TAGUA NUT BOTTLE STOPPERS

Tagua nuts have been in use for more than 200 years. In days gone by Tagua was THE material for buttons, bangles and beads. These days plastics have replaced Tagua for most applications. However, the Tagua Plantations in Equador and other parts of the Amazon Basin still exist. Large tracts of these trees, or at least ancestors of these trees, still flourish and produce Palm Nuts.
      Tagua when fresh is an edible nut and used in the daily diet of the locals. When dry it is very hard, almost pure cellulouse, it has a color and consistency similar to that of Animal Ivory. Thus the term Palm Ivory or Vegatable Ivory.
Recently, Tagua has enjoyed a rebirth, discovered by crafters and artists Tagua has found its' way into many disiplines. As a turner I am always challenged to find new uses for the nut. I like the way it sheds shavings when turned, in long flowing ribbons and the way it polishes up when finshed.
      Our Bottlestoppers use a single Tagua Nut on top of an lovely piece of hardwood. The wood is chosen to compliment the color of the Taguas' "bark". In our view dark browns or earth tones are th preferred color mix. For ths we use Walnut, Cocobolo, Macassar Ebony and other wood in this color range. The natural cork is replaceable.

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Tamarind Woodturning - P.O. Box 19366 - Johnston, RI 02919 - iafrateturns@cox.net Last Revised: June 12, 2003 Comments or suggestions? e-mail the WEBMASTER