I just purchased a lathe, grinder Wolverine sharpeing system along with the Vari-Grind. I purchased 4 Sorby tools, one being a 1/2″ spindle gouge. My question is, on the Wolverine system video, it shows how to use the Vari-Grind but I’m confused in how to figure out what notch to set the leg on. Basically I’ve found that no matter where the leg is set I can adjust the bevel to line up with the grinding wheel by moving the arm in or out. The video says to set it on the 5th notch down when doing a bowl gouge, I think, but I don’t see why he does that.
I played around this weekend on the lathe and find it addictive. I’m sure I’ll have a lot more questions. The skew and I are having some issues right now.
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Well this will not be the most popular answer but I firmly believe that jigs for sharpening turning tools are really an oxymoron and here is why. The very same motor skills required to freehand turn the wood are exactly the same as those needed for freehand grinding the bevel on the tool. Also turning requires very frequent grinding and stopping to set up and use a jig breaks the rhythm. Learn to grind freehand and your enjoyment of woodturning will increase dramatically. Also the edge straight from the grinder is fine, no honing required.
As to the skew, taming it is difficult but just requires practice. Always remember RUB THE BEVEL! Get some fire wood and make some shavings and have fun!
I am just getting into bowl turning. I have watched Richard Raffan's DVD on turning several times and he has same opinion: learn to sharpen freehand or with just a sold basic platform. He also suggests that the beginning turner do a lot of basic practice work with green wood. I have been thinking that I should buy a couple of cheap import gouges(Highland Hardware, Lee-Valley, Penn-State) and learn to sharpen freehand the same way: lots of trial and error on easily disposable subjects!
Paul,
Good question - I've never thought about it. I think it has to do with how the grind carries on to the side.
Chris @ www.flairwoodwork.spaces.live.com
(soon to be www.flairwoodworks.com)
- Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful. - Albert Schweitzer
Here's a link to some info on setting up your jig.
http://www.thompsonlathetools.com/sharpening.asp
Distance that you set the Wolverine arm away from your wheel will dictate the bevel angle. 55-70 d. for bowl gouges, flatter for detail gouges, just to give you some starting points.
R
Thanks. The attachment was very helpful. I'll try it when I get home tonight.
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