A CRACKING OAK experiment - Woodturning project

Here's a cracking oak experiment - woodturning project. This oak was treated with ebonising fluid, texturing and Dremel routing to produce some amazing results. Watch and see the results for yourself.
If you're interested in woodturning, then this project is for you! This cracking oak was treated with ebonising, texturing and Dremel routing to produce some amazing results. Watch and see the results for yourself. From ebonising to texturing to routing, this oak project is sure to spark ideas for your own creations.
Thanks for watching and feel free to leave comments in the chat below.
Ebonising Fluid: www.ebay.co.uk...
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Laburnum Vase - www.ebay.co.uk...
Sequoia bowl - www.ebay.co.uk...
Coloured Ash bowl - www.ebay.co.uk...
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DISCLAIMER :
All of my videos are designed to be entertainment only. Please follow all required safety measures when using tools or machinery and always read and understand the manufacturer's guidelines and safety instructions.
The methods I demonstrate are not to be used as a guide for best practice. Thanks

[@GavinConwayWoodworkBBQ]

Brilliant video Mike. Great to do new things and learn by doing it. I'm a newbie but have a good engineering brain and have som ideas to throw about.. When I saw you trying the dremmel I thought what you need is it mounted to a sliding plate like you did with the marker pen. Then with the router, I thought the same to get them to be really flat and easy to move. Now you were going from left to right which is probably why you were climbing up on the line sometimes. You need to go from right to left because of the clockwise rtotation of the bits will keep it biting downwards and stop it climbing up. I believe that the router was the best option and I would also have done it in say 3 phases, Starting shallow and getting deeper each time with the base of the router touching the piece like routing a juice groove in a board. This way you could have stops either end and with the router on a sled would do a great job. Message to self: make a tool post with a flat plate to fit jigs like this 😀😀

[@MikeHolton]

Wow thanks go much Gavin! I never even considered the rotation of the bit but that makes so much sense. I'm going to pin this to the video so I can refer to it again. Thanks so much 😀

[@GavinConwayWoodworkBBQ]

@@MikeHolton its a pleasure - hope it's right 😃😃

[@BarbaraShelton-xz9vn]

Half the fun of your videos is hearing you work through problems as they occur. A dynamic lesson in creative thinking. As to the safety info, I think people will absorb the lessons better in short bursts as opposed to in a single show. By the way: love the bowl.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Barbara, I may ending up doing both so people can have one central resource to refer to and drip feed in other bits when appropriate to the turning 😀

[@ronniekeates3349]

There's just too many great parts of this video to listen them all. Thanks again for being You and doing Your Thing! Every video is a treat. Cheers, Mike!

[@MikeHolton]

Wow thanks so much Ronnie, that means so much to me, all the best, Mike 😃

[@JosephCarpenter-sq7rk]

​Oct or hu hu

[@ZXLMaster]

Your projects look well. Wood is way more flexible than working with metals.

[@MikeHolton]

You have that right, look back on my video's and you will see me having a go at turning aluminium 😀

[@mattgraham4025]

I think it's awesome that you try new things and that you're not afraid to show your mistakes. Thanks for all your amazing content.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks so much for that Matt, I want to show that it's fine to experiment, every time I fail I learn something new and get better, the first step is always the hardest but you only have to take it once. All the best, Mike 😃

[@Angela-en6oh]

Hello Mike. I really enjoyed the work you carried out on this piece. As someone who has never turned wood, I appreciate you sharing your thought process as you move through each stage. It certainly helped me understand a little of the difficulties you face with each piece of wood; it’s presentation and how you address, overcome and resolve issues as they arise. And this may, in your terms, be an experimental piece, but it is still beautiful and you should be very proud of what you have achieved. My sincere congratulations.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks so much Angela, you are really so kind and I always look forward to your comments, they always seem to make me feel good. All the best, Mike 😀

[@garyjohnson9297]

