DIY Network

Cutting a Cylinder Cutting a Cylinder From "Woodturning Techniques" episode DWTT-101

Figure A

Working with wood isn't just a hobby or a job for Dave Hout, it's his passion (figure A): Hout has been turning for more than 25 years. One of his favorite projects is creating a versatile container and lid from a single piece of fresh, green wood. It's a great project for beginners, as it requires only basic skills -- but you'll have a finished product that you'll be proud to show off or give as a gift. Joining Hout for the project is student Lucy Scott.

advertisement

Figure B

Tools(figure B)
1" roughing gouge
1/2" spindle gouge
Parting tool
Square end scraper
Fresh, wet wood blank

	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

Steps

1. Starting with the roughing gouge, which has a shallow flute and is used for spindle work, shave the wood from a square into a cylinder (figure C).

2. Starting at one end of the wood blank, remove fibers in short, small cuts. If you start in the center, you can cause the wood to split completely down one side of the turning blank. When the bevel on the gouge is touching the wood, raise the handle to start making the cut in the wood. If the tool bounces against the wood, lower the handle; this allows the bevel to make contact with the wood and gives you control of the process (figure D).

3. When the cylinder is completely round, cut the tenons (figure E). Tenons are put on each end of the wood cylinder to hold it in the chuck, where it will next be separated into the two parts needed for the lid and the bowl. The chuck is adjustable, so the tenon cut doesn't have to be measured exactly. It's important, however, that each tenon be cut straight and the shoulder be square to the tenon. Perpendicular lines are needed so the chuck can hold the wood tightly in place on the lathe.