Sawdust...I generate loads of the stuff! What to do with it, in a creative way of course?
Idea...
Turn a shape from inexpensive wood (pine?)
Coat the shape with glue of choice.
Cover completely with saved sawdust/shavings from Walnut, Mahogany, etc. May take a few coats to get it completely covered.
Spray down with lacquer or finish of choice. Several coats may be necessary in order to stiffen the covering.
return to lathe and sand, most likely starting with a fine grit and working backwards in order to not take away ALL of the coating. The form may have to be recoated a few times and re-sanded in order to get an even coverage.
In my minds eye, I can see this creating a unique texture on the form. By first painting the shape (black lacquer?) and then using tape to define narrow lines to separate the glue spaces, I think interesting designs are possible?
Bob