Always learn from another turner

[Mike Heinen]

The bowl gouge to me seemed like others could use the Bowl gouge with some black magic! Yesterday I found a gentleman (in his early 90) in town that turns. I went to pick his brain. I brought my (dull) bowl gouge and asked for some guidance with the gouge. He said he does everything with carbides but would show me. Oh, my sweet Jesus!!!! The door opened and heavenly light came in! I was actually doing it! The mystery was explained! I spent maybe 2 hours this morning practicing (didn't seem like it was that long) Could the gouge be sharpened? Oh yea. Did I do about 100 scary catches? heck yea. But I was doing it. I have a 9x4 bowl blank, I going to cut it down to platter size! I do have a problem with the center cutting. Can't seem to get close with the cutting? John Jordan told me to find someone to show you. He was so right. Can't wait to practice more and get better. And find some way to sharpen. Thought I would share.

 

[Dwayne Watt]

Get thee to a club, ASAP, and get some lessons. If you are getting 100 scary catches in a couple hours, then there is still something very wrong with your technique. In my club's learn to turn classes we seldom see more than a handful of catches amongst 6-8 people over the course of 2 days. There are at least 3 clubs in the Kansas City area (Independence is probably closest to you).

 

[hughie]

That's true, but you must pick your mentor with wisdom, not everyone who owns a gouge can turn.
But by the look of it you have done well, keep him handy because over time you can glean a lifetime of learning and experience.

 

[Mike Heinen]

As much as I'd like to join club I'm on disability and could afford the dues. And nearest club is KC but I live about mile maybe more. I had what got (really not much) before I was retired.. im trying my best to struggle through this.. And there isn't any turners my way(except the 90yr old above). I've put out ads on FB market just one reply ( see above) and only uses carbide. What he showed me was everything he could do.. im kinda on my own out in the sticks.What I'm saying is not for sympathy..It's all I have.

 

[Thomas Wilson]

While I agree with the others that in person learning is the best, I started out on YouTube and there are a few that teach really good techniques and safety. However, you have to be careful as there are some pretty poor and unsafe turners on YouTube as well.

My favorite is Brian Havens. He has several videos that go through how to properly use each type of tool and shows why and how catches occur.
Other good YouTubers that I personally like include Tomaslav Tomasic, Alan Lacer, and the craft supplies instructional videos. There are many more but I think each of these turners are good teachers and safety.

Good luck and stay safe.

Tom

 

[Steve Tiedman]

Get ahold of those local clubs and see if any of them have a "scholarship" type slush fund set aside to help people be part of the club even if they have financial hardship. I belong to a local photography club. We charge $5 per meeting, or a $25 annual (9 months of meetings). But we also proclaim that nobody will ever be turned away because they can't afford to attend. Several of us fluff up our annual membership to help cover costs for those who cannot afford dues.

Frankly, if a local turning club is well known, well established, and well funded, they should do this in an effort to draw in as many people as they can, especially the younger generations and groups who could not otherwise be part of such a club, for financial or other societal reasons. All should be welcome. It's good karma...

 

[Mike Heinen]

Ive contacted the Kc club once and the president once neither replied.

 

[Steve Tiedman]

Ive contacted the Kc club once and the president once neither replied.

Well, that's a shame on them.

 

[hughie]

As much as I'd like to join club I'm on disability and could afford the dues. And nearest club is KC but I live about mile maybe more. I had what got (really not much) before I was retired.. im trying my best to struggle through this.. And there isn't any turners my way(except the 90yr old above). I've put out ads on FB market just one reply ( see above) and only uses carbide. What he showed me was everything he could do.. im kinda on my own out in the sticks.What I'm saying is not for sympathy..It's all I have.

OK, there is youtube but stick to well known names, many run their own channels, Stuart Batty, Jimmy Clews,Richard Raffin etc

 

[Brian Gustin]

As much as I'd like to join club I'm on disability and could afford the dues. And nearest club is KC but I live about mile maybe more. I had what got (really not much) before I was retired.. im trying my best to struggle through this.. And there isn't any turners my way(except the 90yr old above). I've put out ads on FB market just one reply ( see above) and only uses carbide. What he showed me was everything he could do.. im kinda on my own out in the sticks.What I'm saying is not for sympathy..It's all I have.

Wow. I could have written that myself... Must be my twin! - But yeah in cases like yours, Youtube is about the best answer. I can personally recommend : Turnawoodbowl.com (Kent Weakley) , RIchard Raffan, Tomislav Tomasic, Wyoming Woodturner, Mike Peace, and Dean's Woodworking to name the ones I learned from (and still do) If you want links to their channels on Youtube, drop me a note and I'll PM them to you. Kent Weakley would likely be the place to get started, he has a lot of info on sharpening, and techniques (No need to buy any of his courses, which he seems to regularly plug.)

