Woodturning: The Burl of Insanity!

Thank you all so much for watching! This piece of Chechen Burl was given to me by one of my viewers, John Miller, a retired professional woodturner who now works by commission doing custom woodturnings. Huge "THANK YOU!" to John for sending over such a beautiful piece!
This is my 24th filmed project, and in my efforts to do justice to this amazing piece of burl, I promptly made the project ten times more difficult than it could have been by taking the wrong first pass with the bowl gouge. That meant I lost some of the natural edge that I intended to keep, which also meant I was forced to undercut the rim in order to save the natural edge. By the way, don't sand with two fingers against the spin of the lathe. It's not smart, and I ended up nearly spraining my fingers after catching the sand paper on the piece. Anyway, black palm is not wood. It is insanely brittle and aggressively unpleasant stuff to turn. Actually, palm is not even technically wood. It is a non-homogenous monocot, similar to grass and held together by what is called "parenchyma". The eagle-eyed may have noticed that the splinters coming off the black palm were almost like needles and just as hard and sharp. But all that work and headache is an afterthought when finishing.
Cheers to all! Let me know what you think!
If you're new to the channel, please consider subscribing! Also, please like the video and comment, letting me know how I'm doing and what you'd like me to make next. Getting your feedback really helps to promote my videos and channel, and I always love reading and responding!
Get 15% off at Starbond with the promo code ADAMSEN15: www.starbond.com/?rfsn=347467...
Frogblanks.com has generously provided a 15% discount (not combinable with other offers) if you use code "YT-DAVID". Use that code and it will help me out too!
If you're interested in my other projects or contacting me for a commission, check out my website:
www.adamsenwoodcraft.com
All of the music used in this video came from:
www.epidemicsound.com/referra...
Thanks again! Cheers!
Products I use:
Minwax wood stabilizer: amzn.to/3RICKWu
Starbond Clear Thin CA glue: amzn.to/3z0sZdz
Starbond Clear Medium CA glue: amzn.to/3Bb6aqr
Starbond Clear Thick CA glue: amzn.to/3oqiXxE
Starbond Medium Brown CA glue: amzn.to/3PPUIUW
Starbond Medium-Thick Black CA glue: amzn.to/3IWDYsY
Starbond Activator: amzn.to/3v9r8Ca
TotalBoat Penetrating Epoxy: amzn.to/3zr1MSH
TotalBoat Thickset Epoxy: amzn.to/3PtTkrw
TotalBoat Tabletop Epoxy: amzn.to/3oke5tQ
Mylands cellulose sanding sealer: amzn.to/3cd0BgF
Mahoney's Finishes Walnut Wax: amzn.to/3IzSBT5
Mahoney's Finishes Walnut Oil: amzn.to/3Puc61l
Turntable for glamour shots: amzn.to/3yH4AcO
Easy Wood Tools Carbide Cutter: amzn.to/3z6E6Db
Easy Wood Tools Carbide Cutter (negative rake): amzn.to/3yH6JVN
Beall buffing system: amzn.to/2BC90YG
3 inch Sanding Disks: amzn.to/2Zc6ccY
Makita right angle drill/sander: amzn.to/2A54CkB
My favorite finish (Mahoney's Walnut products): amzn.to/31uM88z
Pyrography Pen: amzn.to/2G5HJwU
Carter & Son 5/8" Bowl Gouge: amzn.to/2G5YV5g
Crown Diamond Parting Tool: amzn.to/2NIqsOj
Tormek T-8 Sharpener with Woodturners Accessories: amzn.to/30D2iKA
Five minute epoxy: amzn.to/2udSavt
My camera: amzn.to/34Ef0Mo
My microphone: amzn.to/3APkRPM

[@Eph432]

I cannot believe this magnificent, majestic and marvelous piece of art is coming to me! We are looking for a quiet, mirrored, rotating display stand to do it justice. This is a piece that deserves to be admired from every angle. A spectacular blessing that will be appreciated all the days of my life! The Burl Runneth Over… as does my heart… not only when I look at it, but when I think of my wonderful husband and a wood turner whose hands have been touched by God. It all takes my breath away. Thank you!! I am truly honored. 🙏🏽🙌🏽

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you so much, Grace! I hope you enjoy it!

