Purpleheart wood grows in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America.
When it is cut, purpleheart wood turns from its original beige to purple color. With age, it turns to a dark purple. Sometimes it turns brown. It's an exotic hardwood that makes beautiful flooring. It's also used to make many things such as the ends of billiard cues, cabinets, furniture, diving boards and skis, according to www.thewoodbox.com. Purpleheart wood is resistant to fungi and dry-wood termites. Because of its hardness and unique qualities, it requires some special handling to work with it.
Instructions
1. Wear protective gear when you work with purpleheart wood. Common irritations occur to the eyes and skin. Repeated exposure to this wood has been reported to cause allergic reactions. Purpleheart wood dust may cause nausea.
2. Cut and shape purpleheart wood with sharp saw blades, chisels and similar cutters. This wood is dense and hard. It can easily dull tools. If you go too slow when you're cutting it or using a router on it, it can burn. The burn marks are difficult to remove. Purpleheart wood can be engraved with a laser.
3. Predrill holes in purpleheart wood when you're building with it. Otherwise, it can easily split, especially when you're putting fasteners near the ends of pieces. Use caution when you're hammering in nails or tightening screws so the wood doesn't split.
4. Glue pieces of purpleheart wood with yellow glue. But, depending on the application, it may not hold well. Use Titebond II or Gorilla Glue for a sure bond. Follow the manufacturers' instructions to get the best results.
5. Use lacquer and water-based finishes on purpleheart wood and the color will remain for a longer period of time. Use oil finishes if you want the wood to turn darker quicker.
