How-To
Sweetgum: Neglected Wood with an Elusive Identity
This Dixie star is a master of disguise
Jon Arno extols the virtues of sweetgum, which he calls a chameleon in terms of density, texture, appearance, and working characteristics. He explains its long history of use in the U.S. and abroad as a cabinet wood. It takes stain well and has excellent working characteristics, but it does have drawbacks: poor resistance to decay and lack of stability. Arno takes you inside a tree trunk to see more.
From Fine Woodworking #142
Fine Woodworking Recommended Products
DeWalt 735X Planer
At high speed, the planer works fast and leaves a smooth surface. But the slower, finish speed produces an almost glass-smooth surface. Knife changes are easy.
AnchorSeal Log and Lumber End-Grain Sealer
Good for both sealing the end grain of freshly cut logs and boards, this wax prevents end-grain checking and saves material
Ridgid R4331 Planer
Priced nearly $300 less than the DeWalt 735X, the Ridgid R4331 is an excellent value. Its three-knife cutterhead left wonderfully clean surfaces on plainsawn white oak and white pine. It did not perform nearly as well on curly maple as the 735X.
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