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How to determine wedge dimensions (width) for segments

D

Dan Pinvidic

Joined
Mar 11, 2025
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Location
Cave Creek, AZ
I have only turned a few simple segmented bowls. Up to this point I have picked a single width to rip my stock before cutting the wedges, and simply cut each ring 1" dia smaller
than the next ring ending up in a cone shape.
In order to reduce waste, is there a way to determine the best wedge dimension (width before cutting) and ring size to reduce waste.
I would like to turn the vase in the photo.
Is there a calculator for this other than the segment calculators for wedge angle?

Thanbks....
 

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I do it by making a scale (or full size) drawing of the vessel, with each row drawn across it. Then for each row draw a rectangle that includes the inner and outermost point where the row crosses the vessel. Measure that, and you've got the width for that row. Also, there are a ton of tutorials on You tube which will explain this exact process. Also - buy Malcolm Tibbett's book on segmented turning, it will save you hours of time and reduce the learning curve significantly.
 
If you’re kinda hooked on segmenting, get one of the software programs. There are plenty of tutorials, spreadsheets etc, but the software makes it so much easier. I used Segmented Project Planner, it and woodturnerpro are probably the best.

I know SPP allows downloading and using a limited version for free, which may do the vase you want. Sure it takes some time to figure a program out, but then you can get thru the design process quickly, print out a cut sheet, and get started.
 
Doug Freeman said:
If you’re kinda hooked on segmenting, get one of the software programs. There are plenty of tutorials, spreadsheets etc, but the software makes it so much easier. I used Segmented Project Planner, it and woodturnerpro are probably the best.

I know SPP allows downloading and using a limited version for free, which may do the vase you want. Sure it takes some time to figure a program out, but then you can get thru the design process quickly, print out a cut sheet, and get started.
Click to expand...
WoodturnerPro also has (or at least had) a free trial period.
 
Do note that you can't just use the ID and OD of a cross-section to determine segment radial width. Instead you have to consider how many segments will be in the layer and account for the inside corner - fewer segments per layer require more radial width of each segment. This is where the spreadsheet uses a bit of trig to determine both radial width and outer length.

Tim
 
I used spreadsheets and drawings for a while, but as I started doing more segmenting, the Woodturner Pro software helped streamline and make things incredibly easy and quick. I also got the associated products (Segment Pro, Laminate Pro) to help with various designs. Well worth it (in my opinion) if doing this regularly.
 
I stopped being frugal with my segment stock widths because you can easily get trapped in a poor form. Rule one, you can turn wood away, you can’t add wood by turning! Graph paper works well when designing, there is large graph paper available. You can make a 1:1 scale of your piece and get accurate sized rings. Draw your form in a single line, add a second line creating your wall thickness…now get to work having fun!! You can always upgrade to computer programs once the hook is set!!
 
John Redding said:
I used spreadsheets and drawings for a while, but as I started doing more segmenting, the Woodturner Pro software helped streamline and make things incredibly easy and quick. I also got the associated products (Segment Pro, Laminate Pro) to help with various designs. Well worth it (in my opinion) if doing this regularly.
Click to expand...

I also sketch out nearly everything I turn, but one advantage to the segmenting software is the ability to interactively change and refine the profile, view the rendered form, then let it calculate all the angles, sizes, etc. Almost feels like cheating!

I bought the Segment Pro. Some things people have made:

JKJ
 
You guys have convinced me....my time is worth something.
I will go with the software...but I need to watch a few videos to see if I will benefit from Laminate Pro.
 
Dan Pinvidic said:
You guys have convinced me....my time is worth something.
I will go with the software...but I need to watch a few videos to see if I will benefit from Laminate Pro.
Click to expand...
There are several examples of what you can do with laminate pro over on the segmented woodturners site. Allan Miotke has one in his gallery on this site too as an example.......

Laminations Galore

Laminations Galore

The segmented woodturners chapter has a challenge underway to design a piece incorporating...
 
Dan Pinvidic said:
Thanks guys.....I might take a look at the software, but being the frugal person that I am, I might give give
Kirk and Tim's suggestion a try first...I do like spreadsheets 🤣🤣
Click to expand...
Although I spent 30 years in computers and am quite technical, I found the software mentioned difficult to use. If you use it regularly probably not a problem but if you haven't used it in a few months it's like starting all over again. But attached is a spreadsheet produced by one of our club members, Bob Revell. Sadly he is no longer with us, but I know he'd gladly share it here. PM me and I'll be glad to send it to you as this forum doesn't allow attaching a file other than a picture.
 
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