[@stanhutchins6592]

This piece is a work of extreme art. Absolutely beautiful. Fantastic job

[@saltycreole2673]

This piece is spectacularly beautiful in movement, color, execution and style. What an honor for you to possess it. Blessings.

[@user-bx5zd8sf2w]

А что это такое? Это имеет свое практическое применение или это красивая бессмыслица? И прошу вас, люди, не сотворяйте себе кумира. Да, мастер молодец, но он всего лишь талантливый и старательный художник. То, что вы говорите, это перебор. Так можно славословить восхищаться лишь Богом и Его творением. Но часто ли вы это делаете?

[@sadkak9938]

ALLAH faydasız hiç bir şey yaratmamıştır. Sobaya atılmaya layık görünen bir odun parçasında, Allahın müthiş sanatı gizli. David bu sanatın görünmesini sağladı.

[@snowysnowyriver]

Mr Adamsen......you are insanely talented!! 👏👏👏 I hope you enjoy a long and fruitful career bringing these beautiful pieces to life.

[@DavidAdamsen]

Cheers! I appreciate that!

[@Roosters-rants1977]

All of those expensive, exotic woods. You did them all justice. They are all married and united into art.

[@marycatherinelebouef-op4hf]

You have totally outdone yourself! This is a masterpiece that belongs in a woodworking museum! This is so awesome, gorgeous, vintage looking, beautiful work of art! Wowza! Bravo!

[@madamroache279]

I love how a lot of the comments seem to be close friends of his, it's so heart warming

[@bryanholden6487]

Wood turners! ;-)

[@joemccoy6318]

You are one of the finest artists I’ve ever seen. Bar none.

[@jibentack]

I am mystified that anyone would give this video a "thumbs-down" This is exquisite work. I did some lathe work 60 some years ago in high school and I remember loving it. I wish I could do it today. Thank you for your contribution to the beauty in the world.

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you Philip!

[@cindygigliotti3538]

People don’t realize how much talent and hard work it is to create something like this.

[@hotdrumchick]

It’s amazing how artisans see what’s inside something we might think as scrap, but the vision goes through their hands and brings the beauty out.

[@SingingWillow]

Watching this was an ethereal experience. I’m awestruck by your talent and mesmerized by your work. Simply beautiful!

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you Linda!

[@susielopresti7879]

Oh my! You posted this three years ago and it stands the test of time. I see how much you respect the wood you are turning. I love your work and appreciate your care and expertise. Susie

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thanks very much, Susie!

[@zildog]

Reminds me of us floating in space. Amazing vision and craftsmanship.

[@diane858]

I’ve been watching a lot of these wood turning videos lately. It is so exciting to me to witness the birth of these beautiful objects from the hands of so many talented artists. But, before this video, I’ve never really wanted to own a piece. I think this piece is magnificent. I’m in awe. I know I’m late to the party also - but, I was compelled to comment. I’m just in awe of this.

[@lawrencet.mcguilicutty7447]

I’ve been turning for 4 or 5 years now and I think this is the most beautiful piece of work I’ve ever seen on KZbin

[@warriorpoet9629]

I’m addicted to wood turning videos! Please help me someone!

[@cherishireland9194]

The wood is so cool and you used it so well! Is perfect in every way, even if you think it's not, is so amazing!

[@skeeter2786]

The only word that comes to mind after watching this is “WOW”. That is absolutely beautiful, very well done.

[@johndavies1564]

You've probably been told this before but you seem to have a real delicate touch. Pleasure watching you working the piece.

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you, John!

[@conniewojahn6445]

@Anna_. 2222 And how would you know?

[@lorenasmithhillgardner9128]

Oh my goodness, this is truly one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen 💓

[@naybobdenod]

My Flabber is Gasted. Just superb. Greetings from the UK.

[@Mimeh53]

This is one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen.

[@janetmerrill5303]

Absolutely agree!!

