Woodshop Turning Tool Guide

This guide covers the essential tools used on all three wood lathes at Loveland CreatorSpace: the Jet 1642EVS‑2, Jet Mini Lathe JML‑1014I, and PSI Turncrafter TCLC10VS. It explains what each tool does, when to use it, and how to choose the right tool for your project.

1. Tool Families

Gouges

• Spindle Roughing Gouge — Used to turn square stock into round cylinders. Not for bowls.

• Spindle Gouge — For beads, coves, and detailed spindle work.

• Bowl Gouge — Stronger, deeper flute for shaping bowls inside and out.

Scrapers

• Round‑nose Scraper — Smooths interior curves.

• Flat Scraper — Levels surfaces and cleans up straight sections.

• Negative‑Rake Scraper — Safer for delicate finishing cuts.

Parting Tools

• Standard Parting Tool — Cuts tenons, separates workpieces.

• Thin‑Kerf Parting Tool — Minimizes waste and reduces friction.

Specialty Tools

• Hollowing Tools — For vases and deep vessels.

• Carbide Tools — Easy to use; good for beginners and quick shaping.

• Texturing Tools — Adds decorative patterns.

2. Choosing the Right Tool

Spindle Work (Pens, Handles, Ornaments)

Use:

• Spindle roughing gouge

• Spindle gouge

• Skew chisel (optional, advanced)

Bowls and Platters

Use:

• Bowl gouge (primary tool)

• Round‑nose scraper (refining)

• Negative‑rake scraper (finishing)

Hollow Forms

Use:

• Hollowing tools

• Specialized scrapers

Small Projects (Mini Lathe / PSI Lathe)

Use:

• Carbide tools for quick shaping

• Spindle gouge for detail

• Small bowl gouge for tiny bowls

3. Tool Techniques

Roughing

• Use a spindle roughing gouge for spindles.

• Use a bowl gouge for bowls.

• Keep the tool rest close.

Shaping

• Ride the bevel.

• Keep cuts light and controlled.

• Adjust stance for stability.

Finishing

• Scrapers remove tool marks.

• Negative‑rake scrapers reduce tear‑out.

• Sand at low speed.

4. Tool Maintenance

Sharpening

• Gouges require regular sharpening.

• Carbide tools use replaceable cutters.

• Scrapers need a clean burr.

Storage

• Return tools to the lathe cabinet.

• Keep edges protected.

Inspection

• Check handles for cracks.

• Ensure ferrules are tight.

5. Safety Notes

• Always wear a face shield when bowl turning.

• Keep tools sharp to avoid catches.

• Maintain a firm grip and stable stance.

• Never use a spindle roughing gouge on bowls.