I have a hugh spruce burl which I cut in 2. It is about 3 feet wide at the center which is cut and about 3 feet high. I place the 2 halves under a tarp for the winter. It was cut in September. It is now April. Does anyone have any way of knowing when it will be dry? Ie: sap gone and ready to varnish? I am think of making a coffee table out of it

I think the rest of this summer in the sun should just about season it and dry it out. By this coming September you should be able to do something with it.

Did you leave it inside or outside this winter? If this is covered and outside it could be years before you can get it stable enough to make furniture. You could try calling around to see if anyone can kiln dry it.

I believe the standard is a year to two years if the bark is peeled off, for a regular sized burl. It is best that they dry at a constant temperature. I have heard of waxing to prevent the burl from cracking from drying too fast. That can make for some beautiful cracks and markings in the turned product, but often they aren't very useful. :)

I also know that you can turn green burls, but they usually distort. A lot of people like to do this with some of the smaller burls, especially from the softer woods. Most people who turn burls don't like to give their secrets out so it is difficult to find their tricks. You might want to find an artist who does them and pay them a visit. Then say things like... "Boy, it must have taken years to dry that out enough before you worked with it!" That should start a conversation flowing to learn a few tricks of the trade. :)

I'd love to know what you learn. Please do share your experience as it goes along. Photos would be a great addition, too!

Hugs, Didi

Well it was outside but under a tarp for and off the ground for the winter and on dry days now I uncover it. There is no kiln around. I usually leave most of the bark on it for looks.