By all means make a sled to hold your rotary tool . Your ebonising fluid contains an acid , and probably ferric iron oxide that react with the tannins in the oak You can make your own by soaking ground oak bark in solution of water and either ferric iron oxide or wire wool . The resulting fluid will be black india ink and will penitrate the wood and will be a perminant black that over time will brown the surrounding wood in a faint ring Have you used a propane or butane torch ? If you do , give the lathe area a good hoover to eliminat the fire hazzard . Nice job When I am applying any cheicals to work on my lathe , i always lay down a board that I cut to cover the bedways , or a piece of news paper or shop towels so that I dont have to scrub up with spirits or solvents

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks so much for your advice and input, I have made my own solution before with iron(II) sulphate (FeSO4) and tanic acid which produces an iron gall ink, a recipe that has been around for 100's years, this ink is permanent and will not fade in sunlight. All the best and thanks again, Mike

[@dianadougherty7187]

Thankyou for teaching us something new and also for the jig instructions I really enjoy your channel

[@MikeHolton]

My pleasure Diana, that the first jig I have ever made for my lathe 😃

[@philgallagher1]

Great experiment, Mike! I think you tend to be a little hard on yourself! Apart from a couple of catches, this project went really well and the ebonising in particular looked really impressive!! The premise of your channel (as you say) is to get out of your comfort zone and learn new stuff. Well you've certainly done it with this one! Keep up the good work, sir. It's fascinating, wondering what's going to come next!

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks so much Phil, I love to try new things and every time I fail I learn something new, all I have to do now is remember what I did wrong the next time I try it 😂

[@loranwfry-zu9pu]

Very nice work Mike. Thank you for trying new stuff. That's why I watch your channel.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Loran, the next time I try this is will be better 😃

[@nanalefevre3670]

Wow ! This one really had me watching. I went from ..what the heck? To..oh no! To huh? To...Wellll.. Mr.Mike did his magic again!!! Very nice indeed. You sir are amazing when you get going.

[@MikeHolton]

Haha thanks Nana, I was a little worried I may not get to the end but it was ok 😁

[@nanalefevre3670]

@@MikeHolton You kidding? It was great!

[@MikeHolton]

@@nanalefevre3670 Thanks, you are so kind 😀

[@4fhomeandfarm832]

Beautiful work. I really enjoy the fact that you showed that when trying something new it dosnt always come out as planned or as perfect as you would like.

[@MikeHolton]

You are so welcome, this is real life and I want to inspire people to have a go and let them realise that failing or something not coming out perfect is fine, it's just the first step 😀

[@williamweaver4946]

I like that you show your experiments and not just throwing out a perfect project. That is not the case in many situations. Still loved the way it turned out. Great job as always Mike!

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks William, I want to inspire people to have a go and let them realise that failing is no big deal and is just part of the process, the first step is always the hardest but you only have to take it once. All the best, Mike 😀

[@stevedoran3631]

I honestly thought that project was going to end a disaster with all the deep cracks that were evident, but as usual, your gift for getting the best out of the wood came to the for again...... nice work Mike!

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Steve, I appreciate that, all the best, Mike

[@SusanJamiesonKennedy]

My first husband did beautiful wood turning.

[@MikeHolton]

And your second? 😀

[@sandracook455]

Love how you are always trying new ways of turning wood

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Sandra 😀

[@louisjackson4634]

I love the enthusiasm for pushing the envelope. Not sure I like the ebonising (I’m a huge fan of seeing the natural grain pop) but I love the routing pattern!

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Louis, ebonising is not for everyone but personally I do like it. All the best, Mike

[@loopinnerthe]

Is that a KPR31D or the KPR31C air filter for the DAF XG 530 2019 Model? I know they switched to the active carbon "C" version around 2019/20. It is a great shape and a great concept, looking forward to you refining the approach and drawing spirals and butterflies on the next one. Seems so contrary for someone that makes wood round to be drawing straight lines... which look completely unforgiving in their need for precision. Pushing outside the comfort zone. My own hobby is totally in the doldrums and you have inspired me to get some books out and move myself on.

[@MikeHolton]

Close it's a 3M HF-802SD mask. So glad I have inspired you to get back to your hobby, all the best, Mike 😀

[@stephanielovatt2787]

It is great that your channel focuses on going outside your comfort zone! This gives the viewer great variety, and the insight to give it a go, too. Thank you!

