Best Turned Wood Piece–2016
League of NH Craftsmen Fair at Sunapee
I have learned how to and can teach one to master the art of cutting, fitting and gluing up segments. That’s the easy part. However, without good form it really does not matter how good your segments are.
You have to start with drawings. I like using graph paper with 1/4˝ x 1/4˝ squares. You could use one of the many computer software programs designed for this purpose but I still I like to draw by hand. Using graph paper, pencil and French curves, it’s quite simple and can be done very quickly. I can easily get a symmetrical shape at both sides of center by using points on the graph paper. Using a light table with the paper folded along the centerline will also work.
After completing a drawing, I like to let it set on my table a few days where I can walk by, pick it up and look at it making sure I’m happy with the shape, or in other words, the form. Sometimes I get it with one try but most times there will be adjustments needed.
I was able to get the short rounded one of the three on the first try. I got the tallest one in two or maybe three tries but the smaller narrow vase took several tries. There is a subtle transition from convex to concave lines that were a challenge to get right. The point is take as much time as needed at this stage of the project. It goes without saying that you would do this for any worthwhile woodworking project.