DIY Network

Using a Smoothing Tool From "Woodturning Techniques" episode DWTT-110

After turning the cove, the next step in turning the spindle is to put a long taper on the legs.

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Figure A

Steps:

1. Calipers are used to determine the diameter of the base of the legs before the legs can be tapered (figure A). When turning spindles it is important to remember the mass of the piece is always kept at the top of the lathe to absorb the vibration of the lathe, rather than driving the vibration through the narrow section of the spindle where it will absorb the bulk of the turning vibration, resulting in possible distortion or damage to the spindle.

2. A skew is used to make the wood surface very smooth (figure B). The knife stays perpendicular to the wood as it slices through the wood fibers, creating a smooth cut that requires no sanding. While making the cut, the tool rests on it's edge on the tool rest; it is never used flat (figure C).

Figure B

Figure C

3. The bottom of the leg is marked with the dividers (figure D). Next, a small v-shape is formed and the bottom edge of the leg is slightly rounded to prevent the fibers from splintering when the table is pulled across the floor (figure E).

Figure D

Figure E

Figure F

4. Keep in mind spindles will always be placed apart from each other by at least a few inches, so it's important for the design elements to line up horizontally; dimensions in diameter aren't nearly as important, because the average eye won't notice slight variances in symmetry (figure F).