[@MikeHolton]

Thank you so much Stephanie, I don't mind having a go and making mistakes if it can help inspire people to try. All the best, Mike

[@katelinnett9020]

Someday, when you're in between projects, would you make a video giving us a tour of your workshop and tools? I think it would be fascinating!

[@MikeHolton]

haha thanks Kate, it would not be a very long video, my workshop is about 12ft x 8ft, video would take about 30 seconds 😂

[@dalebrittenham1823]

Great experiment.... No project is perfect... Only gets better with practice.... Keep on going Mike

[@MikeHolton]

Exactly Dale, the first step is the hardest but you only have to take it once 😀

[@CarlLong-m4g]

A VERY nice piece! So many possibilities, dozens of fluting shapes, sizes, patterns, finish materials and techniques! Hope you will continue to experiment. Those flutes almost beg for some brightly colored resin, or a bit of metal foil. Or lightly sand so that a bit of the bare wood shows through here and there as if the ebonizing had worn down by years of handling. OK I'll shut up!

[@MikeHolton]

Haha thanks Carl, please don't shut up you were giving me loads of inspiration. I like the thought of metal foil. I have some (fake) gold leaf that would look pretty good in there, so many ideas so much time 😀

[@frankashworth5961]

"Oops. Blimey" That wasn't a gouge, my friend. How difficult is it for you to receive native woods from, perhaps, North Carolina, U.S.? I would enjoy sending you some pieces/specimens, if there aren't any reasons for you to have them sent. I can not recall if I have seen that you have turned hardwoods or softwoods from this region.

[@MikeHolton]

Hi Frank, that is a lovely offer but the cost of sending wood to the UK is very high and to get it through our customs all the bark has to be removed first. What types of wood do you have in that region? All the best, Mike

[@donaldadams5342]

An outstanding experimental piece Mike. I think I have made it clear that I am all for people taking themselves out of their comfort zone. If we don't do this then our work becomes boring both to ourselves & to others. We become a monotonous mass production line & creativity just disappears. 'Onwards & Upwards' should become our adopted motto. Then we will produce exciting pieces that will inspire us to experiment & go on to bigger & better things. Yes, little mistakes will occur from time to time as you have in one of the 'flutes' on this piece. Love your work, your attitude & approach to your work as well as being able to listen To your wonderful, relaxed commentary style. Great stuff mate, keep it going & cheers, Don from South Australia.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks so much Don and I could not agree with you more. I'm in a very lucky situation where I don't put pressure on myself to produce one masterpiece after another, I just find something I want to try and then figure out how to do it, if it works then great if I fail or make mistakes then I learn even more. No matter what happens I come out ahead. All the best my friend, Mike

[@davidbaxter5132]

Well, Mike, this video has certainly achieved the aim of experimenting ... and raised quite a mixed bag of comments! I made some 'cup cake' boxes with fluted sides using a small router on a home made jig, the body of which sits on the lathe bed; it is very accurate and pretty easy to use once 'in the groove' (every pun intended). Separately, I have experimented with ebonizing fluid (home made with white vinegar and old nails and assorted metals - credit to Richard Raffan for the tutorial on that one) on oak - used with gold embellishing paste it worked a dream. I picked up your suggestion to try it on cherry - another idea added to the 'to do' list, thank you! I am intrigued by the suggestion in the comments to re-turn the body of your vase to reveal the grain on the flutes; I think that would look stunning. .. and finally, the 'discovery' of the small bead/ lip at the shoulder was genius to keep it. Thank you, as always Mike; excellent video.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks so much David, if you get time can you send me a picture of the jig you made for your router? This is the first jig I've ever made so would love to see what you did. All the best my friend 😀

[@rogerpearson6232]

One of the members of Woodturning club I belong to has demo'd his fluting fixture. He purchased it at SWAT a few years ago. Very similar to what you were doing except router was affixed to a cradle that would move on platform similar to what you used. I really like the ebonizing. Will have to try it on some cherry or oak. Very cool.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Roger, I know there is equipment out there to do it easily but I want to help inspire people to have a go at making their own, we all know how expensive some of these jigs can be 😀

[@bnaivar]

A very Groovy project Mike. ;) I've sworn off working with Oak because of the cracking problem.

