Back to basics

Looking back at some of my earlier output, I have begun to recognise how far I have come in my turning journey. I still need to finish moving my cabinets through from the old container, and getting all my clutter put away. Once that is done, I will get fully immersed in improving my skill. I still have tons of work to do in the house & garden, but turning is my relaxation.

I went right back to basics yesterday, and turned a piece of hawthorn between centres, to produce a honey dipper. Honey dippers are essential skill-builders, and most beginner turners will churn out piles of them. The idea is to learn/re-learn how to ride the tool bevel, and leave a smooth finish that needs only a light sanding.

I think I have managed that. My only struggle with these is the grooves for picking up the viscous honey. They never seem to be as smooth as they should be. Wrong tool? Perhaps.

This is straight off the lathe with no finish whatsoever.

I’m not sure what my next task will be. Something equally basic though, I need to get my hand/eye back in before tacking anything complicated.

I still class myself very much as a beginner. I average 3-4 hours each week in the shed, and have had no real professional instruction. (Something I hope to address this year) My fumblings are based mainly on self practice and watching loads of videos. Not all youtube videos are equal incidentally. Some show very bad or dangerous methods, and each should be evaluated from the perspective of your own personal safety.

Keep safe, and enjoy what you do.