(517) 204-7555

Introduction to Woodturning: From Blank to Bowl in 2-6 Hours

 

This workshop is designed for beginners and craftsmen who want to hone their turning skills. Over the course of 2-6 hours (depending on group size, experience and pace), you’ll learn the fundamentals of turning wood bowls, from understanding the tools and safety procedures to creating your very own finished piece (hopefully)!

Description:

  • Hands-on experience turning wood bowls on a lathe.
  • Learn essential lathe components and their functions.
  • Discover safe handling techniques for tools and wood.
  • Practice basic bowl turning using gouges, scrapers and other tools.
  • Explore various wood options and finishing techniques.
  • Take home your completed bowl as a reminder of your accomplishment!

Schedule:

Part 1: Introduction & Safety

  • Welcome and introductions
  • Overview of the workshop and schedule
  • Review of potential projects
  • Safety briefing on lathe operation and tool handling
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) demonstration and fitting

Part 2: Lathe Components & Demonstration

  • Introduction to the lathe and its key parts (headstock, tailstock, tool rest, etc.)
  • Demonstration of basic bowl turning techniques by the instructor
  • Explanation of different wood types and their suitability for turning

Part 3: Hands-on Turning

  • Students practice turning prepared wood blanks under the instructor’s guidance
  • Introduction to basic bowl turning tools and their uses (gouges, parting tool, skew chisel)
  • Individualized coaching and troubleshooting
  • Rough turning and refining the bowl shape
  • Sanding and finishing techniques

Part 4: Wrap-up & Q&A

  • Review of finished bowls by students
  • Open discussion and Q&A session
  • Course wrap-up and next steps

Options for Class Materials:

  • Students may choose to bring their own wood blanks or use pre-prepared blanks from the instructor.
  • Tools and safety equipment will be provided by the instructor.  You are welcome to bring your own work gloves, safety glasses and masks.
  • Wear old clothing and please ensure that  you don’t have loose fitting shirt sleeves.
  • Various finishing materials (oils, waxes) may be available for use.

Finishes:

  • This workshop will cover basic oil and wax finishes for wooden bowls.
  • Students may choose to apply their preferred finish or leave the bowl unfinished.

Safety:

  • Safety is top priority in this workshop.
  • Students will be thoroughly briefed on proper safety procedures before operating the lathe and using other equipment.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) will be mandatory for all participants.

Additional Notes:

  • The exact schedule and content may vary depending on the instructor’s teaching style and the pace of the group.
  • This outline is a starting point, and the instructor may add additional information or activities as needed.
  • Feel free to help us modify this outline to fit your specific needs and preferences.

Class Pricing

  • Price depends on number of students
  • An hourly rate is established before class begins
  • Discounts and group rates are available!

I hope this helps you create a comprehensive and engaging woodturning class outline!