Tweakie, have you done any test or comparisons with the different woods and their surface finish, density and moisture content?  I'm just thinking if those 3 variables were monitored maybe a formula could be created to give consistant results. 

You do some of the neatest stuff Tweakie!

Brett

Hi Brett,

I had not even thought about measuring moisture content (I do have the equipment to measure that) but surface finish certainly does play a big part in determining the result.

Any thoughts or suggestions on the easiest way I can determine density ??

Tweakie.

I have used this before.

http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/wood-density-d_40.html

I don't know how accurate that will be really because of growing variables but it should get you with in a reasonable range.  You could also just measure and weigh and account for moisture content or its probably overkill but you could do a displacement vs weight test.  Maybe vaccum seal the wood in a known size bag and sink it in a pan of water and measure the amount of water that gets displaced.  I wouldn't think you would need that at all unless you were trying to measure odd shaped pieces.

Brett

Thanks for the info Brett, it is most helpful.

Overall the Obechi seems to give me the best results with, contrast ratio, so far but I still have a few more different woods here to try.

Tweakie.

Hi Tweakie,

Why are there vertical lines on the last one?

Dan

It's the grain of the wood Dan.

Tweakie.

Ah... They are so evenly spaced and bright (I would have expected the grain be darker than rest) that it didn't occur to me it was the grain

Dan

Tweakie, what are the physical dimensions of the piece in the last picture you posted?

Brett

Hi Brett,

It's 150mm x 95mm.

Tweakie.

WOW  Tweakie.... the contrast is perfect....excellent