Sometimes when we kiln dry Claro Walnut light streaks show up in the wood slabs making the wood somewhat resemble Macassar Ebony. Various theories abound on what actually causes these streaks, but no one has a definitive answer. Whatever the reason, this streaking creates a wild figure that can look incredible when finished as seen above in a waterfall coffee table made by Minasalli Cabinet. Check out our 8/4 Claro Walnut for more incredible walnut slabs that have this figure.
Preventing Warping in Wide Slabs
A wide slab of wood can make a piece of furniture truly unique. Unfortunately, warping happens more frequently with wide slabs than narrow lumber. An unfinished slab will usually warp by losing or gaining most of its moisture on just one side of the slab instead of on both sides.
Here are some tips for controlling the warping in your wide slab:
- Never leave the slab in direct sunlight.
- Never store the slab outside or in a damp basement.
- Always treat both sides of the slab the same. Either prevent air from reaching both sides (by wrapping in plastic etc.) or let air reach both sides by layin the slab on dry sticks.
- Never lay the slab on a damp surface such as a basement floor even if it is on stickers.
Some people like to equalize the slab by storing it for a couple of weeks in an area that has the same air conditions as to where the completed furniture will be permanently living.