7 Ways NOT to Turn a Bowl

by Paul Carter | September 23, 2016

In the midst of how-to videos and articles, Nick Cook offers a different type of insight. 

• Too big. Start by mastering crucial techniques on smaller, shallow bowls. 
• Too hard. Start with green wood, it can be found inexpensively and will provide smooth, easier cuts.
• Big gap at the tool rest. If the tool extends more than an inch over the tool rest it's time to stop the lathe and adjust the tool rest.
• Wrong direction. For face grain bowls cut uphill. On the interior of your bowl, cut downhill or from rim to center. 
• Wrong tools. Remember to never use a roughing gouge on bowl work. A 1/2" or 5/8" bowl gouge makes great beginners' bowl gouge. 
• Rushing into finishing. Don't worry about finishing a piece, focus on basic shape and confidence. Practice pieces are most important as you begin turning bowls. 
• Lack of body movement. Notice how most turners move with their work. This allows them to produce fluid curves.