Camphor burl

Camphor is a pleasure to turn if you can tolerate the smell. It is overwhelming. It smells like Vicks Vaporub. Most people enjoy the fragrance. I have not turned the burl but have turned Camphor logs. Crotch wood has very nice figure and the color is spectacular. You will enjoy turning it. Bill Sullivan Fort Myers, FL

From what I have read, its a beautiful wood and turns well. But, it stinks. Some people love the smell. I don't. But that's me. Try it and decide for yourself. I've never turned any, but know what it smells like.

Barry

Barry N. Turner wrote:(clip) Some people love the smell. I don't. (clip) ^^^^^^^^^^^^ Make sure that everyone in the house likes the odor. It's really strong, and it spreads. I like it, personally. The wood has a really rich look that's hard to beat. A burl ought to be spectacular.

Hi Brian,

I have turned camphor burl. It turns very well. Sure, it smells like camphor but it's not unpleasant.

Kevin Neelley

Camphor burl is my favorite wood. If I could turn just one type of wood, this would be it. Most people love the smell, but I do admit the a 100 pounds of wet shavings can be a bit overpowering. If the smell is too much for you I'd be happy to take the wood off your hands ;-)

I make a lot of lidded boxes and leave the inside unfinished. If someone at a show picks up the box, I tell them to take the lid off and smell. Usually that sells the box.

for an example of finished pieces check out

Brad

Thanks for all the answers. I am looking forward to working on this one.

Brian

in article k9ScnW snipped-for-privacy@harbornet.com, Brian Combs at snipped-for-privacy@harbornet.com wrote on 11/11/03 12:58 PM:

Brian,

Turning Camphor was on of my most pleasant turning experiences. It submits willingly to the turner's tool. The one bowl I turned became a keeper and has a prominent place in my collection. Give the shavings away to your friends to put in their linen drawers as sachets.

Aloha, Rich