First Bowl = FAILURE

[AndrewB]

So I began carving out and hollowing my bowl.  Everything went fine of course.  Even tried out my new tool rests which fit perfectly.  How ever the deeper into the project I get the more the chisels want to catch on the sides.  So I decided to make it a bit shallower.  In the end it didn't even really turn out the way I really wanted it to.  How ever I still finished it off.  But I guess I'll try again soon LOL.  Not sure if I want to continue with bowls or try something else with turning not sure at this point.  But in my own opinion I think this first go was a failure.

[Larry Buskirk]

Andrew,

It's not a failure if you had fun, and learned something doing it.

[AndrewB]

I just gotta figure out a better way to do that I guess maybe it will be easier.  Unless I just tried making one that was too small.

[Gerald]

Not bad. You know segmented is not usually a beginners project so good start.

The deal with catches when hollowing is usually in the fact that you cannot see the orientation for the tool and cannot align the cutter. You could try making a mark at the center top of the tool with it oriented to cut. Then if it goes north ( or clockwise) too much you know to adjust. When hollowing with carbides start with the tool at about 45% down and gradually reduce that angle, but never less than about 10 . Above that is a very good chance at that catch. This shows the advantage of using round bar hollowers as the tool just rotates when catch occurs.

 

Even more fun is a hollowing rig but I am sure you will be asking soon.

[AndrewB]

Thanks both of ya.  I'm not sure why but I guess I always just try to start and work from the hard way down to easy way.  I guess that's just the best way I learn things.  Mistakes make for better learning I guess in my case.

[Gunny]

First try not bad. Here is the thing. You learned to crawl, then walk and finally run.  You cannot skip the falling down part. (Experience)

 

I wouldn't give up. Stay at it.

Edited July 3, 2020 by Gunny

[Larry Buskirk]

...Wait until you see my first piece once I'm set back up.

...I haven't turned any wood in 45+ years. 

...Man does that make me feel old. 

[lew]

No turning is ever a failure. They just become something other than what was in your mind's eye.

 

@Gerald offered great tips. I think the Savannah tools can use Easy Wood cutters. You might check that out and if they do, get a negative rake cutter. Those cutters really reduce catches.

[AndrewB]

I’m still debating on whether or not to spend them money on easy wood chisels.  With the savanna chisels I’m honestly not liking the grips.  I couldn’t help myself lol.  I got myself a set of the easy wood chisels.  At least when they get here I’ll be able to do a comparison on them.

Edited July 3, 2020 by AndrewB

[lew]

Having never used the Savannah tools, I can't comment on the "feel" of using them. I do like the fit and finish on all of the Easy Wood products.

[Larry Buskirk]

Gee Wiz I guess I'll be the only "Old School" turner. 

My lathe is from 1941, my chisels from the late 30's early 40's.

[Artie]

I have never turned so I have no advice on the subject. I am however in the crowd that needs to make every mistake possible to learn LOL. Some can read a book, watch a YouTube video, and then know exactly what they are doing. I need to keep muddling and making mistakes before I gain the knowledge on how to accomplish something. To quote Thomas Alva Edison (loosely) “ I did not fail, I learned one way not to get the end result I wanted” (something like that, you get the point) One of the lessons I HAVE learned is-while first starting a new undertaking, do it on cheaper/less expensive materials until competency has been obtained. You have also given those of us who have not turned but are contemplating it, ideas about some of the obstacles/learning curves involved. I, for one, would be interested in following along with your journey in turning. Thank you.

[AndrewB]

@Larry Buskirk  I've got a set of HSS chisels, how ever for me carbide has been a lot easier to work with rather than having to constantly sharpen tools on a regular basis.

[Larry Buskirk]

2 hours ago, AndrewB said:

@Larry Buskirk  I've got a set of HSS chisels, how ever for me carbide has been a lot easier to work with rather than having to constantly sharpen tools on a regular basis.

I've got three out of the four carbide tipped chisels that Delta offered during the early 40's along with the complete set of HSS that were given to me by a former co-worker that didn't like the way they felt when using them.

I was by his place with another former co-worker and saw the box on a shelf above his lathe, and commented wow where did you find the old Delta chisels? He replied want them? They're yours, I don't like the way they feel.

I don't argue with getting freebies, especially when they're collectables.

 

I've seen the same sets go on eBay for over $100.00. 

 

[FlGatorwood]

Don't feel bad, Larry.  I have a set of Great Necks, I think.  They are old and I have to sharpen after each turning, but I have grown to know how to use them and make them work for me.  Folks and I are all amazed at the results.  I turned some finials for a house next door and everyone there marveled at what I did.  So did I.  But, the feeling is very comfortable.  I don't know if my health will hold long enough to warrant another set of chisels.  

[AndrewB]

As it turns out the Easy Wood Tools will be here today LOL.  I mean I only ordered them yesterday.  What is amazon back to its one day shipping lol.  So it looks like I'll be able to get some what of a comparrison.

[HandyDan]

Larry and Steve, it must be what we get comfortable with.  I have this old Craftsman set and use them most often even though I have the Easy Wood Tools and an extensive set of Sorby tools.