The Ultimate Woodturning Tools Guide: Unlocking the Secrets to Master the Craft

Published On: February 19, 201512 Comments on The Ultimate Woodturning Tools Guide: Unlocking the Secrets to Master the CraftCategories: WoodturningLast Updated: October 24, 202411.9 min read

Woodturning is a wonderful pastime, one of life’s pleasures and not to be missed. The turner magically and effortlessly shapes a rough piece of wood into a useful and attractive object in a matter of seconds. Woodturning is great fun and easier than it looks. It comes close to being the ideal hobby and if you want, it can lead to a money spinning sideline or full time career. Woodturning is one of the most interesting ways of forming natural wood and it is hobby of choice with increasing popularity. Numerous traditional examples of wood turning can be found in most homes and work places. These include, table lamps, table legs, and bowls. Woodturning differs from most other forms of woodworking because the wood is moving while a stationary tool is used to cut and shape it.

Woodturning is an extraordinary craft that demands precision, skill, and the right tools. If you’re looking to delve into the world of woodturning or enhance your existing skills, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unlock the secrets to mastering the craft of woodturning by delving into the ultimate woodturning tools.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodturner, having the right tools is essential. From gouges and chisels to lathe and sharpening systems, we’ll explore the must-have tools that will elevate your woodworking projects to the next level.

But it’s not just about the tools. We’ll also guide you through the best practices, techniques, and safety measures to keep in mind while working with different woodturning tools. With our expert tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create stunning woodturned pieces with confidence and precision.

So, if you’re ready to unlock the secrets and unleash your creativity in woodturning, join us on this journey. Let’s dive into the ultimate woodturning tools guide and discover how to master this extraordinary craft.

complete set of woodturning tools

The range of woodturning tools on the market is enormous. There are literally thousands of types and different variations and if you don’t know what to look for, you can easily spend a lot of money on tools which you don’t need and ending up without the tools you actually need. In this article we will try to explain basic woodturning tools and their uses and suggests what, by our opinion, every beginner in woodturning should have.

Woodturning tools – Scrapers

Scrapers are used for taking very fine cuts in the process of smoothing a surface or taking just a wisp of material away from a tenon or recess to achieve a fit with a matching part. Scrapers are available in many shapes and sizes to accommodate a variety of needs. Inside a bowl, a scraper can be used to finish the side-to-bottom transition area and making the final cuts on the bottom when the geometry is such that a gouge cannot be used. Five typical types of scrapers are square nose, left skew, right skew, round nose and half round, but the most common one is round nose scraper. Also, there are different types of scrapers depending on type of turning there are used for and the most common are 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch and 1 inch like in the set on the picture.

woodturning scrapers

Woodturning tools – Chisels

Chisels usually have double bevels, and the bevel angles are smaller than those normally used on scrapers. Chisels are used for cutting and refining convex and parallel curves in spindle turning such as chair legs, table lamps, candlesticks, peppermills etc. They are great for cutting beads, vee cuts, cleaning up the end grain of say a tool handle, cutting chuck recesses and opening parcels. There are two main types of chisels, a square nose chisel and a skew chisel. Also there are round (oval) skew chisels intended for use on spindlework, their round shape makes these tools highly maneuverable in creating beads, coves and other details. Chisels also come in many sizes from 1/2 inch to 1 1/4 inch thick. For a beginner we recommend standard square nose skew chisel and round skew chisel set like in the picture below.

woodturning chisels

Woodturning tools – Parting tools

Parting tools are in fact narrow chisels. In principle, as their name suggests, they are used for separating the waste material from either end of the finished piece of work. In practice they have a number of other uses. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes like slim parting tools, standard parting tools, diamond section parting tools, fluted parting tools, beading&parting tools and bedan parting tools. Slim parting tool is handy and designed to give the cleanest and finest of cuts with the minimum of waste wood. Standard parting tool is used to part the finished project off from the waste material, the parallel sides make for a rigid tool that handles well. Diamond section parting tool reduces the risk of binding in the cut. It also reduces the amount of heat build up caused by friction, thereby lessening the chance of burning the bottom of the parted project. Fluted parting tool has a milled flute running along the bottom edge, creating two sharp spurs at the cutting face. These sever the fibres to produce a burnished finish. Beading&Parting is a versatile tool used for parting off as well as producing beads. Bedan parting tool is used in the same way as the beading and parting tool the relieved side bevel allows the tool to plunge cut in bowls and boxes with little risk of binding.

