Of the two main activities practiced on the lathe, spindle turning is the one most closely associated with furniture making. The process involves mounting a wood blank between the machine's headstock and tailstock and using a variety of turning tools to shape furniture parts, such as chair legs and bedposts, and other decorative pieces. Because the stock is mounted "between centers", the wood grain of the workpiece runs parallel to the axis of the lathe. In bowl, or faceplate turning, which is examined in Woodworking Plans Website pages, the grain of a blank is normally perpendicular to the machine's axis of rotation. Despite their differences, both activities do share several things in common: Correct mounting methods, proper tool use, and accurate measurement all are crucial to achieve satisfactory results.
Because spindle turning does not require cutting into end grain, the process involves relatively simple techniques, and no more than three or four tools are required. This makes turning between centers an ideal way to develop a feel for the lathe and good tool technique. On its simplest level, spindle turning is little more than connecting high and low points on a blank with shoulders, beads, and coves.
Woodworking Plans TV will provide an introduction to spindle turning techniques, from the repertoire of basic spindle cuts such as planing, sizing, and taper cuts to more decorative spindle cuts such as beads, coves, and balls that will enhance your objects. By sawing the blank in half and regluing it, you can create symmetrical split turnings and other spindle designs.
As with any activity on the lathe, the best way to learn is by experimentation. Wait until you have mastered the basic techniques before trying to reproduce complex spindle patterns. Use inexpensive wood for your blanks and practice with simple shapes until you are comfortable with the tools.
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on Friday, June 10th, 2011 at 6:35 am and is filed under Woodworking.
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