Woodturning a natural edge mushroom in apricot. In this video, I complete a series exploring what difference the turning axis could make on a mushroom turning. A viewer questioned how I oriented the turning axis, so here we go with an experiment.

With this third apricot branch, I’m orienting the turning axis much more dramatically – running from bark edge on one side to the opposite side’s bark edge. The actual angle would vary with the diameter and the length of the wood.

As usual, the challenge is in the mushroom’s cap. With the natural, irregular edge, it’s hard to find the edge or to ride a gouge’s bevel.

The finish is mineral oil and beeswax in a 75%/25% ratio. This is Eli Avisera’s recipe. I love the honey smell from the beeswax. I used the oil/wax also as a sanding compound to both lubricate the sand paper and capture the dust.

This mushroom completes this experiment.

I think the wood made more difference than the off-axis turning. The off-axis is evident if you’re looking for it. It may even make a subtle difference to the casual observer.