Replies

1. 
   Ronaway | Nov 24, 2006 02:55pm | #1

   The Rosewood would be the more traditional choice, however there is no reason why the Wenge would not function just as well. It all comes down to personal preference. One would want to make sure that the piece is stable possibly even quartersawn and thoroughly dried.

   Ron

1. 
   RyanC | Nov 24, 2006 06:15pm | #2

   I've heard wenge is hard to work, does anyone know about that?

              -Ryan C.

1. 
   Rich14 | Nov 24, 2006 10:04pm | #3

   Ryan,

   Wenge is not hard to work, but is is hard to handle. It's easy to get splinters and shards and they hurt like crazy. Wear gloves!

   It's a hard wood and it dulls tools fast, but it works and finishes very well.

   East Indian Rosewood is easy to handle and very easy to work. It's also hard, but not gritty hard like wenge. It finishes very well. Both woods can be brought to a high polish.

   Rich

1. 
   RyanC | Nov 25, 2006 12:08am | #4

   Thanks everyone!  I think I will go with rosewood but maybe honduras instead.  If I ever get it done I will be sure to post some pictures.

          -Ryan C.

2. 
   philip | Nov 25, 2006 09:32am | #5

   I would prefer the Indian Rosewood because it is more stable than Wenge, but it also depends on the design of your plane. Both can look good.
   Wenge is not difficult to work, but has splinters and is very "dirty".
   I made this knob with it just now.Philip Marcou

   
   

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   Edited 11/25/2006 1:55 am by philip

   
1. 
   philip | Nov 25, 2006 09:57am | #6

   Here is the right picture.Philip Marcou

   
1. 
   RyanC | Nov 25, 2006 04:43pm | #7

   Ooooo, I like that.  Of course I'm in love with brass and any kind of wood so I may be a little bias.  Thanks for the picture!

             -Ryan C.