Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: Richard B on June 12, 2014, 12:07:23 pm

Title: post steaming drying time
Post by: Richard B on June 12, 2014, 12:07:23 pm

A few days ago I steamed the handle section of my elm bow (work in progress - see "elm stave" post) to bring the string back into alignment with the handle. Was wondering how long I should leave it before re-commencing the tillering process, to make sure it is fully dried out and wont give me unnecessary string follow.
The handle areas is about 1.6 x 1.2 inches as the moment and was steamed for about 45mins.

Title: Re: post steaming drying time
Post by: RBLusthaus on June 12, 2014, 12:09:38 pm

Actually, you wait for the area to rehydrate to equilibrium, as the steaming process forces moisture out of the wood.  I wait a day or two and then have at it. 

Title: Re: post steaming drying time
Post by: Pat B on June 12, 2014, 12:11:02 pm

2x

Title: Re: post steaming drying time
Post by: wizardgoat on June 12, 2014, 12:46:20 pm

I wait 2-3 days to be safe

Title: Re: post steaming drying time
Post by: Badger on June 12, 2014, 12:48:03 pm

Just depends how wet the wood was when I steamed it. If the wood was dry I wait about 3 days.

Title: Re: post steaming drying time
Post by: Richard B on June 12, 2014, 02:55:08 pm

many thanks. The wood got quite wet when I steamed it. But its been very hot here (for England!). I think I will give it 4 days.