Velvet Mesquite Tree Trunk on the Lathe

Finally getting around to turning this tree trunk.

It was the only one small enough for me to lift into the bed of my truck.

I sealed the ends with latex paint, but it cracked anyways.

The heartwood was bright orange when it was fesh cut, but after a year of seasoning, it developed a rich purple hue.

I tried to rough out a shape that would save some of the sapwood.

As I started to hollow it, I decided I had to do something to control the cracks.

Going with some dovetail keys.

Still a bunch more to do, then I will put some finish on.

See ya,
Skycranehandwork