Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: JonW on June 01, 2017, 12:34:20 pm

Title: Color of yew sapwood
Post by: JonW on June 01, 2017, 12:34:20 pm
Question for the yew bowyers. I just tillered my first yew bow. The sapwood is just not that creamy color that makes the contrast of heart and sapwood pop. I sand it and it is just kinda dull beige. I even tried sealing it immediately after sanding but it is just not white. Thoughts?
Title: Re: Color of yew sapwood
Post by: PEARL DRUMS on June 01, 2017, 12:35:34 pm
Jon I have noticed low elevation yew can vary in that way. Not to say high elevation PNW doesn't, but I haven't seen it.
Title: Re: Color of yew sapwood
Post by: JonW on June 01, 2017, 12:40:32 pm
Chris the stave didn't have bark on it when I got it. Maybe the affect of UV light over the years?
Title: Re: Color of yew sapwood
Post by: PEARL DRUMS on June 01, 2017, 12:51:01 pm
That very well could be the reason. I don't think you have anything to worry about Jon. 
Title: Re: Color of yew sapwood
Post by: DC on June 01, 2017, 12:54:32 pm
 I've seen different colored sapwood too. It can vary quite a bit. Sometimes the heartwood is kind of pale and that takes away the contrast. Sometimes the line between the two is kind of blurred. Once in a while you get almost white sapwood with dark, reddish heartwood and a sharp dividing line. Then you're golden :D :D :D
Title: Re: Color of yew sapwood
Post by: JonW on June 01, 2017, 01:00:26 pm
Not worried about it as it is tillered and doing fine. Just looking for that beatiful contrast.

DC it really doesn't have that definition you speak of.
Title: Re: Color of yew sapwood
Post by: Del the cat on June 01, 2017, 01:38:02 pm
It can vary a lot, some wood goes sap,heart,sap, heart and the transition and difference in colour can be very poor.
Other staves it's the classic caramel and cream
Del
Title: Re: Color of yew sapwood
Post by: DC on June 01, 2017, 01:53:41 pm
A little oil will help make it pop if you haven't done that already. :D