Turning Blanks

What Are Turning Blanks?

Turning blanks are wood pieces cut into specific sizes to be used for woodworking projects. With these blanks, you can create almost anything because they are flexible and easy to work with.

You can shape blanks into different objects using a wood-turning lathe to make anything from pen holders to musical instruments to sports equipment. You can create anything you want out of wood-turning blanks.

The blank is securely attached to a lathe with a spindle. The spindle moves in a circular motion. Rotation speeds depend on what you are making and can be adjusted accordingly. While the blank is on the lathe, you can use other tools to shape it into something you want.

Having wood turning blanks is convenient because they are readily available in different sizes, thicknesses, and varieties, like spindle blanks, bowl blanks, and even wood pen blanks. The wide selection guarantees a better wood choice for every project you have.

Best Timber for Turning

Not all woods are great for turning. Some woods are very dense or hard to work with on a lathe. To avoid selecting the wrong wood, here is a list of the best timber used for turning:

• Cedar
• Cherry
• Boxelder
• Elm
• Maple
• Oak
• Sycamore
• Walnut

Several wood species from both softwoods and hardwoods make suitable turning blanks. Other exotic wood choices include cocobolo, padauk, Bradford pear, pacific madrone, rosewood, and osage orange.

How Wood-Turning Blanks Are Made

Blanks are made from logs using different tools. First, a large log is divided into sections at a sawmill. Then, it is formed into blanks of different sizes and thicknesses using a bandsaw or a table saw.

Some wood blanks are sealed right after cutting, so they won’t dry out and crack. That is why the ends are usually covered with a wood sealer, paint, or wax.

Why Dried Wood Turning Blanks Should Be Used

Using dried wood turning blanks is recommended for professional and amateur woodturners alike, for good reasons.

Easier to Turn

Dry wood is more flexible, making it easy to work with. It also retains its shape once turned, unlike green wood.

Don’t Crack Easily

Prevention of cracks is the main reason dried wood is used for all (if not most) wood projects. Cracks within the structure are inevitable. However, proper drying of the wood minimizes this issue.

Reduce Contraction

Contraction is another reason why wood cracks. As the wood is exposed to oxygen, it shrinks and swells. Drying wood before turning causes less stress and changes, thereby decreasing cracks.

More Adaptable to Turning Techniques

Using dried wood turning blanks allows woodworkers to use numerous turning techniques without difficulty. Due to its easy workability, you can conveniently craft things without causing too much stress on the wood.

FAQs

Can you turn fresh dried wood?

Drying naturally takes years, but you can dry wood in a kiln in a matter of weeks. It is better to use correctly dried wood when turning. Otherwise, cracking and splitting may occur and destroy the item.

How dry do the blanks need to be for turning?

The equilibrium moisture content (EMC) is the wood’s moisture content at a relative humidity level. The EMC should not increase or decrease but rather maintain its percentage. The EMC in the United States is usually between 6 to 9% with a +/- margin of 2%. That said, wood should be dried from 4 to 11% before turning.

Where to Buy Wood Turning Blanks

Sourcing wood turning blanks is best done with a trusted seller such as Alderfer Lumber Company Inc. At Alderfer, we provide sustainably sourced blanks cut and appropriately treated to prevent cracking and splitting. We provide customized cuts if you need specific sizes of blanks.

Alderfer is your one-stop shop for your lumber needs.

We have you covered, from live edge wood slabs to blanks, decorative wall panels, commercial shelving, and everything in between.

Call or email us with any questions about our products and services and your specific requirements for wood sizes, thicknesses, and varieties.