Apple Wood Bowl — Bark Inclusion, Stabilized Natural Character

In the home

At 10 inches across and 3 inches high, this low apple wood bowl has an immediate, authentic presence. A dramatic bark inclusion runs through the side wall like a natural fault line, giving the piece a distinct visual focal point without compromising its low, stable table posture.

It sits comfortably on a dining table, kitchen island, sideboard, or entry console, functioning as an inviting catch-all or centerpiece.

Wood, shape, and finish

Apple wood is prized among woodturners for its dense texture, rich reddish-tan heartwood, and unpredictable natural character. This log blank contained a deep internal bark inclusion that threatened to split the blank during turning. By carefully stabilizing the inclusion with cyanoacrylate (CA) adhesive during shaping, the raw bark void was permanently secured within the turned rim.

The form is turned low and open, allowing the red-gold grain and stabilized bark feature to remain fully visible from all viewing angles.

Finished with Sutherland Welles polymerized tung oil, the oil deeply hydrates the dense fruitwood fibers, curing into a protective, food-safe satin surface that enhances tactile hand-feel. Care requires light wiping with a damp cloth and immediate drying; avoid dishwashers and prolonged moisture.

This piece is available in person at Finder’s Keepers Corner in Berea, Ohio.

Explore more

• Are Wood Bowls Food Safe? covers food-contact expectations for oil finishes.
• Wood Bowl Care Guide covers cleaning, oiling, and maintaining fruitwood turnings.
• Wood Bowl Finishes Explained details why polymerized tung oil protects dense hardwoods.
• Which Wood Makes the Best Gift Bowl? explains the visual character of fruitwood species.
• Browse all apple wood turning projects to see more apple wood pieces.