Stunning burr elm bowl

I prepared the blank for this incredible piece about eighteen months ago and have been eager to complete it ever since! - at just over 22” across, it’s the largest solid burr elm fruit bowl I have made and something of a wonder to see.

An almost glass like finish is what I aim for, which is the result of many processes. This is harder to achieve with burr woods, as the grain can move in so many directions. Having been roughed out, the initial blank was air dried for well over a year, before spending five weeks in the drying kiln. It was then stored inside for a further three months, making it as dry as feasibly possible.

Working with super dry wood is challenging, but the result is well worth the effort – this piece will last indefinitely indoors, with just occasional re oiling required…