[@MikeHolton]

Yes it can be bad but I just try and work around them or work with them 😃

[@nicholaskrest]

Really impressive exercise Mike Some might even say” groovy” ;) What you have successfully succeeded in doing in getting me to have a go. I took a handsome piece of laburnum log from the log pile and turned a couple of live edge small bowls (Inspired by your vase you are about to auction!) Good luck with that and may you buy more lovely wood to educate and entertain us all with the proceeds.

[@MikeHolton]

Hi Nicholas, I have taken every penny I made so far from the auctions and managed to get some beautiful pieces of wood for us to have a look at. You will see the first one next Tuesday 😀

[@kellogs101101]

Like that video a lot Mike. I was thinking as you were texturing that I wouldn’t even begin trying that…..then you discussed stepping outside of your comfort zone….couldn’t agree more and thanks for the nudge 👍👍

[@MikeHolton]

Glad you enjoyed it, you only have to take that first step once and always remember it's ok to fail, the more you fail the more you learn. All the best, Mike 😀

[@williamriley-u5l]

Hello Mike. Interesting, very interesting. I like the way you went about your learning process in figuring out how to cut the flutes. It certainly is a less complicated way to do it than some other ways I've seen before involving large routers and costly pre-made jigs and all. While this is not one of your more beautiful pieces, it is....interesting. LOL. You used a grinding stone to cut the flutes. I know Dremel makes a smaller steel ball with circular flutes in it. Maybe called a burr remover? I can't remember. I know it is used in small detail carving work in wood and other materials. Maybe they make a larger version that would make cutting and cleaning easier? Take care and keep turning and learning. Bill Riley.

[@MikeHolton]

Hi Bill, the bit I used in the Dremel was a Kutzall bit which does remove a lot of material, there is still a lot to learn in this process but I will carry on and let you see how I get on. I will not be buying am expensive jig as I want people to be able to afford to have a go as well. All the best, Mike 😀

[@fionanaylor6104]

Hooch nearly took off at the beginning 🙂 TY for the vid, and for experimenting. Inpatient ward atm 🙄 so to have this and your back catalogue to watch is brill. Hopefully nasty brain weasels will go away so I can get home and make some rocking horse poo for xmas. 🤞🏻🙏😃

[@MikeHolton]

He did indeed, but never complained once. Glad I'm there to keep you company, take care and get back to the rocking horse poo soon, these things do not make themselves 😘

[@DecapitatedPlaythings]

I'd love to see Mike do a few pieces using Koa and Quilted Maple.. It would look amazing!

[@MikeHolton]

That would be cool! 😃

[@andrewhall1693]

Braw work Mike ....I like the tip for the tool rest and router stops .....I think it would make a fantastic table lamp ....how about doing that as a project sometime ? ....I was impressed with the ebonising solution ...much better than my efforts with vinegar and cast iron.....once again thanks for sharing

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Andrew, I made a lamp about 2 months ago, the video was called knobs on or knobs off lol. I have an idea for another lamp soon but it is not a standard one 😃

[@RoyWCanada]

Hi Mike. Well you get 100% for effort on the fluting it turned out great for the first time. The oak looks gorgeous. Again your decisions and artistic design have blended together to produce an excellent Vase. Thanks for the video looking forward to the next one. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks so much Roy, I really enjoyed making this one 😀

[@cudamank]

Nice work..if.you learned something new, it's always a good day. Haven't tried ebonizing or texture. You have encouraged me to try both.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Mark and if you try it please let me know how you get on, all the best, Mike😀

[@marybeth17]

This was my 1st video from your channel. To me this bowl came out beautiful. Congrats🎉 I did subscribe to your channel.

