Most classes we’ve done a wood turned box. But to go from no experience, learn the basic cuts with the most common tools up to making a box in one session was taking a bit too long, so I’ve mixed it up (also for my own personal interest).
With Janet and Mimi, we started a bit late and Janet has been doing some wood carving, so we figured the mallet was a good project. This last Thursday I had two people who had turned before, so we focused more on technique with more advanced cuts on the skew chisel, and some wood preparation techniques. I keep the classes small enough where everyone has their own lathe. If you have something that you’d like to work on, tell me ahead of time and we can figure out if it is viable.
I think I’m going to keep mixing up the project as I go forward; as it keeps it interesting for me, and keeps me thinking on my toes. My favorite professors at University did the same thing, and I think it helps keep the instructor engaged and not running on autopilot.
Ideas for future classes so far are:
Toy tops, Mallets (though that would probably take a second class for the mortising), stool legs, honey dippers, etc.
If you have an idea for something you’d like me to make you can also post it here!
Also, as a cross-plug. Make sure you check out the woodturner’s guild. I hear great things and intend to go for the first time this month.
-Mike