How to fix a badly twisted slab/board without losing much thickness

I wanted the share the technique I used to fix really bad twists in a couple live edge Walnut slabs I used in a bookmatched table, without losing too much thickness. This method can also be used for cups and bows, and is helpful in preventing future warping from changes in humidity.

Had to re-upload because I accidentally nuked the wrong video, whoops.

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[buffalojones]

Subscriber 403 here. What a great tip. I feel like I’ve watched all the YouTube videos on woodworking, but I sure haven’t seen this idea before. Great tip.

[ardemus]

The worked side of that wood is beautiful and fascinating to look at! There would be a market for that, filled with epoxy or inlays.

[MyLifecraft]

Nice. I usually just force the warp out with straight pieces glued either around the perimeter, or on the bottom of the table. I have a kitchen table that was cupped, so I glued some 4X4’s on the ends and a year and a half later, it’s still flatter than ever

[RILRIL]

Brilliant! I will absolutely be doing this to save some twisted but stunning 5/4" figured birch slabs.

[James-goct]

Extremely helpful. I have an English walnut slab I am using for a clear epoxy build. It twisted slightly during drying. Can’t use c Chanel’s because it’ll be clear. Probably one or two other videos about this but non as in-depth. Thank you.

[jnjdiversesolutionsllc]

Was thinking about doing this same technique to a walnut table I am currently building for a customer. I had never heard of it being done before, but making round faces with plywood gave me the idea for the slots. You’re awesome Jon, thanks for having a killer idea and posting it on YouTube. These are the things I wish people shown more often. Too many board planning videos and not enough skilled videos. Sub 500 here btw!

[TheScytheMoron]

Oooooh, so that's why my office desk at home has those CUTS on the underside. ^^

[KieuPho]

Great solution! Pls continue this type of work. Thank You Sir.

[ARMYStrongHOOAH]

I'll be honest, I was skeptical in the beginning trying to wrap my head around your drawings. Awesome technique, beautiful product.

[kirn.creations]

The video I was looking for. Thank You Sir! Explained well and showing your technique helps put it in perspective. Subscribed🤙

[MrSeminole]

nice content and replies for additional clarity- thanks and keep up the good work!

[CoupleofBunkies]

never seen it done like that thanks and you gained a subscriber

[brainwashingdetergent]

Nice technique! And again, killing it with the music selection!

[rattlejake]

Certainly can't argue with the result!

I confess to being curious about the longevity of this technique and if your wedging battens - which kind of seems similar to what you're doing here? - holds up over a long period of time (i.e., decades).

Nice work, overall!

[jonwatkins]

Appreciate the information. I’ll be in touch with questions.

[FharishAhmedPortfolio]

Alright... This actually helped me out, way more than you know.
I think this deserves a sub!

[williambranham]

This is a follow up from an earlier comment. I watched another video by a professional who made a similar table. He used a similar technique with c channel although he did not use the type with slots nor did he rout the inset for the c channel a little longer and wider. After delivering the table it split as well as deforming the inserts and bolts. The humidity in the customers house was so low he used a humidifier. Over time the table was ruined. He feels his biggest error was in not using slotted holes in the c channel. Secondly, I find that weighing my project wood after cutting pieces but before dimensioning and checking weekly gives me good info on whether the wood has acclimated. Good luck.

[colinellicott]

Cool solution - thx. Not sure I'll ever use it but good to know.

[davidhill]

Thanks for the video it helps out a lot . You saved my table.👍👍🥰

[Masterg]

you sirt are a genious thank you for the indepth guide and explanation this is trully amazing