March, 2003 - Let's Turn
A demonstration for new and inexperienced Woodturners
(And for some of us older turners that need a refresher!)

Thanks to Don Morehead and George Raeder for their time and efforts.

 Don explains that Safety is the first and primary consideration in woodturning. There are several rules of woodturning, as explained in the book Woodturning: A Foundation Course; by Keith Rowley.

 

  • The speed of the lathe must be adjusted to suit the size, weight, and length of the wood being turned.  

  • The tool must be on the tool rest before the whirling timber is engaged, and must remain so whenever the tool is in contact with the wood.

  • The bevel (guiding angle) of the cutting tool must rub the wood behind the cut.

  • The only part of the tool that should be in contact with the wood is that part of the tool that is receiving direct support from the tool rest.

  • Always cut the wood "downhill" with the grain.

  • Scrapers must be dept perfectly flat (in section) on the tool rest and presented in the "training mode"; i.e.: with the tool handle higher than the tool edge.

Guide to Lathe Speeds

Between Centers Turning
Stock Size Up to 24 Inches Over 24 Inches
Up to 2 1/2" square 2000RPM 1500 RPM
2 1/2" to 4" 1500 RPM 1000 RPM
Over 4" 1000 RPM 750 RPM

Faceplate Turning
Stock Size Up to 2" Over 2"
Up to 8" 1000 RPM 750 RPM
8" to 12" 750 RPM 750 RPM
Over 12" Slowest Available Slowest Available

 

George explains some of the "ins and outs" of turning. He reinforces the need for concentration and safety. Past that you have to understand what you are actually doing when turning wood.
George relates the grain of the wood to a bundle of straws.  He explains that turning is like cutting this bundle of straws with a knife.  If you cut with the grain, with the lower straws supporting the upper ones, it will cut nicely, but if you cut against the grain, with no supporting straws, they will just shread.
George explains four basic tool groups.

1. Parting Tools
2. Scrapers
3. Gouges - Roughing, Spindle, and Bowl
4. Skews
George then went on to discuss and demonstrate turning a bowl. He presented several options and techniques that could be used in chucking, roughing, finishing, etc.
A portion of the highly appreciative group that stayed for George and Don's demo. Thanks again for the time. We look forward to more Let's Turn sessions.

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