Problems?

[Democritus]

I have been given a section of Monkey Puzzle tree trunk. It is very dry.
I have never turned this wood before, but some turner friends tell me that it is difficult stuff to turn, particularly in respect to the heartwood.
Any advice, please.

 

[Orraloon]

Not something I have turned but with sharp tools and the right approach it should be doable. The branches tend to come out like spokes from a wheel all at the same level so a lot of turners use that as a feature. That means you will be cutting hard and soft wood as the thing spins. Its basically a pine but the knots will be a lot harder than the rest so the tools will have to be kept sharp. Here in Oz there is a similar tree the Norfolk Island pine (NIP for short) and a lot of turners like it but others are not so keen. I would say do some research and then make an informed decision. Anyhow this clip shows it can be done.
Woodturning - The Monkey Puzzle - YouTube
Regards
John

 

[Phil Pascoe]

Both Araucarias.

 

[Tris]

Just to add to John's points above you will be turning end grain rather than the usual cross grain bowl orientation. Not too hard if you've ever turned goblets.

 

[Democritus]

Thanks guys. I wondered if it might make a vase or some such, maybe a couple of boxes. I’ll gird my loins and give it a go.

 

[Andy's Shed]

Have a look at Mike Holton's YouTube channel if you get the chance, he's turned a couple of pieces of Monkey Puzzle. We'll worth watching.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdpT7XxLFXxRvjh5SqlIXhQ