I wanted to use a torch to darken Purple heart. I made a overly complicated ornament, three and a half inches long. I drilled, cut angles and turned. Then I burned it. I learned......

 

1.Cutting angles on a table saw with something this small is very tricky, I used clamps, safety shield and kept my body and fingers away.

2.Do not use glued wood and heat. Glue melts and causes cracks.

3.Do not leave heat in one area too long. It gets too dark.

4.Stop heating with a color much lighter than you want. The finish makes it at least twice as dark.

 

Having said that, it came out OK. It has flaws most can't see. If I was going to make another, I be a lot smarter. However, I'm not making anymore of them. 

 

Edited August 6, 20196 yr by Ron Altier

Came out nice!!  Purpleheart is difficult to predict sometimes.  I usually just sand and then let the finish darken it.  I find it to be a great contrast with other lighter colored woods.  

That makes for an interesting turn. Must be a winner at home.

That thing looks good enough to eat.  Actually, it made me think of a good plum.  Very nice work and now that you have learned what to do and what not to do, the next ones should perfect.  That one is good enough for market.  

Looks very darn good to me!