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Price is per blank. Multiple blanks shown to illustrate the
variety that is possible.
Click here for photos comparing the various TruStone blanks.
Dimensions: 1.25 inches square by 1.75
inches long
Description: This is one of the few TruStone blanks that does not have real stone in it, but it is beautiful with a swirly chatoyance. Golden Brown in color.
Opacity: Translucent. You will need to paint the inside of the blank after drilling to avoid seeing the tubes. Choose a similar color to retain the original coloring. Use a darker color to darken the blank, and a lighter color to lighten the blank.
Turnability: Hard,
recommended for experienced turners only. Please try
Easy and
Medium TruStone blanks first.
Turning Notes:
- I recommend carbide tools for the Medium and Hard TruStone blanks. The Woodchuck Pen Pro
Carbide Tool that is available on this site is an excellent choice. HSS
tools are OK on the Easy and Medium, but will need to be sharpened more
frequently.
- Go slow and allow
these blanks to cool if too much heat builds up while drilling and turning. Too
much heat can cause them to crack or shatter. Take shallow cuts and cut from the end of
the blanks towards the center to avoid stress on the unsupported ends of the
blanks.
- If you are new to turning TruStone blanks I recommend trying the
easy blanks
first, and working up to the
medium and
hard blanks.
- Finish as you would finish acrylic blanks (a CA finish is not needed). I sand
through the micro-mesh grades, cleaning the blank with alcohol between grades,
and then buff with ZAM to bring out the ultimate shine.
- These are the pliable TruStone blanks.
TruStone blanks make very impressive finished projects. The easy
blanks are within the ability of most turners, and while the medium and hard
blanks are more difficult to turn, you will be well rewarded for taking on the
challenge of these blanks when you end up with a beautiful finished item.
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