Sharpening DVD question

[Jim Stoppleworth]

The presenters gave a different way to sharpen some of the same tools.

Does one need to try all four ways or is there one best way to sharpen, say a bowl gouge
for example?

BTW I was impressed with the presenters and the DVD. Great information, I'm just trying to sort some of it out.

Jim

 

[penmaker]

There is more way to sharpen the same tool. There is also more than one way to use that same tool. Over time you will find the way that fits your style of turning. Trying all four methods wouldn't be a bad idea if you want to experiment and take the time. I found that when I was beginning I used one method and learned others as time went by. I still learn and modify my technique today about 10 years later.

 

[underdog]

One of the most frustrating things for a begining turner (myself included) to deal with, is the confusion that is thrown at him when the subject of sharpening comes up.

Inevitably someone will say, "You just have to sharpen it to suit your style." Or, "Whatever works for you".

The ironic thing is that a beginner has no style yet. And in some cases nothing works for them! So what's a turner in their early formative stages to do?

Note the word "early" please. All turners seem to be evolving. I also note that Penmaker used the phrase "over time". This is quite true. It takes time to assimilate, and then use, all the information. My comments are meant to be constructive criticism of the way sharpening gets presented to beginners many times. And a suggestion on how it could be improved.

Well, for starters, don't give up. It will all be more clear as you progress. In the meantime...

The most helpful thing I ever did was to buy, and read, Keith Rowleys book "A Foundation Course in Woodturning." In it he goes over sharpening and tools so that the beginner has an idea of where to start. (And you don't start a beginner by telling them to start halfway through the process. You first have to have a style or success in order to sharpen accordingly.)

Keith first made clear to me the difference between scraping and cutting. This basic fundamental made tool presentation and sharpening angles more clear than anything else anyone ever said. The "why", of scraping vs. cutting, made the "how", of tool angles and tool presentations, make a great deal more sense. I realized that, sure, the tools could be sharpened at different angles and grinds, as long as they stayed in a general range for a given purpose.

I say, make the basics clear, then throw the variations (differences in style) at him.

Ok.. Rant over.

That being said, I am thoroughly enjoying the DVD. It is extremely helpful. And I think they've done a tremendous job of presenting the difficult in a clear, understandable manner. I have not seen the whole thing yet, but it is very good on specifics, if not an overall, general view.

 

[hockenbery]

Each presenter on the video is offering you a repeatable process that produces results. My suggestion would be to start with the one that fits you best.
For example if you turn mostly spindles go with the Lacer section. If you turn mostly bowls go with the Jordan section. Or pick the one that uses equipment most similar to yours. Like Mr. maker said, if you pick one and learn it then yo can try other techniques later on.

Mr dog has a real good point. Most woodturners won't offer their method as the only one since many other techniques produce results. In most cases they will present a proven method that is repeatable and produces good results. Further most presenters are aiming at broad audience: beginner to expert.

Less experienced turners often get overwhelmed with choices and breadth of information presented. Adult learners have a limited capacity to take in new information in a given time span. We need some down time for the mind to assimilate the new stuff into permanent memory and then were ready to learn more.


A major challenge of teaching beginning woodturning is to not teach them too much.

happy turning,
Al

 

[penmaker]

When I was mentoring a new turner I taught him how to sharpen with my Wolverine system. He bought one and was learning how to use it. He then attended a class with Stuart Batty. Stuart did not use jigs. The beginner was now of the opinion he had to get rid of his jig. I tried to let him know that he should take what I taught him and what others will teach him and take a little from others and learn what best fits him and the way he turns and what works for him. When I last told sharpening to a group of newbies at our last hands on meeting I let them know I will show them the way "I" sharpen. I do believe they will find "their" way eventually. In the beginning the important thing keep your tools sharp and sharpen often. No matter what way you sharpen.

If you were in my area Stoppy I would invited you to my shop to share my method. It works for me and fits my style. Good luck and have fun.