namluke Posted August 14, 2018 Report Share Posted August 14, 2018 Hi, I've just bought 2 x 3.1 meter of American oak it's 100mm by 50 nominal. I would like to cut each length in 2 and glue together all 4 lengths. I'm then going to add some hair pin legs to it. (classic) The last thing I want is the wood to cup. The moisturiser content is currently around 5%. I was also going to alternate the grain. What other steps can I take to ensure that cupping doesn't happen? Many thanks Luke Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lewisc Posted August 14, 2018 Report Share Posted August 14, 2018 Is it for a table or bench? This article by Christian Beecksvoort covers a range of methods for keep tabletops flat. https://www.finewoodworking.com/media/TabletopsFlat.pdf It's not helpful for hairpin legs but super helpful for tabletops. I'd think you could use some cleats with elongated holes underneath. You could taper the ends so it wouldn't be as noticeable from the edge. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brendon_t Posted August 14, 2018 Report Share Posted August 14, 2018 If the center of your wood is 5% and you don't live in an oven, then it was probably kiln dried to achieve that. If 5 pct is your equilibrium moisture content where you live or build, then you're good. At 5% you should be stable. The wood won't want to move from moisture, but ripping it may very well release tension and you will need to joint the edges before gluing up. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.