If you are a woodturning enthusiast, chances are you have come across a skew chisel. The skew chisel is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of cuts on a wood lathe. However, many woodturners find it intimidating to use and shy away from using it. In this article, we will walk you through the basics of using a skew chisel on a wood lathe, so you can feel confident in adding this tool to your arsenal.
First, let’s talk about what a skew chisel is. A skew chisel is a woodworking tool with a flat, slightly beveled blade that is ground to a point. It has two bevels, one on the top and one on the bottom, which allows for a wide range of cuts. The skew chisel is primarily used for creating smooth and precise finishing cuts, but it can also be used for roughing and shaping.
When using a skew chisel, it is important to hold the tool correctly. Hold the tool with a firm grip, ensuring that the cutting edge is level with the centerline of the lathe. It is recommended to hold the skew chisel at a slight angle, with the handle slightly lower than the cutting edge. This will allow for better control and help prevent catches and accidents.
Now, let’s talk about the different cuts you can make with a skew chisel. The most common cut is the “shear cut”, which is performed by presenting the skew chisel to the wood at a 45-degree angle and gently pushing it across the surface. This cut creates a smooth finish and is ideal for shaping and smoothing cylindrical objects, such as bowls and spindles.
Why Use a Skew Chisel for Woodturning?
A skew chisel is an essential tool in woodturning. It is a versatile chisel with a slightly beveled edge that is used for a variety of cuts on the lathe. Here are some reasons why using a skew chisel can greatly benefit your woodturning projects:
1. Versatility
The skew chisel is a highly versatile tool that can perform multiple functions. It can be used for both roughing out and finishing cuts, making it a go-to tool for many woodturners. With proper technique, it can be used to create a wide range of shapes and cuts, including beads, coves, and V-grooves.
2. Smooth Surface Finish
The skew chisel is known for its ability to produce a smooth surface finish on wood. Its beveled edge cuts cleanly through the fibers, leaving a polished surface that requires minimal sanding. This makes the skew chisel a time-saving tool and helps achieve a professional-looking finish on your turned projects.
Tip: To achieve an even smoother finish, sharpen your skew chisel regularly and hone the cutting edge to a razor-sharp edge.
3. Precision and Control
The design of the skew chisel allows for precise and controlled cuts. Its narrow profile and angled cutting edge make it easy to maneuver around curves and tight spaces. By adjusting the angle of the chisel, you can control the depth and direction of the cut, giving you more control over the shaping process.
Tip: Hold the skew chisel firmly but lightly, allowing it to glide smoothly over the wood. Practice your technique on scrap pieces before working on your actual project to improve precision.
In conclusion, a skew chisel is a valuable tool for any woodturner. Its versatility, ability to produce smooth finishes, and precision make it an essential tool for shaping and refining wood on the lathe. With practice and proper technique, the skew chisel can help you create beautifully turned projects with ease.
Choosing the Right Skew Chisel
When it comes to using a skew chisel on a wood lathe, choosing the right chisel is crucial. The angle, size, and shape of the chisel can greatly affect the quality of your woodturning projects. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a skew chisel:
1. Angle
The angle of the cutting edge on the skew chisel is an important consideration. Most traditional skew chisels have a grind angle of around 20 degrees. However, there are also skew chisels with varying grind angles, such as 30 degrees or even higher. Choosing the right angle depends on the type of wood you are working with and the desired finish. Experimenting with different angles will help you find the right one for your specific needs.
2. Size
The size of the skew chisel refers to both the length and width of the cutting edge. Skew chisels come in various sizes, ranging from small to large. The size you choose depends on the scale of your woodturning projects and your personal preference. Smaller skew chisels are generally more maneuverable and suitable for delicate work, while larger ones provide more stability and control for larger projects.
3. Shape
Skew chisels come in different shapes, such as rectangular, oval, or rounded. The shape of the chisel affects how it interacts with the wood and the type of cuts it can make. Rectangular skew chisels are versatile and can be used for a wide range of cuts, while oval or rounded skew chisels are better suited for specific applications, such as creating smooth curves or beads. Consider the type of cuts you commonly make and choose a shape that aligns with your woodworking style.
Apart from these factors, it’s also important to consider the quality and durability of the skew chisel. Look for chisels made from high-quality tool steel with good hardness and edge retention. It’s always worth investing in a good-quality skew chisel, as it will provide better performance and last longer.
| Factor | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Angle | Choose an angle based on the type of wood and desired finish. |
| Size | Select a size that suits the scale of your projects and personal preference. |
| Shape | Consider the type of cuts you make and choose a shape accordingly. |
| Quality | Invest in a high-quality skew chisel for better performance and durability. |
Preparing the Wood and Lathe
Before you start using a skew chisel on a wood lathe, it’s important to properly prepare both the wood and the lathe. This will ensure that you have a smooth and safe turning experience.