[@MikeHolton]

Awesome! Thank you Mary and welcome, we are a friendly bunch and I hope you decide to stay a while. All the best, Mike 😀

[@kensmith1522]

Fun experiment, I was talking through the video device. Mike use a router lol… I think another fun experiment would be after the pieces is routed out and ebonized to then go back with the Dremel and gingerly. Remove an amount of the ebonized wood in the center of the channel. I really liked the contrast there with the matching color of the natural Oak above… I think it could still be done on that piece and would even be a fun go back video and would present a visual enhancement.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks, that's a great idea 🤠

[@williamfawkes8379]

If you ever try this again, try the dremel without the flexshaft. There are a number of faceplates that you can use to ride a sled. And its just a bit easier to control with the weight of the tool helping you. Come to think of it, I just had an interesting idea. I wonder if I could attach the dremel to the toolrest and use the pivoting of the toolrest to steady the tool? This would allow me to take careful shallow nibbles and perhaps then keep the dremel from being smashed by the lathe. Of course that wood be another sort of design/texture, but I think I will try that out. Well for good or ill, you've inspired me today! Thanks.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks so much for the ideas, really appreciate it 😊

[@stevebettany8778]

Experimenting is what keeps my interest in my woodworking I’m not a turner but the same thing applies. At this time of year I’m stuck making bandsaw reindeer and such due to demand. Roll on the new year and some wacky boxes and the like. Love your work it looks fun.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Steve, I know what you mean, I have a load of small laburnum logs waiting to be turned into Christmas trees, I will get them done but I much prefer experimenting 😀

[@micahallen3093]

Love your channel Mike. While I didn't like the look of the end product here, it was so fun to watch and learn along with you. That oak really seemed to present some interesting challenges and it is fascinating to watch you master this craft. I would love to bid on that Sequoia bowl - where can we find you on Ebay? Thanks for a great channel!

[@MikeHolton]

Hi Micah, many thanks and I know the style/finish is not for everyone, it would be a very dull world if we all liked the same. You can find all of my eBay listings here: www.ebay.co.uk/usr/mike-holton?_trksid=p4429486.m3561.l2559 All the best, Mike

[@jeramiahcrosier3481]

Thanks Mike - I have thought about doing something similar, and your efforts will help me in my future projects!

[@MikeHolton]

Glad you found it useful, you should certainly have a better idea what not to do 😀

[@MaryHyso]

Ebonizing product works nicely! Vertical stripes are slimming - oh wait, what?

[@MikeHolton]

Haha thanks Mary 😀

[@JohnHoatson-pq4kk]

The router jigs were clever and saved a lot of time. Well done. I am not sure of the ebony , was not black enough but a good start. Thank you. Jc😊.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks John, experimentation is great fun 😊

[@petwog]

Interesting video. I love oak. You can make your own ebonizing solution by dissolving steel wool in 6% acetic acid (cleaning vinegar). I made some and it's quite unbelievable!

[@MikeHolton]

he there, I have made it like this as well, also another method using Iron II sulphate 😀, they are great fun to play with.

[@huberthicks9080]

I agree with you idea to have a ‘sled’ or whatever for the Drexel to keep the flutes consistent. Second try…much better. Thoroughly enjoyed watching.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Hubert, the first step is always the hardest but you only have to take it once 😀

[@marcfava9789]

Looks great. Every think we try adds to our flavor. Woodworking is like music. The more we learn the more the work we do has our fingerprint and is recognizable as ours. Good work.

[@MikeHolton]

You are so right, I never thought of myself as having a style but now I think about it I guess I do. Not sure if it's any good but I like it 😀

[@laweiner1]

Hi Mike, Love the oak vase and you methodically deal with the challenges of the wood. I would like to see what you use ton sharpen your tools and how you do it. Maybe a video on tool sharpening? Thanks for your informative videos. My best, Larry

[@MikeHolton]

Hi Larry, I will do one fairly soon, all the best, Mike 😀

[@trevormoore4880]

Great work plus your presentation of your projects is very welcome as your thoughts make it a pleasure to watch and learn ❤

[@MikeHolton]

Thank you very much Trevor, all the best, Mike 😀

[@MaxVanHorn-wk5ni]

Very interesting project. I can see several possible uses for ebonizing. Thanks much

[@MikeHolton]

You are welcome Max, I have a few more ideas as well 😁

[@lv_woodturner3899]

A very good experiment. Well done. Glad the cracks were not a problem. What you think about this new ebonizing product vs indian ink? How well the wood grain is able to be seen, relative darkness. I was shouting at the monitor that you needed the dremel tool being held in a block. Glad you changed to the hand held router with the flat edge base which worked so much better. For your viewers, an easier platform is a piece of wood board/plywood mounted on a wooden dowel of the tool post diameter. Dave.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks as always Dave, I did consider the dowel idea but I had it all on the lathe by then and all my broom handles were the wrong size 😃. This seems to come out a lot better than the Indian ink I've used in the past and the finish is a lot better. All the best, Mike