 

[Bob Brown]

As much as I'd like to join club I'm on disability and could afford the dues. And nearest club is KC but I live about mile maybe more. I had what got (really not much) before I was retired.. im trying my best to struggle through this.. And there isn't any turners my way(except the 90yr old above). I've put out ads on FB market just one reply ( see above) and only uses carbide. What he showed me was everything he could do.. im kinda on my own out in the sticks.What I'm saying is not for sympathy..It's all I have.

Call the club and explain your situation. Ask if some retired person could help you get the basics.

 

[Bill Blasic]

Wow I looked up the Kansas City Woodturners and they want a $150 a year to join. And the fact that they didn't reply is not good. With that $150 he could buy a sharpening system. What do you folks say, let's help this guy. I'll get in touch and see what he has and I'll start if off by donating $25. If you want to help paypal me a donation to piwtrnr@verizon.net or send a donation to Bill Blasic 11291 Lake Pleasant Rd Union City, PA 16438. I've sent him a direct message to see exactly what he has and how we can help.

 

[Kent Reisdorph]

Simple answer: www.turnawoodbowl.com. You can spend days there learning the basics on bowl gouges.

 

[Tyler Lyght]

Wow I looked up the Kansas City Woodturners and they want a $150 a year to join. And the fact that they didn't reply is not good. With that $150 he could buy a sharpening system. What do you folks say, let's help this guy. I'll get in touch and see what he has and I'll start if off by donating $25. If you want to help paypal me a donation to piwtrnr@verizon.net or send a donation to Bill Blasic 11291 Lake Pleasant Rd Union City, PA 16438. I've sent him a direct message to see exactly what he has and how we can help.

Thanks for spearheading this Bill. Threw in my own $25. Been there myself. Finally in a place where I can comfortably help other folk out, if only a little.

 

[Dave Landers]

I looked up the Kansas City Woodturners and they want a $150 a year to join

yikes

 

[Dwayne Watt]

Wow I looked up the Kansas City Woodturners and they want a $150 a year to join. And the fact that they didn't reply is not good. With that $150 he could buy a sharpening system. What do you folks say, let's help this guy. I'll get in touch and see what he has and I'll start if off by donating $25. If you want to help paypal me a donation to piwtrnr@verizon.net or send a donation to Bill Blasic 11291 Lake Pleasant Rd Union City, PA 16438. I've sent him a direct message to see exactly what he has and how we can help.

The KC Woodturners lease space for a full time turning shop, so the dues are probably in line with the costs.

 

[Mark Hepburn]

Wow I looked up the Kansas City Woodturners and they want a $150 a year to join. And the fact that they didn't reply is not good. With that $150 he could buy a sharpening system. What do you folks say, let's help this guy. I'll get in touch and see what he has and I'll start if off by donating $25. If you want to help paypal me a donation to piwtrnr@verizon.net or send a donation to Bill Blasic 11291 Lake Pleasant Rd Union City, PA 16438. I've sent him a direct message to see exactly what he has and how we can help.

I'm in too Bill. I'll do $50; sorry it can't be more. Just sent via PayPal.

 

[Mark Hepburn]

Simple answer: www.turnawoodbowl.com. You can spend days there learning the basics on bowl gouges.

First time I've even heard of this site but it's loaded with good info. Thanks Kent.

 

[Mike Heinen]

While I agree with the others that in person learning is the best, I started out on YouTube and there are a few that teach really good techniques and safety. However, you have to be careful as there are some pretty poor and unsafe turners on YouTube as well.

My favorite is Brian Havens. He has several videos that go through how to properly use each type of tool and shows why and how catches occur.
Other good YouTubers that I personally like include Tomaslav Tomasic, Alan Lacer, and the craft supplies instructional videos. There are many more but I think each of these turners are good teachers and safety.

Good luck and stay safe.

Tom

I've looked them up and will watch them! Thanks

 

[Mike Heinen]

OK, there is youtube but stick to well known names, many run their own channels, Stuart Batty, Jimmy Clews,Richard Raffin etc

Thanks going to be watching Youtube with your suggestions. Thanks

 

[Mike Heinen]

whoa, whoa, whoa... Hold off here.. I did not post this for sympany. I was telling about using a bowl gouge... I don't want anybody to spend any money on me please. I have all I need my Rikon Lathe, nova chuck, Benjamin's Best tools. Please I wont take any charilty. I'm sure you guys need stuff more then me.Please spend your money on yourself..

 

[Tyler Lyght]

whoa, whoa, whoa... Hold off here.. I did not post this for sympany. I was telling about using a bowl gouge... I don't want anybody to spend any money on me please. I have all I need my Rikon Lathe, nova chuck, Benjamin's Best tools. Please I wont take any charilty. I'm sure you guys need stuff more then me.Please spend your money on yourself..

To be fair, I am =P In my mind there's no pure altruism. Same reason I give blood. Not because I may benefit from donated blood in the future, but because it makes me feel good. Like a contributing member of a community. Right now I'm getting a lot out of this community without being able to put much back in. At the same time, I don't want to impose my help on anyone. I don't really consider it charity either - that can have a pretty negative connotation. Would it help to think of it as a scholarship membership if it goes toward that?

