Experiment Complete.

Several months ago, I wanted to see if I could save a rotten piece of wood – and if I could, how would it turn?

If you look back, this was the piece with about 16 nails buried in it; and about three-quarters gone. As you can see, really terrific coloring. I only wish I'd spent more time sanding; but to be honest, the smell was really getting to me; and my eyes were watering a lot. (Note: the manufacture says this stuff is very safe to work with; maybe I'm just super sensitive.)

And, oh look... there's still a nail in there...

I soaked the roughed out piece in an epoxy solution from the Rot Doctor (here in Seattle) and let it dry for a while. The upper right hand portion (in the first pic) is all that's not rotten. I was pleased as punch to see the completely mushy parts solidify and then turn well. Although, there is still a very noticeable density difference as it spins, and I was still having a bit of a tear-out issue.

Kinda pricey at $40 for the two quarts needs to soak this piece. But, good to know you can do it if you really, really want to.

Currently this bowl lives in the gallery at tetherinc.com, where I work, down on Occidental. I gave it to Bebet, our curator, after seeing the bowl she had been using for buttons and such, wasn't nearly as nice. And seeing as I rushed this one, I didn't see the point in trying to sell it.

I think it's red maple, but I'm not sure. Finished with a semi-gloss wipe-on varnish.