[@Tseringlhatso]

The upper section has a gorgeous grain. It's entirely a personal thing but I don't like stripes (or polka dot patterns) they can actually make me feel slightly nauseous! Really interesting piece though, great video as always 😊

[@MikeHolton]

I appreciate that and I know it's not for everyone, I think you may have trypophobia, which is far more common than I thought!

[@heatherharcrow6156]

I could do without the high pitched noise. But love the outcome

[@peterthornton8520]

You did say that you wanted to use the channel for experimenting amongst other things.You certainly have experimented today and believe it or not, you have achieved your goal. By ebonising the wood you have effectively camouflaged the imperfections so well that the end result is pretty good. Great effort and looking forwards to the next one you produce. I would think using a smaller diameter router will give you very good definition. Cheers.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks so much Peter, I don't have much of a selection of router bits but now I have a better idea of what I'm doing I can invest 😃

[@teresamcfadden2414]

That was a great learning experiment. I love oak I think it’s a beautiful wood. The ebonizing of the wood is interesting to watch. Thank you for sharing.

[@MikeHolton]

You are more than welcome Teresa, all the best, Mike 😀

[@BulletTing]

Great vase, love that ypu tried something different and challenge yourself. Considering getting a little lathe myself to make cups and bowls as a hobby.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks! All I can say is do it, it's a great way to relax, swich off from the outside world and have fun 😀

[@TimMaidment]

I love hearing your thought processes as you work each piece out - have never seen ebonising before so that process was an eye-opener. Got some reason I'd got it mixed up with scorching. Anyway, thanks again for a great video :)

[@MikeHolton]

You are so welcome Tim, scorching is similar they both can give a similar colour but scorching can leave an amazing texture on the grain. All the best, Mike

[@79Firegirl]

I really like your style of working.. pushing your self every time, same here.. only in smaller scale 😅. You inspire me every time again and again. Thank you 😊 and keep it up 💪💪

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks so much, small scale is just as hard if not more so, if I make a mistake I just take the wood down further, small scale does not allow for that 😃

[@taysider01]

Your head must be full of ideas that you want to try out. Anyone that wants to try this has all trail's and tribulations done by yourself. Love your thought process and telling us. Great Frist go Mike. Look forward to next video

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks so much my friend, I have so many ideas I have to write them down 🤣

[@Amybaumgart]

What a very clever alternative to a fluting jig with a router!!! I have often wanted to do something like this, but did not want to figure out the whole router thing… good for you! Thanks so much for sharing your experiments!!

[@MikeHolton]

You are welcome Amy, I will be trying more so keep an eye out 😀

[@gregdownunderinOz]

Thanks for sharing Mike. You are a real inspiration and a great problem solver. I’m glad you used router and jig eventually

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks, I'm a slow learner but I get there in the end lol 😂

[@shelleygreer915]

Cool experiment! I love learning from you like this. Looks like a great idea for turning a lamp as well.😊

[@MikeHolton]

Thank you! Cheers Shelley 😁

[@DerekRiley-t8r]

The ebonising looks interesting - another purchase in my woodturning journey to try it out, thanks for the inspiration 😀. The laburnum looks incredible, will be looking for some of that now. 👍

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Derek 😃

[@thenash4822]

Interesting experiment Mike, and entertaining video. The ebonizing treatment is very different and the way it works is very interesting. That oak has a very pretty grain that's highlighted by the ebony finish. Enjoy learning these things with you on your channel.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks my friend, all the best, Mike

[@ArnoPf]

Great you also show your struggles and that it is a mix of continuos learning and above all creativity! After the first bowls or spindles everyone should enter this chapter...and that the fun part with every piece of wood you will turn

[@MikeHolton]

So true, mistakes are all part of the learning process and are essential to better understanding, all the best, Mike 😀

[@beniborukhov9436]

I realize this goes against the whole idea of the video but the fluting was just screaming CNC machining to me. Interesting project.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Ben, it is against the idea but I would LOVE to give that a go one day 😀

[@RaspberryBerets]

Very interesting. A good learning experience watching the video. Thank you.

