Another Question DNA

[Ray Bell]

If in fact the DNA displaces the water in a rough turned bowl would it be possible to then accelerate the drying process? Maybe a heat box with a light bulb like an incubator. I apologize if this has already been answered. I did a quick search, but didn't see it.

Ray

[David E Keller]

I would avoid the combo of extra heat and evaporating DNA. No experience doing it, but the idea makes me a little nervous.

[Barry Elder]

If I remember correctly that is how volcano explosions are caused.

[Ray Bell]

Ah, yes. In the back of my feeble mind, I knew there was something I wasn't thinking about. This may result in a too dry situation. Instead of an Ash bowl, it may become just a pile of Ashes. Thanks for the reminder.

[Dick Strauss]

Ray,
Even after the DNA soak, you will often see cracking if you don't slow the process of drying your piece via a paper bag or a wrap of newspaper, etc.

[John Keeton]

There was an interesting article in Woodturning Design about using a refrigerator with a light bulb as a "kiln" for bowl blanks. Didn't use DNA, but it sure accelerated the drying process.

[Bernie Weishapl]

Dick hit the nail on the head. Drying should be a slow process. Even if it was safe to do (which it is not) the extra heat will probably ruin it by drying it way to fast.

[Ray Bell]

Thanks all for the replies.

[Steve Bistritz]

I usually double paper bag it and weigh it every once in awhile till it stops losing weight. Have not lost a piece that way yet......so far..

[Ray Bell]

I usually double paper bag it and weigh it every once in awhile till it stops losing weight. Have not lost a piece that way yet......so far..

And on average this is how long?

[Steve Bistritz]

Depending on the size of the piece, type of wood, basement conditions, I would have to say 2-3 months as an average. Some may be ready faster but I never rush it.

[Ken Glass]

Ray,
More important than time is the process where the piece stops losing weight.
Some woods dry much quicker than others. I have found that when the wood stops losing weight 3-4 days in a row, it is usually stable enough to start finish turning. This can be in as little as 12-14 days or as much as a 30-60 days. Weighing the wrapped piece will give you the clue as when to finish it.

[Ray Bell]

Thanks guys, looks like I need to search around for a postal scale.

Ray