

I would worry about getting too dry in AZ, maybe a closet in the house but away from extreme temperatures and dryness.

 

[Burl Source]

Patrick gave good advice.
as an added comment;
Trim away all material with any cracks. Otherwise they will grow.

 

[spketch]

Thanks for the tips guys. I'll follow your advice and follow up when it's usable.