Guidance on carving - Tiki Carving

K knarf Member Joined: Sep 11, 2026 Posts: 1	K knarf Posted posted on Fri, Sep 11, 2026 9:20 AM Greetings from coastal South Carolina. I unfortunately was forced to take down a 40' Washingtonia palm in my yard this week so I decided to save about 6.5' and attempt to carve a tiki. I mistakenly thought I'd have a thick solid layer on the outside and pulled on a loose piece on the top and ended up exposing a really fibrous layer (see second photo). Luckily this is towards the backside of the palm. It's my understanding that I need to remove the outer layer before I start carving. I have an electric planer that I plan to use. How much do I take off? I've also posted a photo of a cross section. It would be very much appreciated if any knowledgeable folks could offer tips/advice on the project. Thanks! [ Edited by knarf on 2026-09-11 09:21:51 ] [ Edited by knarf on 2026-09-11 09:22:40 ]

Greetings from coastal South Carolina. I unfortunately was forced to take down a 40' Washingtonia palm in my yard this week so I decided to save about 6.5' and attempt to carve a tiki. I mistakenly thought I'd have a thick solid layer on the outside and pulled on a loose piece on the top and ended up exposing a really fibrous layer (see second photo). Luckily this is towards the backside of the palm.

It's my understanding that I need to remove the outer layer before I start carving. I have an electric planer that I plan to use. How much do I take off? I've also posted a photo of a cross section.

It would be very much appreciated if any knowledgeable folks could offer tips/advice on the project. Thanks!

palm

[ Edited by knarf on 2026-09-11 09:21:51 ] palm2 palm3

[ Edited by knarf on 2026-09-11 09:22:40 ]

Post #818865 by knarf on Fri, Sep 11, 2026 9:20 AM