I've had a lot of luck bending wood using steam and a mold, but the other day I accidentally broke a gorgeous piece of Zircote, which is super hard (Janka Hardness: 1,970 lbf or 8,780 N). I'm curious to know what other techniques you guys recommend for bending very hard woods like this one.
3 Answers
Are you using a compression strap? I find it essential for successful bends. Just keep in mind that if there's any inconsistency in the grain, you might still face breakage. It can be a gamble!
You might want to check out a luthier bending iron. The electric ones have great curved edges that help with the bending process. They can really make bending easier and more effective.
Not all woods are suited for bending. It's not just about how hard the wood is; the grain direction, pore structure, and overall internal composition play a huge role too. The steaming time is crucial – if it's not enough, the wood won't bend properly, and if you overdo it, it might break. My friend usually works with white oak because it's more forgiving for bending compared to other species.
No, I'm not. Do you have any recommendations for good straps?