"Curb" Palm

[Bill Holt]

Got a "curb" palm this week.  Best guess is Windmill Palm.  The largest piece is about 18" in diamator.  From videos on-line, I gather a lot of palms are not good for turning.  Anyone here have experience?  Do I need to remove the pith (it is not evident)?  Do I need to seal the ends?

All advice appreciated!!!!!!!!!

[EightFingers]

I’ve turned some coconut palm. It was like a bundle of very sharp splinters. There was a very tough outside layer about an inch thick and the interior was quite soft.
It turned, but required a lot of sanding. There were no “rings” like regular wood.
Did have a nice pattern to it though.

[Bill Holt]

Thanks EightFingers.  This palm is opposit of yours.  The layer just under outer surface (close to an inch) is very soft.  The rest is fairly firm; almost as hard as white pine.

[EightFingers]

Sounds like yours would be much better for turning. I don’t turn coconut anymore unless someone requests it.

Do you have a picture of yours?

[Timberwolf]

Sounds like yours would be much better for turning. I don’t turn coconut anymore unless someone requests it.

Do you have a picture of yours?

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I have used Red Palm for a carving knife handle....Very "splintery" and not very attractive either. I won't be using it again.

[Bill Holt]

No pictures yet.

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