Intro to Woodturning

You'll complete a small project in this beginner-level class.

• Session 1: Learn about woodturning safety, bevel contact, and gouge techniques with a focus on good body mechanics, all of which are important to building a foundation for your  turning skills. Use the spindle roughing gouge during most of the class, then get an introduction to the regular (“fingernail”) spindle gouge.
• Session 2: Review the earlier lesson then focus on the spindle gouge and parting tool as you learn new mechanics for turning beads and coves. Toward the end of class, learn how scroll chucks and tenons work.
• Session 3: Increase the precision and enjoyment of your turning technique by making a small project such as a tea-light holder,  honey dipper, spinning top, or goblet with your own design elements. Use a negative-rake scraper to smooth the surface, while using a scroll chuck, a Jacobs chuck, and a Forstner bit where needed. Learn the basics of sanding and how to use the buffing system. If you need more time to complete the project, instructors will help you in Open Studio.

Completing this class clears you to use the wood lathes for spindle turning during open studio. While you also will be eligible to take a bowl-turning class, it is strongly suggested you spend time turning in open studio a few times before you enroll in a bowl class.

Materials

Prerequisites

Class Policies

Instructors or Guides