Beautiful Red Elm...what to do?

[isaaccarlson]

I just milled this red elm but am stuck on how to cut it or IF to cut it. I think I should keep taking off boards the way it is sitting and make a table, but can you guys think of anything better? I hate to "waste" it.
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[B Harrison]

It is a pretty bit of timber.
Is it hard enough for a table? It would make a pretty one if it will last.

 

[isaaccarlson]

It is a pretty bit of timber.
Is it hard enough for a table? It would make a pretty one if it will last.

It is hard and solid. The beam must weigh 200 lbs. I have been thinking about making it a table. The beam is 7 1/2 x 9.
I need to figure out how much table I can make with 40 board feet. I also need to pick a style for the table.

Which way should I mill it, flat or turn it up on edge?

 

[Dave Boyt]

Turn it whichever way gives you the grain pattern that best suits you. Then post more pictures. If it is a toss-up, I'd go with the wider boards. Fewer cuts, less wood converted to sawdust.

 

[isaaccarlson]

I milled it the way it was sitting. I got 5 boards from it at 5/4 and 9 inches wide. Plenty for a table.
My wife helped me decide on the milling. She liked the knots and figure. The inside of the beam was better than the outside!
I need to go get more of that wood. I have about a dozen to take down. I didn't take any pics because things have been so busy here.
I might get some when we move the stack. I will brush a few pieces with water and snap a pic before they dry off.

 

[discounthunter]

is that the center of the log. if so count on some loss do to cracking around the pith,aspecially on the center boards.

left by itself it would make a great looking mantle piece.