Tuesday, April 7, 2015

Expand Your Woodworking Skills with the Art of Woodturning

Woodturning is a unique skill in the woodworking world that involves spinning wood on a lathe to create intricate shapes and designs. It can be fun to learn, and a challenge to maste, but any beginner can learn the basics and in a couple hours have a finished project.

The skill of woodturning dates back to the Egyptians and has been refined through the years up to the modern machine lathes we currently use. The concept has always remained the same: a piece of wood spins on a stationary axis and tools are used to carve and shape the wood.

An easy first project is to make a goblet, as seen in the video above. Utensil handles, cups, bowls and table legs, can all be made on a lathe as well.

There are a variety of special woodturning tools you can use, including gouges and skews. A basic set of woodturning tools cost a little over $100 and lathes start at around $300-$700. Top lathes include models from Rockler and Jet. Make sure to always wear eye protection and use a dust collection system.

Woodturning Beginners Guide - A Goblet | Mike Waldt


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