Working with Mesquite

[Bob Farris]

Just returning from a vacation in Sedona, AZ and some opportunities showed up in discussions with resort owner's and gift shops.

How is Mesquite to work with?

Any recommendations on sources?

Has anyone tried San Pedro Mesquite Company in Bowie, AZ?

[ozarkhillbilly]

Welcome aboard Bob, my only experience in using mesquite has been in my BBQ grill smoker. But I did a quick google search and found the following:
http://www.mesquitedesign.com/news.htm

How are you intending to use it?

Another fine site with some good pictures of its grain and patterns can be found here: http://www.hobbithouseinc.com/person...s/mesquite.htm the owner of this site does wood turnings.
Hope this helps.

[keithmc]

I use Mesquite for my pens and fly tying boxes. I have also used it in intarsia. I have had no real problem with it. It makes excellent pens and fly tying boxes. I get my mesquite from Chandler Hardwoods, 3116 S. Diamond Dr., Chandler, AZ 85249. 480-882-8429. They use to ship anywhere in the U.S. I do not know if they still do.
Keith

[William Young]

Hi Bob;
I answered you on another site where you posted it.
W.Y.

[Bob Farris]

I have been asked to do some nativities and general southwestern work.

I also want to make some picture frames and cutting boards.

The majority of what I saw was laser cut.

[knothead]

Bob,
I have cut several pieces of Mesquite. From 1/4 to 2" slabs. I think it cuts very well. I would have to compare it to cutting walnut. Hope this helps. I get it from my property.
Tom

[Bob Farris]

Thank you for the information.

[Pajaro]

Mesquite........... that's a city just east of Dallas. Hee hee hee. But Mesquite wood grows wild in south and west Texas. I have often thought of using it. But the trees are short and gnarly, not a lot of workable wood in a tree. I guess that's why it makes a great BBQ wood. Maybe I'll rethink using it again, considering the supply is so close.

[Bob Farris]

San Pedro Mesquite in AZ advertises 6 ft plus lengths with some nice widths.