DIY Network

Spinning Metal into a Bowl From "Woodturning Techniques" episode DWTT-109

Figure A

A metal disk begins its transformation in to a bowl (figure A).

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Figure B

Steps:

1. An aluminum disk is mounted on the lathe and held snug in place with the wooden block on the tail rest. As the machine is turned on, the stick is placed between the tool rest and the piece, with the stick handle positioned under the arm to provide needed leverage (figure B).

Figure C

2. The stick is then bought up to touch the edge of the uncentered piece and the tail stock pressure is loosened just enough to push the disk on center (figure C). Use caution when pushing the disk on center, since it will fly off if the pressure has been released too much; keep in mind this is a small movement in every way.

Figure D

3. Once on center, the disk is tightened into place and a vegetable based metal spinning lubricant (actually, this is a food safe soap) is applied to the disk; allowing the tool to slide over the surface without grabbing the metal (figure D).

Figure E

4. Using firm pressure, and beginning at the bottom, the metal is "locked" onto the form (figure E).

Figure F

5. Next, the tool moves quickly back and forth from the bottom center to the outside and then back to the center. Heavy pressure is used close to the bottom of the form, but lighter pressure is required as the tool moves outward to keep the disk from bending out of shape. Keep the tool moving and move the metal while keeping the tool under the metal; this technique gives the tool more natural force (figure F).