Hi Barry. The easiest way would have been to rough turn the blank a year ago.
It would have been dry by now and would cut a lot better. Wood dries at a rate
of an inch per year plus a year.
At this point a coat of wax on the area will make the fibers of the wood stiff
enough to cut.
A coat of lacquer, shelac or sanding sealer will also work.
And as always keep your tools as sharp as possible when your nearing final
thickness.
Bob, Naugatuck Ct.
http://www.outofcontrol-woodturning.com