Popular Woodworking 2004-08 № 142, страница 68
Once loved by urbanites for its shade and woodworkers for strength, elm is preparing for a major comeback. Photo copyright Cameron Davidson Chairmaker Don Weber vigorously works at a piece of elm with an adze to form the beginnings of a chair. Hewing the seat's gentle slopes, which merge into the center pommel, is strenuous work, in part because of the nature of the act and in part because of the nature of the wood. The chairmaker, partial to Welsh stick-style chairs, continues to shape the seat with an inshave, a spokeshave, a travisher and sandpaper before it is acceptable. Working with elm, a notoriously tenacious wood, is not an easy task. Most woodworkers have never worked with elm because it's so tough. It's also not easy to find. In about 1930, a shipment of French veneer logs infested with a fungus spread by elm bark beetles arrived in the United States, decimating the population of the tree. This disease is now referred to as Dutch elm disease (commonly called DED). Today, when building furniture that will experience a lot of physical stress, we often choose other tough woods that resist splitting, such as oak and ash. Elm has become a forgotten wood. But contrary to popular belief, elm exists. What's more, it's preparing for a major comeback, and not a moment too soon. Ash trees are in grave danger and elm may soon become our "tough" wood of choice again. The Eminent Elm Elm, a porous wood with noticeable rings, is similar in weight to white birch. Its interlocking grain makes by Kara Gebhart Comments or questions? Contact Kara at 513-531-2690 ext. 1348 o kara.gebhart@fwpubs .com. 66 Popular Woodworking August 2004 |