Preparing the Wood
First, select a suitable piece of wood for your project. It should be free from defects such as cracks, knots, or splits. Additionally, ensure that the wood is properly dried and stable to avoid any warping or cracking during the turning process.
Next, mount the wood blank securely on your lathe. Make sure that it is centered and tightly held in place using a chuck or a faceplate. This will prevent any wobbling or shifting of the wood while you work.
Preparing the Lathe
Before turning on the lathe, check that all the components are in good working condition. Inspect the tool rest, banjo, tailstock, and spindle to ensure they are properly aligned and securely fastened.
Additionally, make sure that the lathe is set to the appropriate speed for your project. Higher speeds are generally used for smaller and more delicate pieces, while lower speeds are suitable for larger and heavier work. Consult the lathe’s manual for the recommended speed settings.
It’s also a good idea to wear appropriate safety gear such as safety glasses and a face shield while operating the lathe. This will protect you from any flying wood chips or debris.
By properly preparing the wood and lathe, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable turning experience with your skew chisel.
Proper Grip and Stance
When using a skew chisel on a wood lathe, it is important to have the proper grip and stance in order to maintain control and achieve clean cuts. Here are some tips to help you establish a proper grip and stance:
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Grip
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Stance
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By following these guidelines for grip and stance, you can ensure safer and more effective use of a skew chisel on a wood lathe. Practice these techniques regularly to improve your skills and achieve better results in your woodturning projects.
Basic Skew Chisel Techniques
The skew chisel is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of woodturning tasks. Its wide, flat blade with a beveled edge allows for clean, precise cuts. However, it also requires proper technique and control to minimize the risk of catching or splintering the wood.
Proper Grip
Before starting, it is important to have a secure grip on the skew chisel. Hold the tool with your dominant hand with your thumb resting on top of the handle. Wrap your fingers around the handle, ensuring a firm and comfortable grip.
Positioning the Tool
Position the tool rest so that it is slightly below the center of the spinning wood blank. This will help provide stability and control. Hold the skew chisel with its beveled edge facing towards the wood, aligning it parallel to the direction of the lathe bed.
Cutting Techniques
There are several basic cutting techniques that can be used with the skew chisel:
- Planing Cut: This involves skewing the chisel slightly and using the beveled edge to smoothly plane the wood. Start at the edge of the wood and gradually push the chisel along the surface, maintaining a consistent angle and pressure.
- Shearing Cut: With this technique, the skew chisel is tilted at a steeper angle and the beveled edge is used to shear off thin shavings of wood. The chisel is held at a diagonal angle and pushed across the wood, creating a clean and smooth surface.
- V-Cut: This technique is used to create V-shaped grooves or decorative cuts in the wood. Angle the skew chisel so that the beveled edge enters the wood at an angle, and then push it forward to create the desired cut.
Remember to always work with the grain of the wood and avoid applying excessive pressure, as this can cause the wood to splinter or catch. Practice these techniques on scrap wood before moving on to more intricate projects to improve your skill and control with the skew chisel.
Advanced Skew Chisel Techniques
The skew chisel is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of woodturning tasks. While many beginners may feel intimidated by its sharp edge and potential for catching, with practice and the right techniques, the skew chisel can become a go-to tool for woodturning projects. Here are a few advanced techniques to help you get the most out of your skew chisel:
1. Rolling Cut
One of the key techniques with a skew chisel is the rolling cut. This involves simultaneously rotating the chisel and sliding it along the tool rest to create a slicing cut. This technique is particularly useful for finishing cuts and achieving smooth surfaces. To perform a rolling cut, position the chisel at a slight angle to the wood and slowly rotate it while sliding it across the tool rest. Practice this motion with light cuts until you feel comfortable and can achieve a clean finish.
2. Shear Cut
The shear cut is another technique that can be used with a skew chisel to create clean and smooth cuts. This technique involves using the skew chisel at a steep angle to the wood, with the bevel in contact with the surface. By presenting the chisel at a shear angle, instead of the traditional scraping angle, you can achieve cleaner cuts and reduce the risk of catches. To perform a shear cut, tilt the skew chisel at a steep angle and slowly push it into the wood, allowing the bevel to rub against the surface and create a slicing action. This technique requires a steady hand and practice to master.
3. Bead and Cove Shapes
The skew chisel can also be used to create decorative bead and cove shapes on woodturning projects. To create a bead shape, position the skew chisel at a slight angle to the wood and use a rolling cut motion along the desired area. This will remove the wood and create a rounded bead shape. To create a cove shape, position the skew chisel at a steep angle and use a shear cut motion along the desired area. This will hollow out the wood and create a concave shape. Practice these techniques on scrap wood before attempting them on your actual project.
Remember, mastering the skew chisel takes practice and patience. Start with simple cuts and gradually work your way up to more complex techniques. With time, you’ll be able to confidently use the skew chisel to create beautiful and intricate details on your woodturning projects.
