The Harvest
I mentioned in my last post that perhaps the most important part of my creative process and the thing that connects me to my work, is the act of harvesting my raw materials. This process usually takes place where the tree has been felled. This is usually on the property of the homeowner where the tree has been brought down due to age and/or decay. This process could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months as I am careful not to harvest any wood that I cannot rough-turn within a few days. I choose to process all of my material while it is still green. The wood can contain up to 150% of its weight in water and the drying process must be done thoughtfully so as not to risk cracking. There are several factors involved in the decisions on how to break down the tree, not the least of which is how to get the most yield, without excessive wasteland still show all the natural beauty of the woods grain, figure, and color. Ultimately this act needs to be done with a certain respect for the tree. As with turning itself, if I approach this process with respect and thoughtfulness, it carries all the way to the final product. I have always understood that all objects carry an energy and I know that when my work is touched and handled that people can sense all the love and passion that went into making every single item. Once blank are cut in the field, they are brought into the shop and rough-turned. Store them to air dry naturally and once they are at equilibrium moisture ( the same moisture content of the air) they will be re-turned and finished. Most bowls are ready to finish in 4 to 6 months, and my spice grinders and canisters like to dry for about 12 months before they are re-turned. It’s true that there are a few different and faster ways of drying material. Most common is kiln drying green wood. Yes is would be much faster to work this way, but I have always preferred to finish with air-dried wood. There is something kind of personal in it for me as I feel like it just seems too hard on the wood and it never seems to have the same quality and feel once it has been cooked in an oven for weeks. Having the privilege of teaching woodturning over the last 20 years, the harvesting process is one of my favorite things to talk about to other woodworkers. I get great satisfaction of demystifying the process and showing anyone how to connect better with there materials.
Peace and love
Nicola
