DIY Network

Getting Ready to Roll Getting Ready to Roll From "Woodturning Basics" episode DWTN-102

Figure A

1. A skew chisel is used to finish the surface. This chisel has a cutting edge at an angle to the end (figure A) and, by design, will leave a smooth finish on the surface of the cylinder.
   

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   	Figure B
   	Figure C
   	Figure D
   	Dave Hout and his student, Jane Lueders, show off the almost-finished rolling pin.

2. Bevel contact is very important here, to make sure it doesn't catch on the cylinder's surface. Start with the handle down, then bring it in so that it cuts from the middle of the tool tip, not from the ends. If it cuts from the ends, it will be more difficult to control. The proper movement removes tiny, smooth shavings (figure B), leaving a very clean-cut finish.

3. With the rolling pin still turning on the lathe, smooth with sandpaper (figure C), using first 100-grit, followed by 150-grit and finishing with 220-grit for a clean, even feel.
   

Trimming the Ends

Before the rolling pin is completely finished, the ends need to be trimmed. Take the pin off of the lathe, and using a pocket knife, carefully cut off the small remaining ends that held it to the lathe (figure D). If you try to break them off, the end grain of the wood will pull fibers out of the end, and you will have holes left in the end of the rolling pin. Cutting leaves a clean surface.

Tips for Beginning Wood Turners

Almost any type of wood can be used for any project if the grain and the blank are correctly proportioned for the project, but beginning wood turners should stick to solid quality woods, like oak, maple, pine or cherry. These are hardwoods that turn easily, and can be used for a variety of projects.

Expert wood turners also recommend that beginners use wet wood, since dry wood is harder to shape on a lathe. Wet wood, called green wood, is softer, doesn't chip as easily as dry wood, doesn't produce hazardous dust while turning, and doesn't wear tools down as fast as dry wood. And perhaps the best reason to start with wet wood: it costs less than dry wood.

It does, however, have one disadvantage. Finished products can sometimes crack or distort as they dry.