Time to cut some 1/2'' Ebony plugs I usually have a lot of plugs on hand, but they do eventually run out. So I spend about an hour cutting out plugs using my drill press and tapered plug cutter. I usually pick up pieces of scrap ebony that have enough thickness to get plugs from both sides, go to be as efficient as possible when working with any exotic wood.
Armless Bar Stools Build Process - Day 1 - Day 2 - Day 3 - Day 4 - Day 5 - Day 6 - Day 7 - Day 8
Here I am working away, I have my 4'' dust collection hose pretty close pulling away the melting wax and wood chips. Ebony has a waxy coating covering all the surface, when I cut plugs a good amount of smoke is created so having the the dust extraction directly at the source is very important.
Here is the piece of ebony i'm using to make my plugs, I try to use pieces that I can get a nice length plug out of each side. I got very lucky one day and was able to score some ebony cut offs directly from an african sawmill. Mush less expensive and perfect for what I use it for, one mans trash is another mans treasure.
I use a 1/2'' tapered plug cutter, so as I install the plug into chair it creates a perfect fitting plug.
Plugs installed, one side sanded one side still is rough
Stay tuned, this pair of stools is really coming together, thanks for dropping by to have a look.