Note – This post is from our newsletter archives. It was the President’s message by Pat McCart from the November, 2010 issue of Chips & Shavings.
I reached another personal milestone on my bowl turning journey the other day when I signed my 200th bowl. I quickly pondered what I have learned about turning since the numbers on the bottoms of my bowls entered triple digits. I narrowed it down to 5 items that I think will help most new turners avoid some pit falls and have more fun.
- Learn how to sharpen your tools and do it often. If you think your tool “might be” dull it is!
- One high quality tool is better than a set of “ok” tools. My Grandpa use to tell me “a top quality tool is always worth the price and a cheap one never was”.
- Cutting the wood is better than sanding it into submission. Learn how each tool cuts and proper tool positioning to minimize your sanding time.
- Green wood is a hoot to turn! Get some green wood and turn it into shavings on the floor. It helps you learn tool control and sharpening. It is sure to be an eye opening and grin inducing time at your lathe.
- Woodturners are really good people. I have made hundreds of friends from all walks of life and have found them to be some of the most generous people around. Most turners will go out of their way to help you improve your turning skills.
Be safe, have fun and make shavings.
