Curing a spotted gum limb?

[Jawry]

Hi All

Have read quite a few 'how to articles' on bow making, but have a quick question regarding the curing of a spotted gum trunk that i have collected.

OK - the trunk is approximately 55cm in diameter, nice and straight, 2m long and is green (have just cut down a live sapling)

One article suggested cutting in half (lengthwise obviously) then tying to a straight piece of steel (or whatever) to cure.

Trouble is - i do not have access to a bandsaw at the moment to split it.

Can i cure it as the full trunk ie not split?

If yes - should the ends (or any other part) be sealed? I assume just normal old paint will do the trick, or is something else recommended?

Thanks in advance,

Iain

p.s. Glenn, will be up your way in a few weeks. I will pm you - would love to visit if possible.

[Glenn]

Iain, best to split in half if you can, other wise it may take years to dry and split badly anyway. Even if the trunk does bend it will more than likely bend into relfex which is what you want anyway. Any oil based sealer will do for sealing the ends.
Just PM me when you think you can come up...Glenn...

[Jawry]

Thanks Glenn

I will make an attempt with the jigsaw. With a little care and attention should be able to get a straight cut.

One atricle suggest putting a packer at both ends to create a reflex during the drying/curing process.

If i get two decent halves after the jigsaw effort - i will attempt the packing on one of them.

Must invest in a digital camera so the results can be posted.

Cheers,

Iain

[Glenn]

Iain you will find the the split log will want to bend away from the heartwood, but pulling the split log into reflex wont hurt...Glenn...

[perry]

Gotta agree with Glenn Jawry . Splitting the trunk will yield better staves . regards Perry

[gnf]

Try and split it with a few chisels or with steel wedges. You can even use an axe and hammer. The steel wedges were used in days of old and works well.

[Waggs]

To split your spotted gum ask your local friendly butcher shop,offer him a six pack to run it through the band saw,word of advice,crack the first beer after the job's done,beer & bandsaws dont always mix!!!!