Sassafras Cabin Stair Railings

I thought I'd report in briefly this morning on a project I've been dragging out for a couple years.  That project involves the stair railing that leads to the cabin loft.  I've discovered that sassafras works well for non-loadbearing spindle work.   With the use of a draw knife or other similar tool, you'll expose a layer of orange between the cambium layer and outer bark.  A look that, as far as I know, is available only with the easy to find North American sassafras tree.

Sassafras is a very lightweight wood, not much more dense than balsa.  As a result it's very easy to work with.

I'll keep you posted on sassafras, hickory and oak as this project drags on...

NOTE:  The table was a gift from my Ol' fiend, Nick-Nick-Nick...still in use after all these years:)