Re: Box Elder

Thanks Tony,

bin pho, at his demo last week explained that he would airbrush a particular red color over the natural color, following the lines carefully, and then it would not fade

I remember that statement. I may try that on an ugly piece that I don't mind ruining because I am no expert with the airbrush. I do know it has to be done when it is first completed which I believe is when it is still green, that sound about right? Not sure I fully understand the process and failed to ask him when I had the chance (not too smart of me).

It does fade but not nearly as quickly as the other UV reactive woods like purpleheart or osage orange. It fades to a duller "brick brown" to my eyes but takes quite a while to do it and it still looks good anyway.

You can slow down the process of the color fade by using a finish with UV inhibitors such as some autobody lacquers and a few woodworking polyurethanes. Sunblock (such as you would use on your skin) does NOT work though and, in fact, makes the wood much much darker faster.

I'm keeping my pallets of flame box elder in a semi dark area of a shed to dry. It doesn't matter, I suppose, because the outter layers will just get turned away exposing the "fresh" color of flame but it makes me feel better and keeps it out of sight (out of mind!) a bit better.

- Andrew

Andrew,

Thanks for your valuable input (I'll check into using some type of UV blocker/inhibitor).. I will pass along to my customers what you have told me. Honesty up front is the best way to keep customers happy and coming back.

I know that I couldn't.

Bill