What is the best type of wood to use with a wood lathe?
Different types of wood have their own strengths and challenges, so the best for you depends on your skill level and personal preference. According to Shay, “Hardwoods and softwoods, such as walnut, fruit tree wood, and ash, are fantastic for turning.”
He adds that soft woods require more finesse and can be easily torn if speed isn’t adjusted properly. Walnut in particular is a popular option for bowl turning, due to its attractive grain pattern, rich colors, and overall durability.
What kind of safety considerations should wood lathe users keep in mind?
“Safety is critical when operating a lathe” Shay states, and I wholeheartedly agree. These powerful machines spin extremely fast, and their open design leaves users vulnerable to injury and even death. To prevent accidental entanglement in the rotating spindle or motor, Shay advises, “Make sure you are not wearing loose clothing or jewelry, and pull hair back while operating the machine.”
To minimize injury from flying debris or dislodged workpieces, you should always wear safety glasses or face shield from the moment the lathe is turned on. Before you even try to use your lathe, you should thoroughly review the instruction manual, and pay close attention to proper workpiece mounting procedures. If you can find one in your area, I highly recommend taking an introductory woodturning class.
To reduce the overall chances of injury, Shay also stressed the importance of never rushing a project, and taking your time as you work.
How do you finish your turned workpiece?
Once your piece is carved and sized properly, it’s time to finish it with sandpaper. First, shut off the lathe and remove the tool rest to give yourself plenty of room. Then, bring the lathe back up to a low speed, and move the sandpaper back and forth across the surface. Transition from lower grits (80 is a good starter grit) to higher until you reach your desired smoothness.
It’s important to not switch grits until all sanding marks are smoothed out, as they can practically disappear as you continue to sand with higher grits, and suddenly reappear when you apply your finish.
To sand the inside of bowls, many turners opt to power sand, using a drill-mounted sanding disc attached to a foam base. For narrow, hollow items, like cups or vases, wrap a piece of sandpaper around a dowel or tool handle to maneuver it inside.
Once sanded, you can finish the piece with a coat of lacquer, oil, or wax, depending on its intended use and your personal preference. Walnut oil is a popular option because of its food-safe qualities and deep penetration, and is applied by simply rubbing it into the wood. If you prefer a more natural look, don’t apply anything at all, and the raw wood will darken and patina over time.