DIY Network

Earrings and Lathes From "Woodturning Techniques" episode DWTT-108

Figure A

Dave hasn't forgotten about the earrings. He also discusses how to choose a lathe. (figure A)

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Earrings

Steps:

1. Using a spindle gouge, a red heart blank is turned true.

2. Next, the thin disc is parted from the blank, using a parting tool.

Figure B

3. With a pencil, an organic design is drawn down the center of the disc (figure B).

Note: Dave likes turning both the small spindle style as well as shallow dish shapes that can be cut after turning to make a pair from one disk. The varieties of these styles are almost unlimited and allows for good turning practice.

It is fun to turn these projects from rare and/or exotic woods because they require very small pieces you don’t have much expense in the wood as your might for a bowl or other object. This also gives the turner the opportunity to learn how many of these woods cut and finish. Some examples of woods that Dave particularly likes are: cocobolo, ebonies, red heart, purple heart, zebra. If you don’t have those any colored or highly figured woods readily available, try using use aniline dyes or artists’ markers to add color and interest to the pieces.

4. The disc is next put into a vice and the design is cut out, using a coping saw.

5. The edges are sanded and holes are drilled for the findings. Note: To drill the holes, run the drill in reverse; the movement is less aggressive.

Choosing a Lathe

Small jewelry projects such as these are well suited for small lathes, since they use very small amounts of wood and offer great turning practice. But when purchasing a lathe, keep in mind the size of the lathe and it's horsepower determine the size of a project. Veteran turner and lathe expert Brad Packard offers the following advice when considering the purchase of a lathe.

Figure C

1. Small lathes fit in small spaces and use less current, requiring no special electrical considerations. They have a live tail center, rotating with the work piece rather than building up heat and vibration. Limitations are just under 10 inches in diameter, and at approximately 16 inches between centers, they are compatible with turning plates and bowls (figure C). Prices begin at about $300.

Figure D

2. Larger lathes have a number of features that make them easy to use. The head stock can swivel to the side, making it easier to hollow out bowls. An outboard tool rest brings the rest up to the work, while the lathe itself is compatable with work 16-28 inches in diameter (figure D). Prices range from $1800 - $2500.

Figure E

3. And, if turning projects require even larger, more powerful, lathes, they exist at price ranges starting at around $5700.00 (figure E).

Figure F

And while lathes are available in a range of prices, and with a multitude of features designed to fit the needs of a beginner or a highly sophisticated turner, the finesse of small projects is defined by the precision of your skills alone (figure F).