[@lindacarruthers3423]

@@janetmerrill5303 and me

[@sandrafernandez6362]

I can't consider myself your number one fan because I only discovered you a short time ago but I must tell you that your work is amazing. The woods you choose are fantastic and you get wonderful pieces, Congratulations on your videos 👍🌹🌹

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you, Sandra!

[@mmgross144]

I have said this before but not only is the piece beautiful, but the filmography is incredible!

[@lorenasmithhillgardner9128]

I didn't say enough in my last comment that is absolutely beautiful and amazing I cannot say enough. Thank you for sharing, 💕💞

[@FreddyMillz]

My nephew: - "So what is it supposed to be? Me with a single tear rolling down my cheek and nodding in approval- ".....shut up boy."

[@niltonc.7333]

I asked myself the same thing, then 3secs later, wtf am i asking!!!! Iit does not matter :)

[@mike83ny]

There is pretty. There is beautiful. There is art. And then there's what David does. Absolutely stunning.

[@Gonbaga]

This video just popped up in my recommended videos. My grandpa used to make stuff like this after he retired. He has since passed but I still keep a small bowl that I use for my car keys and various other items of the sort. Where I'm going with this comment is thank you so much for reminding me of him for 16 minutes.

[@zoltankaparthy9095]

It works! And you did not miss an opportunity for ornamentation. The filial was the masterstroke.

[@joanthompson8586]

Your art exceeds… I’m at a loss for words. You’re amazing!

[@sideshowbob1544]

The wood grain on the top of that piece is absolutely gorgeous! I have to put the video on pause just to look at it, it looks like Stone! The design is genius! You make it look way too easy.

[@rebeccamayers2056]

Glad this one didn't fall apart. Nice finish for a delicate burl.

[@chazburke]

Amazing creativity and execution. Thanks for sharing!

[@jodimaher2389]

It's absolutely beautiful I'm just falling in love with black palm I've never seen it work before and it's beautiful I love the way it shows off the burl and it's so subtle that it allows the burl to shine while the black palm is also the star of the show I don't know what the more to say it's just stunning I would be proud to have this as a centerpiece on my table

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thanks Jodi!

[@markg3025]

Spectacular,whimsical and magical, you are a unique artist!

[@adriannacostello3873]

Really beautiful. The combination of woods here is spectacular.

[@AnnaDomashych]

You are so talented! Every piece is an artwork!

[@melissaandersonsoderberg7686]

What a work of art! Absolutely beautiful...

[@rainchains]

That is amazing. I'm glad to confirm that black palm is beastly difficult. A piece ate one of my Forstner bits. Beautiful work; I especially like how you use ALL the tools; helps beginners like me learn the choices.

[@22VB22]

Beautiful beautiful BEAUTIFUL! 🤩 perfect craftswork !

[@laurajanemurphy4278]

Breathtakingly beautiful! Thankyou.

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you Laura!

[@EpiphoneShredzzzzz]

My favorite thing (aside from the absolutely beautiful work) is when it speeds up like at 1:54 and you can see how smooth and precise his movement is. Most people's movements look erratic at such high speeds but his hands move like they're on a set track. A sign of a real pro.

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you man. It is a skill I am still trying to master. I have a lot to learn!

[@christofz4991]

Uff, I could start crying to see the genesis. It seems like creation. Your balance of curves, edges and natural surface let me be jealous. Thanx.

[@DavidAdamsen]

Wow thank you! Always learning and trying new things!

[@malelpn37]

What is more incredible than how beautiful the wood is is the fact that you can look at it and see in your head what you want to turn it into or as some people say what the wood wants to be turned into and to be able to execute flawlessly. I would give anything to have that sort of skill

[@andymarshall7165]

Just wow, you sir know how to make a man feel completely and totally inadequate. I am just getting back in turning after a 10 or so year off, and wow this is the most amazing turning I've ever seen. Thank you for sharing

[@judithfairchild8620]

The black palm hands down is the most beautiful and interesting dark wood i have ever seen. Beautiful insanity :)

[@PhantomQueenOne]

That's some really pretty wood! The burl almost looks like it is overflowing the bowl and dripping off. Sort of like a waterfall.

