Black Cherry Raw Edge Platter

Brian's eyes are constantly moving when he hikes in the forest because burls are often the hidden treasure, found near the roots, on the back side of the tree or high in the branches.  This burl was discovered on a fallen cherry tree not far from our cottage.  Black cherry has distinctive rough-edged raised bark which looks like it has been in a forest fire.

 

Black Cherry burl platter

 

The burl was fairly large and flat and Brian was able to turn a unique raw edge platter with whorling grain and dramatic variations in colour.  

 

 

The top of the platter is beautiful but it has even more character when you turn it upside down.  It has a small pedestal, bark inclusions and the unique texture of the black cherry tree.

Raw Edge Sugar Maple Bowl

 

 

 

Sugar Maple is a hardwood maple tree, with deeply furrowed dark bark, found throughout Ontario.  We all love this tree for the vivid orange and red leafy splendor of autumn colour and the joy of pouring maple syrup on our pancakes. 

 

Brian mounted this large sugar maple burl on the lathe, shaping the bottom with the gouge to form graceful, fluted wings.

 



 

Attaching a chuck to the bottom, Brian removed the faceplate and turned the inside of the bowl.  It revealed distinctive bark inclusions, colour variations and figuring.  After the process of sanding, oiling and polishing, the bowl is finished. This prized bowl, with its rough, raw edge and unique, swirling grain patterns has a fine smooth finish.

 

Sugar Maple Burl Bowl

 

Best Wishes for a Wonderful 2013

 

Winter has arrived in Muskoka and we have lots of snow for the holiday season. 

 

Wishing you and yours all the best in 2013.