How do I dry this??? (and small gloat)

[RonSchmitt]

Customer came into work yesterday and we got to talking about wood. Said he had a black walnut tree he just cut down laying in his yard and
do I want it?
He came back today and dropped off the first load.
Now, as I am new to this whole log thing, how do I dry this, how long do I let it sit, do I cut it into various blanks first?
I'm so lost it ain't funny. ( go ahead Cav, Doc, + Ed, I'm ready for ya )

He says there will be more to follow, so if anyone wants bowl blanks, LMK and I will start a list.

 

[wm460]

G'Day Ron,

Best luck Ive had is to cut it in halves lengthways try to follow the pith, so you end up with two D shaped pieces.
Then cut of the ends where it will probably started to check.
Then dip each end in melted wax, where I am I have to then store it in my shed as it is too hot outside.
I have tried paint, Bondcrete and P.V.A glue mixed with water with some success these are sitting outside and it get real hot here, hottest day last year was 48 degrees C.

Hope this helps,
If you come via my place just drop a couple logs off.

Cheers,
Bob.

 

[fiferb]

Do what Bob says, cut in half lengthways taking out as much of the pith as you can. If you are able, cut them into bowl blanks and rough turn them right away. Leave them about 1/2 to 3/4 inches thick. Set them on a shelf for about 2 months and then you can turn to finish. I had a couple of good size walnut logs a couple of months ago I did this with and I'm now starting to finish them.

 

[wdcav1952]

Good advice so far, Ron. I would add that you should tell him you want the "ugly" pieces as well, with crotch wood especially. Often people outside of woodturning want to give you the perfect, furniture grade type of pieces. The more gnarly the grain, the better.

Surprize, a serious answer!!!!