woodturning parting tool

Woodturning tools – Gouges

Woodturning gauges come in variety of shapes and sizes depending the use intended for each type. There are three main types of gouges: bowl gouges, spindle gouges and roughing gouges. In every category there is a lot of gouges and we will explain the most common ones. Standard bowl gouge is a must have in the tool kit of every bowl turner. This tool is ideal for making bowls. It can produce either massive profiling cuts or delicate as necessary. Fingernail bowl gouge is used for heavy profiling cuts and fine, delicate shearing cuts. Standard spindle gouge is a detailing tool used on between-centre work, where the grain is running parallel to the bed bars. It is used to create coves, beads and other profiles on goblets, vases and egg cups.Fingernail spindle gouge is ideal for detailing on spindle work. Having the wing tips ground back reduces the danger of them catching when working in confined areas.

Continental style spindle gouges are originating from Europe. These tools have gained a reputation for their superb handling qualities on spindle work. Being a forged construction, they have an even wall thickness, thereby increasing the finesse without compromising the strength. Roughing gouges are recommended for the initial turning of uneven or square stock to round. The shape of the roughing-out gouge enables the tool to cut safely with the wings well back from the workpiece. The ring tool is designed specifically for end grain hollowing. The dual bevels allow for hollowing of internal curved surfaces and flat bottomed vessels. These tools produce an unrivalled surface finish on end grain and they are ideal for goblets and egg cups.

woodturning gouges

Woodturning tools – Carbide tools

Carbide woodturning tools have the same purpose like the regular gouges, scrapers and chisels, but the don’t have the standard blade. Carbide tools have changeable cutters on top which can be changed when they become dull. This removes the need for sharpening tools. Many woodturners say that the quality of them can’t compare with standard woodturning tools but we will not take sides in this debate. We think those tools are very precise for working on small pieces and with them there is definitely no sharpening anymore.

woodturning carbide tools

Lathe

There is no woodturning without a lathe.  There are many kinds of lathes on the market and it is difficult to decide what lathe to buy. First of all, we advise you to think ahead, maybe you want to start with a simple drawer knob and you need a mini lathe for that, but what if you want to make a large bowl in a month or two? It is always better to buy a medium sized lathe like in the picture below which will be suitable for all your projects in the future. If you can’t afford a lathe then you can check out our article about DIY mini lathe.

woodturning lathe

Best woodturning set for beginners

By our opinion there are some basic woodturning tools which every woodturner should have, except of a lathe. Those essential tools are 3/4″ roughing gouge, 3/8″ spindle gouge, 3/8″ beading tool, 1/8″ parting tool, 3/8″ bowl gouge, 1″ square end scraper and 1″ round end scraper. The opinions on what are basic tools vary but we think that those tools will be adequate for finishing every simple woodturning project. If you buy every piece individually you will most likely pay almost 50% more than when buying already complete kit. If you want a high quality woodturning tools set which will last for a long time then we recommend Hurricane set, PSI set, Savannah set, Crown set or Robert Sorby set.

woodturning crown tool set

Maintenance and care of woodturning tools

Proper maintenance and care of your woodturning tools is essential for ensuring their longevity and performance. Well-maintained tools not only work more effectively but also help to prevent accidents and injuries. In this section, we’ll explore the best practices for maintaining and caring for your woodturning tools.

One of the most important aspects of tool maintenance is sharpening. Keeping your chisels, gouges, and other tools sharp is crucial for achieving clean, precise cuts and minimizing the risk of tool failure. Invest in a quality sharpening system, such as a bench grinder or a wet grinder, and learn how to properly sharpen and hone your tools.

In addition to sharpening, it’s important to regularly clean and inspect your tools. Remove any built-up dirt, debris, or rust, and check for any signs of wear or damage. This can help you identify issues early and take the necessary steps to address them before they become more serious problems.

Another important aspect of tool maintenance is proper storage. Store your tools in a dry, well-ventilated area, and consider using tool rolls or cabinets to keep them organized and protected. Avoid storing your tools in damp or humid environments, as this can lead to rust and other forms of deterioration.

Finally, consider investing in specialized tool maintenance products, such as lubricants, rust preventatives, and sharpening stones. These products can help to extend the life of your tools and keep them in top working condition. By taking the time to properly maintain and care for your woodturning tools, you’ll be able to enjoy their performance and longevity for years to come.

Resources and communities for woodturners

Woodturning is a rich and diverse craft, with a vibrant community of enthusiasts and experts who are always eager to share their knowledge and experiences. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodturner, there are numerous resources and communities available to help you grow and develop your skills.

One of the best ways to connect with other woodturners and learn from their expertise is to join a local woodturning club or guild. These organizations often host regular meetings, workshops, and demonstrations, where you can learn from experienced turners, try out new tools and techniques, and network with like-minded individuals.

