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I’m often asked after finding a tree stump or root ball how I finish it: Here they are:

Completion of a root ball or tree stump

After you’ve found your root ball or tree stump that you know would make a nice table or lamp, you need to finish it. Here is the process I use:

Leveling the piece: Cut the bottom in a plane perpendicular (at right angles) to the length of the piece.

Place the part on a flat surface and use a spirit level to draw a line around the part at the desired height. Cut along this line.

I use a chainsaw for this, but a sharp hand saw will do as well.

Sand top and bottom to desired smoothness.

Stumps and root balls take time to dry – often years. If the rind is firm, the piece is probably not dry. Remove bark with a drawknife or chisel.

Physically remove rot and vermin. Smoke and heat will make the bugs jump off. A campfire works great. Place the piece near the fire and heat it up. It takes time to heat up in the center as wood is a good insulator. Wood doesn’t burn until it reaches 500 degrees F. Getting the stump plus 200 degrees will kill all the eggs, larvae, etc.

Use a high quality polyurethane to finish the piece. Make sure to coat ALL surfaces: top, bottom, etc.

At least 3 coats are required to seal the piece. The polyurethane hardens the surface and stabilizes minor rot. Rotted areas really drink the polyurethane – use liberally in soft areas. Sand lightly between coats with very fine sandpaper. Let it dry completely, done.
Enjoy your artwork!!!

Gene Nellis

One-of-a-kind custom furniture from Montana’s Big Sky Country

http://www.yellowstonefurniture.com

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