Tips for Sanding Diamond Willow Wood

Diamond willow is any wood from a willow tree that has been warped into diamond-shaped sections that alternate in color. The deformation is likely the result of a fungus attacking the tree; the bark of the tree begins to grow away from the affected area, causing cankers to form on the wood. These cankers tend to adopt a beautiful diamond pattern that alternates between light and dark wood colors.

It is an extraordinary and unusual type of wood that carpenters and furniture designers across the country fervently seek. When working with diamond willow, it is important to learn some proper techniques to protect yourself and the material. Read on for tips on how to sand your diamond willow.

Tools needed

To get started on a diamond willow sanding project, you’ll first need to make sure you have the proper tools on hand. Gather items such as chisels, scrapers, knives (not the folding type), rasps, block panels, and suitable grade sandpaper. When stockpiling these tools, you should be aware that this is a hand carving and sanding project that can lead to serious injury if not implemented safely. Basically, watch out for the hand holding the diamond willow at all times!

Once you have all the necessary items, it is important to analyze the type of sandpaper to use. For this type of sanding, it is recommended to opt for standard three-ply sheets of aluminum oxide production paper. Be sure to purchase a variety of grits, including 100, 120, 220, and 320. Although most of the sanding you will do will require 100 grit, you may need to purchase all of these to achieve a certain finish.

To get started with the sanding process, follow these tips for tips:

• Use a gouge chisel or a rounded blade that does not bend to remove the crust from the diamonds.

• Make sure you don’t cut the diamonds too far, exceeding their distinctive coloration.

• Fingerprints in the deepest recesses of the diamonds add a unique beauty to the final finish.

• Sand all areas to your preferred level of leveling with a scraper, rasp, or other effective tool.

• Smooth all areas again to desired smoothness with sandpaper.

• Finish with a suitable coat but do not use polyurethane.

Art and skill aside, getting the best results when sanding any wood product begins with the use of quality materials. Be sure to choose self-made abrasives for all your sanding needs to cement great results that last.