Hey Matt
Lot's of tips on working Koa,, trouble is , the advice can change depending on the actual wood you have. it varies in color, density, and figure a LOT. Generally though, go slowly, with sharp tools. Sand perfectly as the shimmer in the grain will show every scratch and defect. Oils tend to keep darkening and will obscure the grain after a while. We shoot pre-cat lacquers and conversion varnish here. Koa does not like direct sunshine as it bleaches the grain so it's not a good chioce where exposure is a consideration. Take nothing for granted , the beauty of the grain comes from it's wild arrangement and it can blow out at every turn. Once the piece is done though, It's stable and holds up well. Good luck and I guess we'll see what you come up with at some point
ALoah Tai
Lot's of tips on working Koa,, trouble is , the advice can change depending on the actual wood you have. it varies in color, density, and figure a LOT. Generally though, go slowly, with sharp tools. Sand perfectly as the shimmer in the grain will show every scratch and defect. Oils tend to keep darkening and will obscure the grain after a while. We shoot pre-cat lacquers and conversion varnish here. Koa does not like direct sunshine as it bleaches the grain so it's not a good chioce where exposure is a consideration. Take nothing for granted , the beauty of the grain comes from it's wild arrangement and it can blow out at every turn. Once the piece is done though, It's stable and holds up well. Good luck and I guess we'll see what you come up with at some point
ALoah Tai