Checking on Elm logs

[Tanglefoot20]

Hello All.

I have got an Elm log that has checked across the face...wondering how if at all how to remove it....do I face off or cut the end off.,hopefully removing the check.
The log is about 7” diameter and 9” long
Hopefully somebody can guide me on this

 

[AJB Temple]

Do you mean 9 inches or nine feet?

Did you seal or paint the ends?

What do you mean by "checking"? Do you just mean cracks or splits.

How are you storing it?

I would probably seal the ends with paint or molten wax, and dry it slowly. I've used a lot of Elm. It moves a lot. Just have to accept that.

 

[Tanglefoot20]

Thanks for reply.. I meant it looks like a split across end face and I painted it with pva .... I just tried to remove the bark but noticed the end split.....I would like to make a vase from it but I’m a bit weary now to carry on...
Is it worth face off to see if crack/split disappears ?

Thanks

 

[Robbo3]

To turn it safely you will have to remove the split wood. As you will have to remove the bark, do so as it's a good way to see how far the split has travelled & it's not detrimental as there is little moisture loss through the side grain.
Then remove the wood as far as the split unless you want to get arty & make it a feature.
If the split has gone too far you should get two nice bowls from the two halves of the log.

 

[Tanglefoot20]

Thanks Robbo

Steve

 

[KimG]

You can of course fill the split with something, Epoxy with a coloured powder, CA with same, or just dust, as long as it isn't too severe or affecting the overall structure, strength and safety of the item, sometimes you can cut a short bit off and then lose the split by reducing the diameter, either overall, or just at the end. It all depends on the size and nature of the split.