[@shermohd932]

So sooòooooooo.... marvelous as well as beauuuuutiful....My Love from India to you David & all who adore their work...

[@bartardo1]

That is just a great big pile of............ AWESOMENESS.👍👍👍. GREAT VID

[@suziefisk6585]

I just love this piece. Yes, John Miller, should be in a gallery. I also love the use of contrasting species. Wow, Wow, Wow! So very impressive.

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thanks Suzie!

[@thereddufus]

Seriously, that thing is up there as one of the most beautiful objects I have ever seen. The technical skill is unreal. Just thinking about working that precisely with those species/grain patterns gives me the heebie jeebies. But in some ways I think the composition is even more impressive. The proportions and shape are so dead on, it looks fluid and yet formal, organic yet totally controlled. And apparently you managed to see that from the beginning. Bravo sir, Bravo.

[@deeharper2482]

Amazing combination of woods! As always, I love watching where the design is going. Thank you David xx

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you so much, Dee!

[@deborahoneal-rohracker5606]

This piece is gorgeous. You should be proud of yourself.

[@lonniehinton9416]

Words cannot describe the work that you just created it is absolutely excellent superbly done I wouldn't even touch it the way it's so ornate and that's all I can say as they say on TV it's on fire

[@UkeOne]

...an unusual, one-of-a-kind piece that I can't stop staring at...stunning!

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you!

[@larryrizzo736]

Not only is the final result gorgeous, but I was in awe of your control over the gouges. You are a true artist and craftsman.

[@lyndarocha8846]

The black palm is amazing and adds so much to this piece. Beautiful.

[@maff1975]

That black palm looks gorgeous

[@MonkeyJedi99]

There are definitely a lot of "not for beginners" steps in that process, and I was on the edge of my seat when you were hand-sanding the inner spaces of that spinning burl. Yikes! Turned out amazing, thank you for sharing your skills with us.

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you so much! Yes it got dicey a few times!

[@JohnMiller-pu2qx]

Hi David, ..... well as you know you and I talked few days ago when you showed me how and what you turned from that Chechen burl I sent you, and you know all my thoughts and comments already so won’t discuss that more here in you tube, but I do want to reinforce what an amazing!!!!... job you did . I had a feeling you’d do something amazing and you did!!.... your ready for gallery work and display. In your spare time try to search and reach out to the various art shops, craft stores, etc as we discussed while back. Important thing is to just start getting your name out there, so little charity work for perhaps food banks, churches organizations etc to raise money for them, donate a turning to bid on etc. Anyway again great forethought, design elements, use of contrasting woods, and overall dimensions. Truly a very artistic piece!!!👍👍👍😉😉😉 John Miller Custom Woodturnings

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you so much, John! I appreciate your advice and will definitely look out for opportunities like that. ✌️

[@jaspersjoint7433]

Great advice!!

[@suziefisk6585]

John, can you tell me where I can get some really cool pieces of wood like these to turn? I got my husband a lathe last Christmas and we’re having so much fun making things with it. So far; candle holders, bowls, vases and an urn. Limited sources of wood locally.

[@JohnMiller-pu2qx]

Hi Susie,.... not sure where you live and you mentioned you have limited access to various wood types. I turn a lot of green and seasoned wood, but of course I also turn kiln dry wood of various species. You mentioned you brought your husband a lathe last Xmas... wow!!!... bet he was surprised!... what a great Xmas gift!... I get most of my wood from the woods here in Missouri and various arborists, tree companies, etc etc. ....and then let them season up a little to get the moisture content down to what I like, but that can be a little tricky and turning wet wood is not an exact science but less dusty but might be better for your husband stick to the very dry woods and kilned dry woods to perfect his craft. That leaves your wood stores, lumber yards, etc. rockler, wood craft stores etc but they can be pricy depending what your looking for. When I’m needing perhaps something special for a client that he has commissioned me to turn, I’ll check out eBay and see who has what, again depending what your looking for, size, etc I’ve come across quite a few good reliable sellers. Hope this helps somewhat. If your husband or you have future thoughts or questions bout anything please feel free to contact me, more then happy to try and help any future woodturners . Best of luck to you and your husband. Happy turning!!!!😉

[@JohnMiller-pu2qx]

Suzie Fisk .... Hi again suzie... realized I spelled your name wrong , and might not have replied back the right way with regards to your question. Wanted let you know left a message to your question. John Miller Custom Woodturnings

[@hafengr]

That is out of this world!! Awesome!!!

