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This hunk of maple has been laying around in my shop for over two years, from before my move from Oregon to Utah. When it was given to me, I thought is was just an oddly sawn chunk of ordinary wood. I got tired of it taking up space. Rather than get rid of it, I decided to try to turn it.

Boy, was I surprised. I quickly recognized it as burl wood. A bit later recognized it as maple. Wow! What a surprise-a big chuck of burl wood instead of some plain wood.

Well, it was tough going. The wood was sawn into a three sided pyramid which made it difficult to round off. Plus, the bark was thick. I did not dare hack at the bark because of the burl figure. But I persevered.

The bowl is maple burl about 10 inches in diameter and 4 inches high, finished with lacquer. I did not dare fill the voids. To do so would spoil the effect of the burl wood.

Remember the Christmas Ornament Challenge submission period is coming up quickly. Plan your ornament now.