Bowl Turning Tools

[bowlbound]

Just joined the forum the other day and have already learned alot about turning.
I am new to turning and have only turned aromatic cedar on a 6" lathe.
I have just finished my lathe room, complete with an exaust blower w/dust collector. Got tired of the dust and caught the cedar cough.
I have also ordered a Grizzly Model G0584 14 1/2" x 43", 3/4 horsepower lathe (4-6 weeks backorder)
Am now in the process of cutting the trees (elm,persimmon,black walnut,sycamore, cedar & poplar).
My question is what tools do I need to get started in bowl turning?
Larry

 

[John F Carr]

1/2" or 3/8" bowl gouge, parting tool, and radius nose scraper would be my basics for bowl turning... and of course a way to sharpen them. I use the Wolverine system for that.
Oh, and Bill Grumbine's Bowl Turning video

 

[Norm Smith]

Hi Larry,
John`s advice is right on. I suggest that you also join a Turning Club. The benifits are great.
Have fun and good luck.
Norm

 

[bowlbound]

bowlbound

Thanks for the help!
Can't wait until the lathe comes in to get started again.
Could someone advise me on the best calipers to purchase?

 

[dkulze]

Any calipers that work are fine, plastic or metal making no nevermind. Double ended and very large size, that way you can check thickness on small and large bowls and vases. The ones that have a long end with a straight and curved arm are handy. Second thing to do is hit the local hardware store for the little plastic tips to put on the end of rods as cushions. Get 4 that will fit on the ends of the caliper arms. This prevents accidental dents or scrapes. You have to do all 4 arms, though, to keep consistant with the thickness gauging.

dietrich