Ancient Kauri Tenor

[Graham Long]

Made this one last year, had the wood since 2009. Got enough for a few more.
New Zealand Ancient Kauri, unusual stuff to work with, cuts like craft wood.
Somewhere between 35,000 and 50,000 years old

[martintaylor]

love it!

[demonx]

That looks great!

How did you go with the Engelmann? I've only worked with it once and found that when I was removing tape it liked to peel back strips of wood with it, I was told afterwards to peel sideways to try avoid this. Guess I'll have to experiment.

[Graham Long]

Yep, have to be careful, I found the same thing with other spruces, not just Engelmann.
I found that a light coat of shellac helps prevent it, but you still have to be careful.

[Dave M]

Graham you've been busy!

Working with ancient wood like that must be a bit of a thrill.
Is the black line in the heel an inlay or part of the lamination? There has to be scope for some decorative work round there for the more playful instruments.

[routout]

That is a very nice Instrument ,I like the woods very much.

[Graham Long]

Hi Dave,
yes, it a bit different knowing just how old it is.
The dark brown piece in the heel is a bit of desert oak, same as the heel cap.
Cheers
Graham