Are you curious about whether it’s worth milling a crazy curved walnut log? As a woodworking enthusiast, the idea of working with a unique piece of wood can be exciting. However, determining if the milling process will be worth the effort can be tricky. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of milling a curved walnut log and help you decide if it’s worth pursuing. So let’s dive in!

Milling a Crazy Curved Walnut Log – Is It Worth It?

Introduction

Milling a curved log can be a challenging task. Depending on the quality and the type of the wood, it may be worth it or not. In this article, we will discuss the process of milling a bowed walnut log using the Woodland Mills HM130 Max sawmill. We will also answer some vital questions and provide you with some useful insights.

The Process

The video shows the process of milling a crazy curved walnut log. The log has a lot of bows in it, with one end being thicker than the other. Finding the perfect spot to make the cut is key. After searching for a straight section, the log is cut into eight and six-foot boards.

Rolling The Log Manually

The video shows the process of rolling the log manually, which is an arduous task. The process requires physical strength, and it may not be feasible for everyone. If you are not fit, we advise you not to try this process by yourself.

Collecting Sawdust Using A 5-gallon Bucket

The video also shows the process of collecting sawdust in a 5-gallon bucket. While this may seem like a small detail, it is necessary to keep the area clean and safe. Moreover, it is essential to dispose of the sawdust properly after milling is done.

Wasted Cuts

The sawmill blade hits some bark resulting in wasted cuts. This is a common problem when milling logs, especially when they have bows and knots. The video illustrates how the wasted cuts can add up, which may affect the profitability of milling the wood.

Is It Worth It?

The question remains, is it worth it to mill a curved walnut log? The answer depends on various factors, such as the quality of the wood and the potential profit. Based on the video, milling a crazy curved walnut log required a significant amount of time, energy, and resources. After all, the waste material will not be used for lumber and will likely end up as firewood.

The Value Of The Wood

The value of the wood is a critical factor in determining whether milling it is worth it or not. Compared to other wood species, walnut wood is valuable and has a high demand among furniture makers, woodcarvers, and woodworkers. Therefore, if you can get a good price for the wood, it may be worth the effort.

Your Experience And Resources

If you have experience in milling wood, you may be able to save time and avoid common mistakes made by beginners. Moreover, having adequate resources, such as a robust sawmill, can make the process more efficient and less time-consuming.

What To Do With The Sawdust ?

Finally, the video ends with a question of what to do with the sawdust generated during the milling process. Well, sawdust has many uses, such as animal bedding, compost, and mulching. Therefore, it is essential to have a plan for the sawdust before starting the milling process.

Conclusion

Milling a curved walnut log can be rewarding but may also be challenging, time-consuming, and costly. It is essential to assess the quality and the potential profit of the wood before starting the process. Moreover, having adequate resources and experience can make the process more efficient and less stressful.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about milling curved walnut logs:

1. Q: What is the most challenging part of milling a curved walnut log?
   A: Finding the perfect spot to make the cut is the most challenging part of milling a curved walnut log.

2. Q: What is the value of walnut wood?
   A: Walnut wood is valuable and has a high demand among furniture makers, woodcarvers, and woodworkers.

3. Q: What can I do with the sawdust generated during the milling process?
   A: Sawdust has many uses, such as animal bedding, compost, and mulching.

4. Q: Is milling a curved walnut log a profitable endeavor?
   A: It depends on the quality and the potential profit of the wood, as well as your experience and resources.

5. Q: Is rolling the log manually a safe task?
   A: Rolling the log manually requires physical strength, and if you are not fit, it may not be safe for you to try it by yourself.