Saw the recent article regarding creating spoons from steam bent stock. Just curious why spoons are typically made from greenwood and not regular stock? I’ve got some cherry that has a bow and twist to it and think it would be a great contender for a spoon.
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Replies
Carving green wood is easier than dry. It slices much better. You can make a spoon from dry wood, but it's more work.
You're also going to ensure the grain is straight and strong when it's split. If it's sawn, you could have runout.
Make spoons out of any wood you have. It's best if the handle follows the grain, but even that is not essential if the curve is gradual. I've taught basic hand tool woodworking to many students, and often started them on a spoon made from whatever scrap caught their eye. I didn't let them make a soup spoon out of red oak, as the soup would have gone right thru the bowl! Cherry and maple make good spoons.