In case of technical difficulties, this video post is also on YouTube and FaceBook. Where Best? Right here at As Wood Turns.

This project was inspired by Mark Hunter’s article in American Woodturner June 2023.

While the result was the interesting part. I did not like the process to cut the segments. It seemed extremely time-consuming and a significant risk element.

But, having recently acquired a 40 watt LED laser, I decided to try it out on a smaller scale. Only 16 rings with segments incrementing from 5 to 20 segments. BTW that is exactly 200 segments from six different woods: maple, hickory, sycamore, oak, walnut with a background of cherry. All rings were 1/2″ thick. The finish is wipe-on poly. I wanted to use bloodwood and heat treated ash for more contrast but I could not cut them. Both triggered the fire sensor on the laser. Bloodwood due to the number of passes required to get the cut and the cumulative power; Heat treated ash simply flamed up very quickly. I think due to the previous processing it was almost charcoal already.

All segments were prepared using Lightburn software then cut on an LED 40 watt laser with smoke enclosure and exhaust. Since I am still checking out the laser, I hesitate to give the manufacturer.

Some newer viewers may wonder why I insist on wearing a face shield for safety. Please check out this video:
Green Apricot Bowl Disaster

Enjoy.

p.s. If you would like a more in depth demonstration than my weekly videos, please contact me for an IRD (Zoom Demo) on this or other topics.