Aromatic Cedar - Looking for inspiration

[poolhound]

I just picked up a heck of a deal (found on CL) for Aromatic Cedar. I just picked up Approx 75 Bd/ft, 20 4/4 boards, mostly 8ft long for $60. I couldnt resist the deal so now I just need to figure out what to do with it

Two projects that were on my list are a desk and a patio table. Not sure how this cedar would hold up to outdoor use. Any thoughts?

[LCHIEN]

that sounds lieka pretty good deal. Cedar is rot and insect resistant - it will last many times longer outdoors than other woods.
Some poeple leave it natural and others like to put a varnish on it, the varnish will probably have to be renewed every year, I think.

You'll love the way it smells when you are cutting it.

[poolhound]

I was thinking of using an oil based finish rather than a varnish or poly.

You are right about the smell. I had to trim and end off one of the boards and it certainly makes a nice change from that plain dry sawdust smell..

[cabinetman]

What a good find. If you use it outdoors, I wouldn't use any varnish of any kind. I would leave it natural or use just a pure oil on it like pure tung oil. When needed, lightly scuff sand and re-oil.

If used indoors, like in a closet, don't seal with anything. When the aroma starts to dwindle, rub with bronze wool.
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[mschrank]

Two projects that were on my list are a desk and a patio table. Not sure how this cedar would hold up to outdoor use. Any thoughts?

As Loring said, it's great for outdoor use. Probably too soft for a desk, though, unless you eventually want the "distresssed" look.

[poolhound]

As Loring said, it's great for outdoor use. Probably too soft for a desk, though, unless you eventually want the "distresssed" look.

I wonder if I finished the desk with a hard wearing poly topcoat wether this will help?

[Uncle Cracker]

Wouldn't try the desk, regardless of finish, but agree with C-Man's suggestion of outdoor table, unfinished or with tung oil. Indoors, I'd slice 'em thin and line a closet, or maybe build a blanket chest (tung oil outside, unfinished inside). One caution: The smell is delightful, but the dust will screw up your lungs. Wear dust mask or respirator when sanding, and ventilate your shop to the outside.

[steve-norrell]

One caution: The smell is delightful, but the dust will screw up your lungs. Wear dust mask or respirator when sanding, and ventilate your shop to the outside.

Double ditto on Uncle's comment. I gives me a serious hayfever-like reaction. A respirator is a must. See the attached file for more information.

Regards, Steve