Hollowing Tool/s - Recommendations ??

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Gordon

Gordon

Member
Joined
Apr 25, 2005
Messages
181
Location
Wichita, KS, USA.
I've started to do some small bowl and other projects requiring interior
hollowing to an approximate depth of 4" to 5".

I'm presently using a 1/4" spindle gouge - that works alright - but I'm curious and confused by the various mini-hollowing tools that I see advertised by tool vendors.


Can anyone recommend a mini-hollowing tool/s that would be suitable
for basic learning and expanding upon my hollowing skills ?

Thanks as always.
Gordon
 
Last edited:
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Gordon said:
. . .Can anyone recommend a mini-hollowing tool/s that would be suitable for basic learning and expanding. . .
Click to expand...

First recommendation, get thee a basic bowl gouge. For bowls, platters, and such in-between, a bowl gouge will take you a long way.

A "Benjamin's Best" bowl gouge will not break the bank. Using a bowl gouge is easier and probably safer than a spindle gouge. Not to say it can't be done with a SG, but the BG is such a better tool for the job.

There are many "deep hollowing" tool types, work with a turning club to 1) learn some of the techniques and 2) use various types of tools until you find what works for YOU!

Just my .02; I ain't no expert by any stretch, but I'm learning much through my local turners club (Capital Area Woodturners here in NoVa).
 
Gordon - from what you describe, you need to stop doing what you are doing. A spindle gouge is for spindle work, hence the name, not bowl work. What you are doing is dangerous and you could get seriously hurt with a bad catch or if the tool breaks.

Take Michael's advice and get a bowl gouge. 3/8 or 1/2". If you are hollowing that deep you should be using full size tools not mini tools. Most bowls I make are from 1" (more like plates) to 4" deep and from 2" to 9" in diameter. I use either 1/2 or 3/8" bowl gouges. I don't own any mini tools.

You can do a search on IAP for bowl gouges and find more info.
 
Do you mean hollowing tools for vessels? or things like ornaments, If your just looking for a good bowl gouge try Doug Thompson, his Jimmy Clewes signature line is great, and I don't think they are badly priced considering the quality.
 
Before you hurt yourself..get videos..books from library..something and learn proper safe methods..
 
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