Q:

I want to use some live-edge boards in my work. What’s the best way to strip the bark to reveal the surface below?

Amir Fahzad, Negril, None

A:

There’s an intriguing visual and tactile appeal to live-edge boards, those sawn so that one or both edges are the edge of the log, with the bark removed to reveal a wonderfully undulating surface.

It’s easiest to remove the bark from a tree cut in the spring, when the sap is rising. The bark will come off easily with a drawknife. The moist cambium layer beneath the bark can be scraped away quickly with the dull edge of a putty knife.

Removing bark from dry wood requires a little more effort. Clamp the board bark-side up. Use a sharp drawknife to remove most of the bark (see photo, right). I use a small teardrop-shaped scraper to remove most of the stringy cambium layer.

Give the wood a good rubbing with a stiff wire brush, then sand up to P220-grit and apply a couple of coats of your favorite finish.

Exposing an edge

Use a drawknife to remove bark quickly. Slice beneath the surface, then twist the blade as you pull.

Clean up the undulating wood edge with a scraper.

Photo: Kelly J. Dunton and Andy Rae

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

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

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Bahco 6-Inch Card Scraper

The size and thickness are what matter here. A consistent performer, this Bahco scraper is found in many shops we visit.

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Zissner Seal Coat

Great as a sanding sealer, and as a final finish.

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