Slippery Elm

[Don Stephan]

Any experience turning slippery elm bowls? Quite large tree blew down, I've collected 12-15 pieces to make once turned bowls. Made a couple and seems to cut cleanly. Gorgveous reddish brown heartwood, no idea if the color will remain or fade.

 

[Lou Jacobs]

Not directly answering your question, but related: I recently acquired a bunch of American Elm which I’ve been drying in my drying box and turning. It has terrific grain and turns beautifully. I’ve given this one back to the homeowner who gave me the wood. The bowl is 12” x 4”.

 

[Don Stephan]

I've also turned american elm. Has anyone experience with slippery elm?

 

[Kent Reisdorph]

I may have turned slippery (red) elm. I can't say for sure, but the elm I cut down and turned didn't seem like American elm. It is quite dark and reddish. Apparently, green slippery elm smells bad, which I did not notice when turning it. Also, the elm I have fluoresces under blacklight. According to Wood DB, only wych elm fluoresces. I guess this isn't too helpful, lol.

 

[Lou Jacobs]

I love this vessel Kent!

 

[Dave Fritz]

Generally speaking I didn't see much difference between slippery (red) elm or American (white) elm. A lot depends on the individual piece of wood I think.