 

[Mark Hepburn]

whoa, whoa, whoa... Hold off here.. I did not post this for sympany. I was telling about using a bowl gouge... I don't want anybody to spend any money on me please. I have all I need my Rikon Lathe, nova chuck, Benjamin's Best tools. Please I wont take any charilty. I'm sure you guys need stuff more then me.Please spend your money on yourself..

Mike, it's a pleasure to help. I can recall days when there was nothing "extra" in my budget. Please accept it in the spirit in which it is given. It's a blessing to us also to be able and willing to do a good turn for someone (pardon the pun).

Mark

 

[Larry Copas]

Mike, you might want to check out the woodworking club in St. Joseph. Although it is a woodworking club they do have woodturners that attend meetings. Easier to get to than KC and dues probably cheaper.
St. Joseph Woodworkers Guild

 

[Bill Blasic]

whoa, whoa, whoa... Hold off here.. I did not post this for sympany. I was telling about using a bowl gouge... I don't want anybody to spend any money on me please. I have all I need my Rikon Lathe, nova chuck, Benjamin's Best tools. Please I wont take any charilty. I'm sure you guys need stuff more then me.Please spend your money on yourself..

Mike, this is not charity. This is woodturners doing what they do best. Anyone of us if they were near would help you and teach you. Please answer the message I sent or call me at 814-796-4609.

 

[Mark Hepburn]

Mike, this is not charity. This is woodturners doing what they do best. Anyone of us if they were near would help you and teach you. Please answer the message I sent or call me at 814-796-4609.

Well said Bill!

 

[Alan Weinberg]

$25
Done.

 

[Hugh]

A few good books out there:
Richard Raffan on Woodturning.
Richard Raffan - The Art of the Bowl.
David Ellsworth - Woodturning.
Check at the local library.

 

[Steve Tiedman]

Looks like KC may be getting a new member! Mike, milk that year of membership for all it's worth- meetings shop time, special events, etc.

I don't know any of these fellas who've ponied-up some bucks, but I'd be willing to bet if any of them lived near you, they'd give you the turning smocks off their backs!

Wishing you well as you practice and master those new skills.

 

[Mike Heinen]

As much as I am grateful. I have to throw a wrench in the cog. I cannot drive to KC. I can drive around town but not far.. My wife would have to drive me and she's not a fan of driving in town.. I am so flattered and humbled by your generosity and care. As I say things are hard to get things around here. With that I have to refuse your generous gift. Sorry..

 

[Dwayne Watt]

Thinking more about your 100 catches statement...even with many videos to watch the key thing(s) with a gouge are anchor (true with all tools), ride the bevel, move the handle to start the cut. With a gouge, the flute should start completely closed. That means pointing either at 9:00 or 3:00 depending on direction of travel. Once you get cut started that supports the tool, open the flute to no more than 45 degrees. Going over 45 degrees, you will likely get a catch. In other words, do not point the flute up. If none of these work for you, get some carbide tools. Cutters have to be replaced but the scraper forms are easy to use (EasyWood style tools).

 

[Mike Heinen]

I have been in contact withBill Blasic. We or i have came up with compromise. He asked about a sharpen system. Which do not have. I also from the bottom of my heart so grateful to be in a group of people as her. I am touch to the point of tears. I hope many good blessng come you all. I will always remember you all and will strive to learn and grow in my skill and hope hope someday to pay this generosity on to others. Thank you all!

 

[Bill Blasic]

I added what was needed and a Oneway Wolverine Grinding jig and a Oneway Wolverine Vari-Grind is on the way to Mike. Thank you Tyler, Michael, Mark, Alan, and David for your generosity.

 

[Mike Heinen]

When my wife, My daughter and I moved to the farthest NW tip of Missouri from Illinois near St louis 6 yrs ago. We moved so the wife could care for my father-in-law. I left my whole family and friends back home. I felt like I was alone here with no family here. I realized now that I have a very larger family, and friends win the turning world! Words will never be enough for your generosity shown! I am going to leave my contact info below. If there is any person needing help, please let me know I will try my darndest to help to pay forward. From the deepest of my heart, I am so grateful for all the love and care you all have shown! From me to you all. Thank you.
Any time you all need anything please count me in!

Mike Heinen
24907 Ridge Ave
Gallatin, Mo 64640
mhein68@live.com
618-340-2682

 

[Mark Hepburn]

It’s our privilege to be able to serve. Thank you Mike.

 

[Tyler Lyght]

I'm a selfish bastard. It's my pleasure. Well, ours if Mark is any indication.

 

[robo hippy]

I grew up in St. Joe, "Where the Pony Express began, and Jesse James ended"..... Moved to Oregon, the state, not Oregon MO.... If we lived closer, I would invite you over for a play date. I have extra everything.... I do have a You Tube channel also, mostly about turning bowls. I do like Mike Waldt who is from Whales. Lots of good projects. Carl Jacobson is good also.

robo hippy