[@MikeHolton]

Glad you enjoyed it! All the best, Mike 😃

[@mattspear2163]

Love your videos. Just want to keep watching. Your creativity is amazing

[@MikeHolton]

Thank you so much!

[@DavidBird-uu8km]

Very Nice. This is good use of spindle indexing. It is pleasure to see you work. A great job in using jigs to help the set up. You are great at working out the solutions too a problem. I would use a test tube so I could put flowers in it for my Wife.

[@MikeHolton]

Thank you very much David, I have used test tubes before and have a pile waiting for a future use 😃

[@fryeguy9939]

I think I would have put the grooves further apart, or just on one end , or alternated them top and bottom.. Something to think about I seen on a different video where a guy used chisel to cut the grooves..

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks for the thoughts, this was a first for me so lots to learn 😀

[@tonyalton8470]

A neoclassical appearance, quite at odds with the material which is interesting. Multiple levels of experimentation. Keep it up!

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Tony, now I have an idea what I'm doing I know I can do a lot better 😀

[@jeanlong4285]

You are very brave to try all the different things on one piece. The ebonizing looks dark blue? Is it really black? It turned out very nice.

[@MikeHolton]

Before the finish going on it did look blue 😁

[@bizzie1956]

The worst thing is the amount of fishing tackle that I have seemed to have got I emptied my large tackle bag last week now there is so much stuff in my bag I can hardly lift it I thought that I could cut down on the amount I took fishing but I always seem to take everything with me just in case I need it

[@MikeHolton]

Haha sounds like it could be a problem 😀

[@aldademoura7738]

Thank you for charing this beautiful experiment. Love it 😊

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Alda 😊

[@arnhemseptember2009]

I think you could brighten the piece with beautiful wood inlay and re-turn and polish.. To me this is really too dark.

[@MikeHolton]

Hi there and yes I think you are right, I did consider turning back the base of the vase back to bare wood but still may do it at a later date.

[@laweiner1]

How deep into the grain does the ebonizing fluid go? I ask because it would be an interesting contrast to sand off the blackened surface leaving the grooves black.

[@MikeHolton]

It goes in about 1mm but I can't be exact. I did consider that 😀

[@dlh567]

The black is striking, but not my cup of tea. I dislike how hard it is to see the grain, though maybe it's better in person than on KZbin?

[@MikeHolton]

I love the black for one great reason, it hides my mistakes so well 😂. All the best, Mike

[@shaunofthegeeks]

Still enjoying watching the channel Mike and love to see the variety and experimentation. Great seeing the increase in Subs as well!

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks so much Shaun, I still feel like it's all a dream 😂, all the best, Mike 😀

[@Zander1509]

An interesting experiment. The lip you left at the bottom of the neck was very effective in defining the edge of the ebonised wood. Was that another grass tree root I spotted in the background or just an ebonised traffic cone 😊

[@MikeHolton]

Haha you're the second person to notice 😂 I'll be turning it soon

[@danamorrow5352]

I have used vinegar and steel wool on some projects before but never anything like this. It did a great job. It would be fun to experiment to see what type of effects you could get with it.

[@MikeHolton]

I was thinking just the same thing Dan, more fun for the future 😃

[@Amybaumgart]

What are your thoughts on the difference between using an ebonizing compound vs India ink?

[@MikeHolton]

Good question, in my experience ebonising fluid can take more of a sanding before letting the lighter wood show through as it seems to penetrate deeper but both are good.

[@vincenthardman7691]

Thank you for sharing the experience. Looks great with the contrasting colours.

[@MikeHolton]

Thank you! Cheers Vince, first step is taken so now I can work on getting better 😁

[@brycegenevaostler9359]

I have to give it to you. You keep trying even when things start looking bad. The router was a better choice in the tool to put in he flutes. A smaller bit may have not caused the tear out on the next flute. Keep up the good work.🙂

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Bryce, the second you stop trying is the second you stop learning. Taking that first step in a new direction is hard but you only have to take it once. You are right about the bit being too big, I don't have a great selection of bits and this was the most suitable one I had, not I know it works I can invest in a few more 😀

[@DavidCreech-hz2ox]

I love the ebonising and it's reassuring to see it's not just us newbies that have mishaps. Why do you get rid of the sap wood, especially as it can look great?

