At this point, the two pieces of wood are separated and the bowl will begin to take shape. Be sure to work carefully and deliberately to avoid accidents (to yourself OR the wood).
1. The wood blank is measured against a finished bowl and lid to choose the location to separate the two pieces of wood. The cut should be made slightly wider than the width of the tool to prevent the wood from grabbing the side of the tool as you cut deeper into the blank.2. Do not completely separate the two pieces of wood while the lathe is turning to prevent them from coming off the lathe. Stop the cutting process with the two pieces of wood still slightly intact. Taking hold of the top piece of wood while the lathe is beginning to come to a stop will cause it to separate from the bottom portion of the blank (figure A). 3. A chuck that will clamp on to the blank's tenon is attached to the lathe's center. The fit doesn't have to be tight, but it should be snug (figure B).
4. Next, consider the shape you want for the bowl. The outside of the bowl will be turned first, thus dictating how the inside will be turned. And a small section of wood should remain on the base of the bowl where it is attached to the chuck, when the piece is finished.5. When removing wood, always cut with the fibers of the grain. Cutting from larger to smaller diameter in the direction of the grain ensures a smooth cut (figure C. If the blank is cut in the opposite direction, the wood would chip. 6. Keep shaping in mind as wood is removed from the blank (figure D). If desired, you can also move back and forth along the top and bottom of the bowl as it is shaped.
7. Make an indentation at the bottom of the blank to have a visual cue where you need to stop the base of the bowl, while leaving the reserve base of wood (figure E).8. Remember to roll the edge of the tool over the wood for a smoother look to the bowl and always watch the top of the blank to maintain the correct profile of the piece (figure F). If you watch the tool too often while turning the bowl, you tend to create flat spots; if you watch the horizon you'll create a smooth, continuous line.
9. Keep the tool close to the body, not reaching out with your arms, and direct the tool movement with your legs as you move the tool over the blank; this natural motion gives a fluid line to the turned container.
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