So I figured since its been warm Id work on my step fathers birthday gift while he was over in the hospital.  Covid restrictions you can't really go and visit oh well.  I was hoping to have this done by the time he got out of the hospital but it may not be done in time.  I started making this pepper mill a while back.  I didn't like the shape of the top that I was turning with the ash wood.  So I improvised and used a maple top that I was just going to discard and made it work for the body.  I'm quite impressed with how well the two different wood types match up with each other quite nicely I think.  First coat of stain is on I still have to sand and stain the bottom top and bottom of the top piece.  Either way hopefully I will have this finished up in a day or two.  Also I added in some decorations on the body, I wouldn't really call that beading.  But they look decent I think at least.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nicely done. I’m sure he will really appreciate it. 

Thanks @lew I'm still trying to figure out a better way to keep up the dust collection system.  The shop vac did the trick worked quite well actually just noisy.  But gotta figure something out to keep it up level with the piece.

47 minutes ago, AndrewB said:

But gotta figure something out to keep it up level with the piece.

I think there's probably as many different ideas about that as there are turners! 

 

I seriously thought about using one of these

https://www.amazon.com/Heavy-Duty-Flexible-Gooseneck-Chrome-Plated/dp/B00QVYZBTY

 

I also considered a shop made articulate arm. Something along these lines-

 

But my lathe sets so close to the wall and tool holders that these ideas didn't seem to be likely candidates. 

Sadly I don't think I have the know how or patience to attempt to put one of those things together LOL.

13 hours ago, AndrewB said:

Sadly I don't think I have the know how or patience to attempt to put one of those things together LOL.

 Don't sell yourself short. If patience runs out set it aside for another day.