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Alder Block Ald54 2.6" x 2.7" x 8" 1 lbs. Here's a moderately spalted spindle of Red Alder. The wood is an overall peachy-brown color with warm undertones of red and yellow. There are lines of black spalting that highlight and sometimes cross-cut the grain. This one has very pretty white bits of sapwood swirled into the heartwood. Alder tends to have a lot of color variation throughout, so please browse the photos to get a sense of this particular piece's character. This is moderately spalted piece of Red Alder. To achieve this degree of spalting, the wood does give up a bit of density and strength. Turning this block to achieve a good finish without tearout will require sharp tools and a light touch. Fully air-dried to 10-12% moisture content. This piece has several cracks, as shown in the close-up photo. You'll need to fill these with CA glue or epoxy prior to turning. About the Tree This Red Alder tree lived a long and healthy life on San Juan Island, Washington. It died naturally and toppled over, probably during one of the wind storms which frequently sweep across the island. It rested on the ground in the forest for a time, allowing the local mushrooms to colonize and spalt the wood. Spalting is highly variable across the tree. Not all pieces have spalting, but quite a few have black-line and zone spalting that enhance this already-beautiful wood. You'll enjoy the projects you create from this wood! |