Suggestions re: bloodwood

[Dave Bagwill]

I'm going to bend some bloodwood bindings for a teardrop shaped instrument that has no sharp bends. Even so, I'm concerned about the most workable binding width of this notorious wood. Any suggestions?

[Kyle Barbour]

I bent some sides a few days ago at a little under .080". I've read that bloodwood likes little moisture and high heat. That's what I went with. lightly spritzed the side, damp parchment paper, wrapped with foil. Started bending the waist at 275. With the waist bent at 75%-80% I bent the bouts. Let the temp get to 325,finished bending the waist. Turned the heat down to 225 and let it cook for 15 -20 minutes. I don't know if it was dumb luck or what but it worked. Some of the more experienced folks might have a better idea of what to do. I know you will want to tape the bindings together and bend them all at once. good luck and let us know how you do.