Custom finial question

[DLGunn]

Where do you get your material for the custom finial? I am making some Jr Gents and want to put custom finials in them. Do you cut your blank very close to the tube sizes and try to have just enough left over to make a finial with? Turn and part the finial off first? Or do you just buy an extra blank?

 

[Dan Masshardt]

Mark off the one tube at the end of the blank. Cut it off and mark how long the second tube is (usually the cap) but don't cut it.

Chuck it up and turn the finial You will normally have enough material even if you mess up once.

Once you part the finial piece off, part off any extra material to the line you marked.

Then you are ready to drill that blank right on the lathe.

 

[Carl Fisher]

^^^ One of the best methods I've heard yet. ^^^

Another option if you have already cut your blank is to glue the last bit to a waste block that you can mount in your chuck. Then turn your finial and part it off from the waste block.

 

[DLGunn]

Thanks guys