I made a beading tool from a file by gring and filing a radius on the tip. when I tried to make beads on some table legs I got fair results and bad results ( tear out). Previous attempts with a parting tool I was able to get some good beads and then on the next bead I would get a catch (?) and run a big spiral cut and make a mess out of the part.
I thought a beading tool would solve my problem but still having problems.
Question: is there a method to sharpen the home made file beading tool?
I face of the file was ground flat and the radius was done on a grinder and a round file.
Replies
Beading tool
I have a Lee Valley beading tool, and it sits under my bench. I really am not happy with the results of this tool either. Now it uses very thin sheets of steel just like a scraper blade, but it does not leave a sharp profile. I have tried forming a scraper type edge to the steel, ie a small hook, but that is hard on a 3/16" concave cutter edge.
Bruce is correct, use a tool to cut the profile, or a specific plane with a cutter head for that shape. I would use a router first anyday of the week.
AZMO
Wrong beading tool, methinks
I think that this is what we are talking about, for a lathe:
http://www.hartvilletool.com/shared/images/products//large/66354set.jpg
spindle beads
Those beading tools are scrapers and I find at best they still do a poor job. Work on using
a long nosed/shallow bevel detail spindle gouge or a skew. Superior cuts will be made by riding a bevel and making a good shearing cut.
With lots of practice and patience.
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