Another Bowed Wood Question and a Hello

[Jeff Davis]

I one of those fellers thats been lurking in the shadows for a few days and I've run into a problem that I need help with. I've searched the forums and really didn't see what I was looking for. I'm building a Grandfather clock out of quartersawn white oak. I ordered this wood from the great unamed internet auction site and have in general been very pleased with it. I've already built the sides of the clock with no problems but when I cut and planed the front longer pieces (78 1/2" x 3") one of the boards bowed on the side. Over the total length, it's bowed about 1 inch. I didn't resaw this board -- just ripped it and planed it down to 3/4". The other 78 1/2" board, ripped out of the same wider board did not bow. Should I scrap it and order more or is there an easy way to remove the bow?

Thanks for your help and all the other good ideas I'm gettin off of your site..........

Jeff

[Jim Becker]

Jeff, welcome to the 'Creek!

What you describe is likely a case of case-hardening or uneven moisture or both--a result of how the wood was dried combined with "its nature". You really can't get a bow like that out and you are best served by replacing that component. Good joinery really requires flat and straight lumber, so I think that is the best route.

You really can't identify when this will happen, either. It just does and that's one reason to always aquire 20-25% more material than your project calls for to insure you can deal with "natural" problems like this, "human boo-boos" and also do some grain and color matching on components where it matters.

[Fred Voorhees]

........... "human boo-boos"

The reason why I get additional stock!

[Gary Breckenridge]

This is a grandfather clock that will be around for a long time; maybe get passed down in the family and be in a place of honor in the living or dining room for years and years. So you're thinking of saving a buck or two and a half hours work. Is your name going on this clock?

[Mark Singer]

When I make furniture I carefull look at all the stock...use the "bananas" for short pieces...aprons...legs... The stretchers and , door stiles must be straight...one way to straighten is to resaw and glue together flat...3 laminations are best...If it is your last board you can use a wet towel and steam iron and steam the concave side...sometimes it comes back...like others said get a better stick

[Steve Clardy]

Welcome Jeff!!

[Tyler Howell]

Come into the light lurker! Welcome to the creek.

[tod evans]

welcome jeff