[@LifenaDay525]

You are a true artist with a chisel. Beautiful work. Thanks for sharing your gift!

[@davedowding5883]

David, an absolutely stunning design. Truly museum ready. I tried black palm once for bottle stoppers and promised myself I’d never turn it again! As you said in your written introduction, turning the stuff hurts! But here you turned element after element from it... yikes! Chechen is one for the most beautiful woods to turn! I’d never seen a burl from it before. It was exciting to watch you turn your amazing design! Beautiful finish! I did a save on your video. Thanks for sharing! By-the-way, I use Wengé in place of black palm , but wouldn’t get the effect you got with the black palm. Very nice!!!

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thanks so much, Dave! Yeah some say not to use black palm unless it is stabilized, but using CA and shavings seems to help on the chip outs, but sometimes the chip out is so severe it redefines the design. Oh well.

[@dawnlineberry4539]

That is the most gorgeous piece of art I have ever seen! With each project you do i am more amazed by your talent. Please keep making this world a more beautiful place with your talent. God bless and thank you for sharing.

[@DavidAdamsen]

Wow thank you so much!

[@dawnlineberry4539]

@@DavidAdamsen you are so welcome.

[@confused837]

Absolutely fantastic piece of work.

[@jamesdaniels3699]

Out of All the wood turning on yt,this has got to be the best thing ever, magic is the only word that comes to mind.

[@DavidAdamsen]

Wow thanks so much!

[@timeenuf4200]

So much beauty hidden in a block of wood. You are truly an artist to see this in your minds eye and make it reality. Thanks for sharing.

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you! I appreciate that! ✌️

[@yeagerxp]

The burl bowl and lid were not enough yo had to go all the way with a base, a stem and a finial. Awesome 👍👍👍Thanks for sharing. And the wood choices. WOW !!!

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thanks so much! Such beautiful wood deserved lots of attention! ✌️

[@VeechMobil]

David has better hand control of his tools than most surgeons!

[@bobbywilliams120]

Just down right amazing Sir!!! You are a true professional... I'm just getting into this whole turning thing... I've built Kitchen Cabinets for years, took a 13 year break and went into Law Enforcement... Got hurt and had to retire... But now I'm back at the woodworking true love of my life... You are the best I've seen out there... Keep up the good work...

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you. I really appreciate that. Happy turning!

[@ronferguson9695]

Absolute perfection! The timber combination is amazing. The symmetry and proportion of the piece is so elegant in contrast to the rustic live edge. Thankyou for sharing your talent David. You are a true Artisan!

[@DavidAdamsen]

Wow thank you so much, Ron!

[@waddleduck6805]

Why do I feel like all the wood turning youtubers know each other

[@bryanholden6487]

They/we know of David, he's one of the very best.

[@beanboy5315]

What would you do about it if they did?

[@ignaciovelez2216]

It's the background. If you notice, a lot of woodturners have similar to identical workshops, to the point that you can take one video and say another did it. I was wondering the same thing until I realized that.

[@infidel657]

@@ignaciovelez2216 no, they don't steal eachother's work. Every channel has clearly elements unique to it, like music, invitation to like/subscribe, logo attached to bottom of the piece, and many other details. The mistrust and negativity is unnecessary.

[@ignaciovelez2216]

@@infidel657 I didn't say that. I said that a lot of channels share very similar workshops, from the Crade position, to the color of their walls. So, there's a standard or convenient methods of step ups that make them look the same for some channels. No where did I say they were stealing work, merely that they have standarized too much their background settings.

