downed limbs

[Jonathan Smith]

Is Sweet Gum turnable? I can get some 6-7 inch limbs that broke off of a sweet gum tree. Are these turnable or shoule I make bandsaw boxes out of them?

Thanks,
Jonathan

[bobby lynn]

Turns fine but prone to cracking and warping.

[Eric Holmquist]

Sweet Gum is one of my favorite turning woods. It moves a LOT, but looks amazing. It can soak up finish like a sponge. I only use it for bowls that I don't plan to embellish.

[Jim Burr]

Turns get when it's wet, but it hold water like a camel...cover up when you turn it!

[Bernie Weishapl]

I like sweet gum. It moves around alot while drying but can be some nice looking wood.

[Robert Henrickson]

It also can do some really wild spalting.

[Steve bellinger]

I also like gum. As a mater of fact i have a piece on the lath as i type. like has been said does like to move, so ruff turn and then put back on after it dries.here's a piece i finished last week.And the piece on the lathe.006 [800x600].jpg010 [800x600].jpg These are both burls, but are gum.

[Lee Koepke]

If it grows, its turn-able

[Tom Wilson66]

Make some spindle blanks out of the sapwood on the limb. These are great for the finials on ornaments and bowl lids, if you want a white spindle. Just be sure to let them dry at least 6 months for each incl of thickness, to lessen warping after turning, and allow air to circulate throughout the stack of spindles. I have made some from this, and they give good results.

[Jonathan Smith]

Thanks for all the answers! If I make something I'll post a picture!

Jonathan