Jerry Rhoads Woodturning
It's all about the wood ...
One of the most frequent questions that I am asked is "Where do you get your wood?" The answer is that this is reclaimed wood. Most comes from the Landscape Recycling Center in Urbana, Illinois. This wonderful resource is less that 10 miles from my home and a great place to find beautiful local hardwoods. My larger pieces, such as, bowls or platters come from pieces I found at the center. You never know what you will find.
Frequently people say that a tree is their yard is coming down and ask if I am interested. I hate to pass up a chance to get wood but have started to get more selective. Probably one of the best was trees that I was offered was pecan that came from Brocton, Illinois. I have also been offered beautiful walnut!
Thirdly, of course, if I hear a chain saw, I go running!
I also have woods on my property and have planted lots of maple and ash. Only fallen trees, however, are used for turning.
I do buy exotic wood for smaller pieces such as my bottle stoppers and pens. These are all from green sources, thru proper channels, and government approved.
It is all about the wood!