[@martiwilliams8091]

My oh my oh my! What wonderful work.

[@stevendeitrich6933]

Such a surprise ! Never thought such beauty could come from that !

[@Witchtheif89]

That might be one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen.

[@karenhinds8700]

Beautiful work with all your projects!!

[@virginiaswafford7078]

A beautiful piece. Love the beauty of natural wood.thank you for doing what you love and sharing it with me.

[@brucejones5879]

I've watched this several times and it is still my favourite turning you have done.

[@davidclarke3382]

Absolutely stunning.

[@immortalfae13]

Really wonderful work! Turned out beautiful!

[@user-ln2qd1dg9q]

Wow! Not only are you a very talented woodturner, but your Creativity is just Amazing!! Thank you for sharing you work with us…

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you very much!

[@richardmason4210]

Wow. Totally awesome. Thank you for posting.

[@diydarkmatter]

david brother that is just beautiful work . a real piece of art for sure . something to be proud of brother .

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you so much, Dark!

[@garymac121]

That is one of the most beautiful pieces art I’ve seen. Well done!

[@DavidAdamsen]

Wow, I appreciate that!

[@chinaskidotgov]

Wow that is so wicked! I could watch that all day.. I live downeast. Im watchin all of em! Subscribed!

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you!

[@kjerstidolmen6181]

I have not the faintest idea about wood turning, apart from making a lamp and a candle holder back in the seventies at school, but every now and then I find these fabulous postings on KZbin, and I get stuck here watching your fantastic craftsmanship! I LOVE seeing what you create, and although I am a crafter myself I will never (ever) reach your level. A Norwegian living in Scotland take my hat off to you❣️😍 I wish I lived close enough to buy one of your amazing pieces of art, thank you SO much for sharing❣️🙏

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you so much, Kjersti! I appreciate you watching!

[@Drebo1971]

This is incredible! I wouldn’t have imagined this at all from the initial pieces. Nicely done!

[@keithsykes9401]

I am so glad you finished up with all your fingers , that said you must be mad , but then most geniuses are a little mad ,and prepaird to take some risk to produce wonderful things, inventions and reach the top. This is one of the TOP wood turnings I have seen . An ugly burl into a thing of such beauty

[@sharongreen1522]

💥🥰 Absolutely beautiful. Mind blown.

[@superrad1659]

Beautiful work!! Really like how you retained the live edge on the underside of this piece. Very unique, and quite stunning to look at!

[@oldskool59]

I've always been a sucker for burl wood, but that black palm took my breath away! By far the most beautiful piece in terms of figure and artistic design I've seen on KZbin so far (and I've seen many.) You sir are a true artist!

[@infoskater]

John rine

[@jlyssagraywolf7503]

Absolutely stunning beyond words can describe. Chechen burl is absolutely gorgeous, so is the black palm( even if it isn't wood). I can't believe how stunning it all looks like together. I wish you had kept more of the burl, but oh well it's perfect the way it is.

[@maryhancock9681]

There are no words for this piece.gorgeous does not begin to say it. Wonderful.

[@crowgirl1326]

Stunning combination of woods that showcase nature's beauty. Gorgeous piece of artwork.

[@DavidAdamsen]

Thank you so much, Bonita!

[@arleyloeffler8205]

A beautiful work of art. Thank you.

[@venitabucceri8435]

This is UNBELIEVABLY EXQUISITE❣❣❣

[@jody-annesullivan4547]

Just wow. Wow! The workmanship, the woods, what you did here was awesome. Just a gal on KZbin here admiring craftsmanship. Awesome work, xx

[@Micheline6918]

Truly a piece of art!

[@grizzle273463]

That is a once in a lifetime piece of wood to be blessed with and you did wonders with it.

[@TripleG69]

Wow! Absolutely breathtakingly beautiful! Thanks for sharing.

[@rayworstine4399]

David, it is an absolute pleasure watching you turn. One of a kind design. All the best to you.

[@loravail5901]

Didn't know where this was going. Such amazing talent you have!