Ginkgo wood useful for carving?

#1 08-30-2003, 11:17 AM

Greetings from flatland Champaign, IL U.S.A.

As an arborist, I hate to throw away wood.

Recently was asked to remove 2 healthy female Ginkgo trees. 18' DBH 9 feet long, clear.

Have been gathering info about the wood; its suitability for use as lumber, carving, turning.

Any suggestions on size of lumber that would be useful for different projects. Currently we have about 500 board feet rough cut 5/4, as wide as 27' clear. Plus, we cut one piece 4 X 4, about 8 feet long.

Thanks for your suggestions.

#2 08-31-2003, 02:06 AM

Healthy female Ginkgo trees, I understand why someone would want them removed. Phew.......

As far as carving, wow! You can send me the 4x4!

I would suggest if you are planning on using it for any type of carving, you should shoot for 2 inch min. finished thickness.
Width and length as the wood allows.

Might I add, you have the perfect day job for a carver.

#3 08-31-2003, 10:44 AM

Ginko wood

Ginko makes for great carvings as for spoons and ornaments. I have carved several lovespoons from Ginko and working on several other projects in Ginko..I had to travel about an
hour away to get it. but it was free for the taking. Is considerably lighter than basswood. and sands,carves.finishes nicely..Here in my western Pa town they have an ordinance against cutting down ginko trees.. they would not know the difference from poplar.. ginko's trademark is the oriental fan shaped leaf..is a good sign you have found a ginko.. keep chipping away

Respectfully
Sittingbill

Hi_Ho_Sliver · #4 09-02-2003, 09:56 AM

I don't know if I have ever seen a 'gingko' and not known what I was looking at, but I sure have not heard of it! very interesting! Will have to do some checking and see if I can find one and whittle on it a bit!!

#5 09-03-2003, 09:05 AM

I think Wood Carving Illustrated did a piece about carving Ginkgo in a past issue. Â*Maybe someone remembers? Â*If not, I'll check it out when I get home tonight and let you know which issue.

#6 09-03-2003, 03:02 PM

Ginko wood
yes after I brought that truckload of wood home they ran an article about Ginko that was in October..so what ever issue falls after that..the fall issue or the winter issue..
had to be winter of 2001

Sittingbill

#7 09-04-2003, 02:44 PM

Right you are Sittingbill. Â*It was in Issue #17 - Holiday 2001