DIY Network

Turning the Rolling Pin From "Woodturning Basics" episode DWTN-102

Creating a Cylinder

1. From the block, Hout cuts a rectangular blank 20"x4" (figure A). This is the piece that will be turned on the lathe.

2. Find the center points of the blank on both ends, so that when it is put on the lathe, it will be centered, allowing the rolling pin cylinder to be as large as possible. Measure from corner to corner across the ends of the blank -- where the lines cross will be the center point. Mark that point (figure B).

3. Fit the blank between the head and tail stocks of the lathe.

   Figure A

   Figure B

   
   

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4. A large 1" spindle gouge is used to rough out the cylinder. For something of this size, this is a very useful tool (figure C). The size allows the corners to be knocked off more quickly, and since the corners come in contact with the tool gouge, the hands are partially protected from abuse.

5. The key to success with this tool is the bevel area behind the cutting edge, which controls the direction and depth of the cut. It can be difficult to keep the bevel in contact with the wood. Start with the bevel making contact an inch or so in from an edge, then raise the handle until it starts to cut, taking off small pieces. You don't want to break a long piece off the corner by starting in the middle, so start at the end and work inward (figure D). It gets easier once the corners are smoothed down and the cylinder begins to take shape.

   Figure C

   Figure D

   
   
6. Hold the gouge with one hand and use the other hand to keep the tool firmly in place on the tool rest (figure E). Keep the tool perpendicular. This allows the rotating force that the tool creates to run straight down the tool, giving greater control of the tool itself. Keeping control of the tool and finding the cutting edge is the hardest part for any beginner.

7. After several minutes, the square shape gives way to the cylinder form (figure F), and the different woods come together to form beautiful patterns.

   Tip: Remember to cut with the grain, following the direction of the turning lathe (figure G).
   

Figure E

Figure F

Figure G