the_margaret•1mo agoProlific Poster

Appreciation post: My old boss in Phoenix said to always check the grain before cutting a curve, and a job last month finally made it click.

I was cutting a curved apron for a bar top from some figured maple, rushing to finish before lunch. I ignored the grain direction, and the piece split right along a twist, ruining a $80 board. How do you guys quickly read tricky grain on expensive stock?

3 comments

3 Comments

abbyg141mo ago

Honestly, I just run my thumb over the surface now to feel the ridges. Tbh it's saved me a few times on curly stuff.

oscarw831mo ago

So the thumb test works on all curly fries or just certain brands? I've had some where the ridges are basically painted on.

holly_sanchez751mo ago

Try a swipe with a damp rag first.