Ernie,
First, let me say that have enjoyed your articles in Fine Woodworking magazine over the years. I would like to get your advice on getting started in woodturning. I am a business professional with a large company and have been indulging a passion for woodworking as a hobby for a number of years. I have a reasonably well equipped shop in a two car garage and have been wanting t incorporate woodturing into my skill set for some time. Based on the review in Fine Woodworking #188, I just purchased a Rikon 70-100 Midi-lathe, along with a bed extension, giving me a 40″ capacity. I like the fact that it has a 12″ swing and an 8″ tool rest, as well as being heavier than most. The indexing head is a plus as well.
Now to my question. I have been researching lathe tools and the more I read, the more confused I become. It seems that everyone has a different opinion on what is a good set to start out with. There is also a fair amount of crossover in what can be done with various tools. I am sold on HSS Steel, and was wondering if you might make a recommendation on what I need to have to get started on a lathe of this size. My goal is to turn spindles, knobs and pulls, and legs as well as bowls and other faceplate work. Also, is there a manufacturer that you like more than the others? Being frugal, I would also like to locate a resonable source since there seems to be some variance on prices.
I will appreciate any advice that you can give me.
Regards,
Dave
PS. Where exactly is Parkman? I grew up in Ohio and a large portion of my family resides in Oregonia, which is just north of Cincinnati, between Waynesville and Lebanon, off of I-71.
Replies
Dear Dave,
Parkman is about half way between Chagrin Falls and Warren Ohio on U.S. Route 422. Maps and directions can be found at http://www.conoverworkshops.com/maps-driving-directions.
The order in which I would build a set of HSS tools is as follows: spindle gouge, bowl gouge, parting tool, roughing-out gouge, skew chisel and, finally, scrapers. Premium tools are offered in two types: standard and long-and-strong. Standard tools are what we use every day, while the more robust long-and-strong tools are for heavy-duty faceplate work. You will need them only if you progress to large bowl turning.
Finally, avoid commercial sets of tools, unless they are such a bargain you cannot pass them up. Sets tend to include only two or three tools you really need, and the rest eventually become expensive scrapers. Typically a set has a skew that is too narrow for a beginner (1" or bigger is the size to start with) and is never an oval skew which is easier for a beginner. The spindle gouge will be too small as well and a bowl gouge is usually missing. The scrapers in the typical set are shaped to better remove weeds from a sidewalk than turning. Got to get off the soap box now as I am out of breath. There is all this and more in my book The Lathe Book by Taunton Press.
With best regards,
Ernie Conover
Ernie,
Thanks for the info. What starting sizes would you recommend on the Spindle and Bowl gouges? I am planning on a 1 1/4" roughing gouge and a 1/8" or 3/16" diamond parting tool. It sounds like a 1" oval skew is the way to go. Would a round nose scraper be my first choice and what size is best for starter?
Have you ever run across Dave Kelch? He is my uncle and one of the Oregonia bunch. He is responsible for my catching the woodworking bug....
Regards,
Dave
You can see my recommended spindle list at this URL http://www.conoverworkshops.com/mastering-spindle-turning-tool-list. Bowl turning list can also be found on our site. Can't place your uncle but I may have met him. With best regards,
Ernie Conover
Ernie,
Thanks for the info! This has helped with the confusion of where to start buying tools. I will plan a trip to see my family around one of your future class dates and will look forward to meeting you in person.
Regards,
Dave
This forum post is now archived. Commenting has been disabled