[@MikeHolton]

Hi David, many thanks, I got rid of it as I was not sure how differently the ebonising fluid would work on it, all the best, Mike

[@tombruno3986]

Mike, you make me want to go to our community wood shop and jump on a lathe. Sadly, it closed now. However, you do inspire me.

[@MikeHolton]

That is such a shame Tom, there may be some turning clubs near to you 😀

[@ElmerMiller-cr6mj]

The flutes shaped by the router seem to need significant sanding. Oak with its open grain is tough to smooth but this result looks too rough. More refinement could really make this great idea pop

[@MikeHolton]

You're right, I'm still considering taking this all back to bare wood and experimenting some more on it.

[@RenaLarson61]

It's very different, I do enjoy hearing your thought processes as you create a piece, it's not my favorite piece that you've done, but it's interesting

[@MikeHolton]

Thank you very much, it's fine not to like something, this is not my favourite either 😀

[@artfx9]

Oi!

[@MikeHolton]

😀

[@chammers7377]

was going to say that you could use a router if you didn't feel the flutes were refined enough... you also could build a box to surround the piece so you reference the router's base as intended, though it wouldn't really follow the form of the piece unless you built one specifically for that

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks, I certainly have a better idea now of what I need to do to make this better and will certainly be giving it a go 😀

[@mattclutterbuck9318]

Hy love your KZbin’s very educational could you please let me know where you get your labels made thanks matt

[@MikeHolton]

Hi Matt, I get these from Stickersinternational.com they are just foil stickers but work so well 😀

[@haroldhoskison7239]

Very interesting video. I like your ability to adapt ways to come new way to achieve your out come.

[@MikeHolton]

I appreciate that Harold, where there is a will there is a way and if that fails you try another way and keep going till you get there 😃

[@garyjohnson9297]

You can make a rod to drive your vases , buy taking a piece of rod stock and grind three or four spurs on the tip , and either grip in a Jachobs chuck on a morse taper mandrill or grip in scroll chock . Insert your vase and press the spurs in to the botton and bring up tail stock with a live centre and a pressure block or a rubber friction block

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks again Gary, invaluable advice al always, all the best, Mike

[@damianlee8149]

The experimental nature of this piece is fascinating. So glad you left the neck as natural oak as the ebonising process loses some of the beauty

[@MikeHolton]

Thank you very much, these things need to be tried 😀

[@tracybranham8648]

Great challenge . For a first try it is a beautiful vase. Even with the little knicked piece. I love it that way. ❤

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks so much Tracey 😁 really appreciate that 😊

[@LoisHubbard]

Really like the approach Mike. Can't wait to see what you do with your new found skills.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Lois, I have so many ideas I think my brain may explode 😀

[@82ndairbornevet]

Not sure if I was going to like the ebony color, but it turned out really nice. The flute’s turned out really nice as well.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks, my techniques need work but we are getting there 😀

[@johnwoods9995]

Very daring and brave to use router and cuts all, love it, inspiring, thanks mate

[@MikeHolton]

Glad you enjoyed it John 😁

[@OzfGP35]

I'm not sure if l like this shape of vase, but l do like the ebonised effect & ur groovy pattern 😎

[@MikeHolton]

I have no problem with that Karen, if we all liked the same thing it would be a very dull world 😀

[@Diarmuid-Quirke]

I might have to make a bid on the ash bowl the colour is extraordinary. Keep up the great work

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks so much, I appreciate your support, all the best, Mike 😀

[@philforeman7102]

Good on ya man! Great start . Because of you I’m going to try one Cheers Phil

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks Phil, that's great to hear, let me know how you get on 😀

[@neongrey333]

i do like the ebonizing effect a lot, goth that i am. it leaves me torn because the natural wood is so beautiful too, so I do like that you get both with this piece.

[@MikeHolton]

Thanks, there is a lot going on with this piece 😀