Learning the Basics of Spindle Turning

Introduction to Spindle Turning

Spindle turning is the foundation of woodturning, where the wood grain runs parallel to the lathe bed. This technique is used to create table legs, tool handles, pens, and decorative elements. Mastering spindle turning provides the essential skills needed for all woodturning projects.

Essential Equipment

The Lathe

• Mini or midi lathe - Perfect for beginners
• Variable speed control - Allows for safe learning
• Sturdy mounting - Prevents vibration and accidents

Basic Tools

• Spindle roughing gouge - For initial shaping
• Spindle gouge - For detail work and fine cuts
• Parting tool - For sizing and separating
• Skew chisel - For smooth finishing cuts (advanced)

Safety Equipment

• Face shield - Protects your entire face
• Safety glasses - Worn under the face shield
• Dust mask - Protects your lungs
• Close-fitting clothing - Prevents entanglement

Getting Started

Preparing Your Wood

1. Select straight-grained hardwoods like maple or cherry
2. Cut blanks to square stock slightly larger than finished diameter
3. Mark centers on both ends
4. Optional: Chamfer corners for easier roughing

Mounting the Wood

1. Install drive center in headstock
2. Install live center in tailstock
3. Mount blank between centers
4. Adjust tailstock for firm hold without compression

Basic Techniques

1. Roughing to Round

• Use spindle roughing gouge
• Tool rest at center height
• Gouge handle low, cutting edge at 45°
• Light cuts from larger to smaller diameter
• Check for round with tool rest as reference

2. Creating a Cylinder

• Continue with roughing gouge
• Take light finishing cuts
• Move tool steadily along length
• Aim for consistent diameter

3. Basic Shapes

Beads (Convex Curves)

• Use spindle gouge
• Start at center of bead
• Roll tool in direction of cut
• Take light cuts from center outward

Coves (Concave Curves)

• Use spindle gouge
• Start at edges of cove
• Roll tool as you cut
• Work from both sides toward center

Shoulders

• Use parting tool
• Cut straight in to required diameter
• Use pencil marks as guides

Common Beginner Projects

1. Tool Handle
   • Simple cylinder with comfortable grip
   • Opportunity to practice consistent diameter
2. Garden Dibber
   • Combines tapers and beads
   • Functional and forgiving
3. Spindle Exercise
   • Practice piece with repeating elements
   • Beads, coves, and fillets in sequence

Troubleshooting

Catches

• Cause: Tool presented incorrectly
• Solution: Maintain bevel contact, light cuts

Tear-out

• Cause: Cutting against the grain
• Solution: Sharper tools, lighter cuts

Chatter

• Cause: Tool overhang or vibration
• Solution: Minimize tool overhang, firmer grip

Once comfortable with basic spindle techniques:

• Practice skew chisel techniques
• Attempt more complex profiles
• Try copy turning (duplicating shapes)
• Explore end-grain projects