In addition to local clubs and guilds, there are also numerous online resources and communities for woodturners. From forums and social media groups to instructional videos and tutorials, the internet is a treasure trove of information and inspiration for woodturners of all skill levels. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and dedicated woodturning forums can be great places to connect with other enthusiasts, ask questions, and discover new ideas and techniques.

Another valuable resource for woodturners is woodturning magazines and publications. These publications often feature detailed articles on tools, techniques, and projects, as well as profiles of renowned woodturners and their work. Subscribing to a woodturning magazine can be a great way to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the craft.

Finally, consider attending woodturning workshops, demonstrations, or even larger events, such as woodturning symposiums or conferences. These events provide an opportunity to learn from master woodturners, try out new tools and equipment, and immerse yourself in the vibrant woodturning community. By engaging with these resources and communities, you’ll be able to continuously grow and refine your woodturning skills, and find inspiration for your next project.

Conclusion: Mastering the craft of woodturning

Woodturning is a captivating and rewarding craft that requires a combination of skill, technique, and the right tools. Throughout this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the essential woodturning tools, the different types of tools and their applications, the importance of choosing the right wood, and the fundamental and advanced techniques that can help you master the craft.

We’ve also discussed the importance of safety precautions and best practices, as well as the proper maintenance and care of your woodturning tools. Finally, we’ve highlighted the wealth of resources and communities available to woodturners, providing you with the tools and support you need to continue your journey and unlock your full creative potential.

Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced woodturner looking to expand your skills, this guide has provided you with the knowledge and inspiration to take your woodturning to new heights. By embracing the right tools, techniques, and safety practices, you’ll be able to create stunning, functional, and truly unique woodturned pieces that will impress and delight.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of woodturning, explore the endless possibilities, and unleash your creativity. With dedication, practice, and the right tools, you can master the craft of woodturning and create pieces that will be cherished for years to come.

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Leave A Comment

  1. marcus October 27, 2021 at 7:53 pm

    dat is een prachtig mooi zetje bijttels , daar loopt het water je om de mond

  2. w.p.s.wasantha kumara December 29, 2017 at 2:58 am

    I wont woodturning tools

  3. Omar Moktar September 27, 2017 at 4:15 am

    Hello I’m an artist from libya North Africa how i can get this sclupture tools thanks.

  4. Edward McAuley May 7, 2017 at 10:14 pm

    Dear. I want to let you know that I am Deaf can’t phone my mobile etc but I used email or mobile text only if u happy text ok. My mobile phone number is 07783904994 .. can u send my book of WoodTurning etc but I am start interesting this year.. I won’t pay by phone line only cheque ok ??? I hope u understand what I mean… from Edward

  5. Handyman Tips January 18, 2017 at 9:53 am

    Hi,

    we have an article about wood carving tool sets! Just search our page or browse the woodworking category and you can’t miss it ;-)

  6. K.S.Sibichan January 14, 2017 at 9:14 pm

    Like to buy a set ,please help me ,I like woodcarving

  7. Andy September 29, 2015 at 8:25 pm

    Really informative and constructive advice.
    I started with a Record Coronet and 2 basic tools for a home project 6 months ago. I now have 15 tools and a top end Jet lathe arriving next week. Be warned, turning is expensive and highly addictive!
    Good luck.

  8. Bill Van Wie July 22, 2015 at 4:21 pm

    Thanks for the primer. I think that it is worth mentioning that whereas some tools may be interchangeable depending on the task at hand, some are not. For example, making the mistake of using a spindle roughing gouge for bowl turning could result in serious injury!

  9. Handyman Tips April 16, 2015 at 8:20 am

    Thanks for the translation, PG Wisn ;-)

    The distance is not the problem, they are shipped worldwide!
    The good 8-piece PSI set costs costs 76,53$ or 72,34€! You can order it from here http://geni.us/1CYY

  10. PG Wisn April 15, 2015 at 7:25 pm

    The message is in Portuguese:

    “Hello .
    I would love to have a set of these chisel shame it’s so far and how much is a set of 8?
    Hugs .”

  11. Handyman Tips March 9, 2015 at 9:43 am

    Hi Luiz,

    thank you for your comment but unfortunately we can’t get an accurate translation and therefore we can not answer to your question! We are sorry once again!
    The Handyman tips team!

  12. Luiz March 8, 2015 at 8:03 pm

    Olá.
    Gostaria muito de ter um jogo destes formão pena que é tão longe e quanto custa o jogo de 8.
    Abraço.