Bowl Turning for Beginners
2-Day - Weekend
Tuition: $325
Ages: 16 & Up
Instructor: Peter Densmore
Instructional Delivery Method(s): In person
Prerequisites: None
Program Level: Beginner, Intermediate
Program Description:
Learn the basics of bowl turning as you create simple side and end-grain bowls followed by a more complex lidded box.
On day one we'll begin with lathe safety, basic wood science, and a discussion of how bowl blanks can be made from logs in your own backyard. We will then move into turning simple side grain bowls. By the afternoon students will have the opportunity to apply the same techniques to a live edge side grain bowl, learning to use interrupted cuts to preserve bark and other features.
Day two will introduce end grain bowl techniques, focused on a lidded box project or cup. Afternoon time will be kept available on day two for students to continue focusing on whichever projects interest them most.
No prior turning experience necessary.
Click here to view our course cancellation policy.
Learning Objectives:
Learn essential lathe safety, including appropriate PPE, safe tool-rest positioning, speed selection, and checking workpieces before starting the lathe.
Identify the primary tools and equipment used in bowl turning, including bowl gouges, scrapers, chucks, faceplates, and drive centers.
Understand wood grain orientation and how grain direction affects cutting technique, surface quality, and project design.
Learn methods for mounting and securing turning blanks safely between centers and in a four-jaw chuck.
Develop fundamental bowl-gouge techniques for shaping exterior profiles and making controlled cuts,
Turn a side-grain bowl, including forming the exterior profile, creating a chucking tenon, hollowing the interior, and establishing a consistent wall thickness.
Turn a live-edge bowl while learning to safely manage interrupted cuts and incorporate the natural edge of the blank into the finished form. Learn about drying techniques for green bowls.
Turn a lidded box, developing greater precision through fitting mating components and creating a well-fitting lid.
Learn techniques for measuring wall thickness, diameters, and fitted components during the turning process.
Practice sanding and surface preparation on the lathe and understand how to identify and correct common turning defects.
Apply an appropriate finish to turned work.
Attendance Requirements: Students must attend all days
Location: Sam Beauford Woodshop, 1375 N. Main St, Building 41, Adrian, Michigan 49221
Class Size: Maximum 8
Refund, Cancellation, and Complaint Resolution Policies
If you have any questions about this class, please contact the Administrative Office at (517) 759-3070 or email admissions@sbwi.edu.