Hidden Pitch Pockets

A Hidden Pitch Pocket In Toy Truck Turns A Toy Into Kindling
A Hidden Pitch Pocket In Toy Truck Turns A Toy Into Kindling 

The Pitch Pocket Was Invisible Until The Cut Was Complete
The Pitch Pocket Was Invisible Until The Cut Was Complete

A Halloween Spider Ruined By Hidden Pitch Pockets
A Halloween Spider Ruined By Hidden Pitch Pockets
 

A pitch pocket is a defect in softwoods; it consists of an opening in the grain that contains pitch or resin. Also called a resin pocket. As long as it is buried deep in the wood, they are no big deal, but they are a problem when they are on or near the surface.

The spider and the toy truck pictured both had pitch pockets that were invisible until they were cut. I will not knowingly sell items with pitch pockets. These two are designer kindling.

This is one of the many reasons why I am slowly trying to move away from using softwoods. Especially pine construction lumber which seems to be the worst. Yes. it is cheap but the yield of useable wood is not good. I can lose up to 50% of a board to knots, checks, cracks, poor milling, and pitch pockets. Maybe another 10% is lost when the resulting pieces are not large enough to use for anything. When I add in the additional labor, and finishing issues it just doesn't seem worth it.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Handmade Wooden Dinosaur Pterodactyl Figurine Handmade and Finished From My Buddies Dinos Collection - 655979018

Image
Buy This Dinosaur Today My Buddies Dinosaur Collection All My Dinosaurs Welcome to my shop, where I handcrafted this unique Pterodactyl dinosaur figurine from carefully selected hardwoods using traditional woodworking tools. Approximate Dimensions: Length: 6-5/8 inches Height: 4 inches I use a custom blend of mineral oil, beeswax, and carnauba wax to give each figurine a smooth, durable, renewable, and natural finish that enhances the beauty of the wood. Because working with natural wood is unique, every dinosaur I create is one-of-a-kind. The item you receive may vary slightly from the one pictured in the photos, but that's the beauty of it. The natural variations in wood grain, color, and knots add to the character and charm of each piece, making it truly special. I take great pride in creating these handmade treasures in Tallahassee, Florida, USA. Don't hesitate to contact me if you have a specific wood preference or want a custom order. I'll do my best to accommodate yo...
Read more

Wooden Toy Lorry Truck My First Version Made For My Grandson - 705872553

Image
  Handmade Wooden Toy Lorry Truck From The Quick N Easy 5 Truck Fleet - Left Side Front View Buy This Truck Now  My Easy 5 Truck Fleet My Toy Truck Collection I created a fleet of toy trucks for my grandson almost a year ago. Unfortunately, he started playing with them before I had the chance to take photos. All the parts for the truck, except for the wheels, can be made from wood purchased at a big box store. I used a scroll saw to cut the body from a 2x4 section, but a piece of 2x6 would be easier. I had to reduce the body size to avoid the rounded corners on the 2x4. I also had to adjust the sides of the bed to clear the wheels. The toy truck is not detailed, but the simple design makes it easier to create than more complex toys. Plus, there are fewer bits and pieces to make, which reduces the likelihood of breakage. I've considered adding fenders to the design. I used pine to make the toy truck because it's lighter than other options, and I prefer to keep the weight o...
Read more

Wooden Toddlers Puzzle Black Kitten - A Simple Two Piece Tray Puzzle Handmade and Painted From My Puzzle Pals Collection - 645535259

Image
  Buy This Puzzle Today My Puzzle Pal Collection My Puzzle Collection   This adorable wooden puzzle features a playful black kitten crafted from select-grade hardwood. Each piece is hand-painted with colorful acrylic paint and finished with a coat of shellac for durability.   Approximate Size: Height: 3.5 inches Width: 3.5 inches Thickness: 0.75 inch   I take pride in creating high-quality and engaging toys for little ones, and this cat puzzle is no exception. Its four-piece tray design makes it easy to assemble and store, and the pieces are painted on only one side to assist with matching. Perfect for little ones just starting to explore the world of puzzles, this cat puzzle can also be used as a freestanding stacking toy, providing fun and developmental benefits.   At my workshop in Tallahassee, Florida, USA, I carefully assemble and test each toy to ensure the highest quality. It's important to note that all my items are handmade using natural wood and wood p...
Read more