I've got my basic set of turning tools pretty well built out and I'm currently working with a Sorby 3/4" oval backed skew that I'm somewhat competent with. Paring, planing, tapers, beads, but I'm starting to research if I wouldn't be better served with a different skew size specifically for smaller beads on spindle work. As in 1/8 beads on balusters. The 3/4 can feel a little unwieldy especially when smaller features are tucked right in close to the pommels. The only catches I'm getting somewhat regularly now are when I try to round a bead in one pass with the short point. I typically shave it down with long point in a couple of passes now.
I've been kind of eyeing a 1/2" flat skew with a radiused edge and a 3/8 Henry Thompson bedan but not sure how much of a difference either of those would actually be.
This could be a case of "get good" in which case I'd appreciate that advice too.
Rule 1 compliant (and yes, humble brag) we're working on a project at school that requires some replacement exterior balusters. Our instructor had some salvaged cypress from the 1988 Cabildo fire in New Orleans that he felt comfortable volunteering for class work for some reason. So now, although not perfect, I can say I've worked wood that was part of the building frame where the Louisiana Purchase went into effect in 1803. The original is white pine on the far right. These will be installed in a balustrade about 30' in the air with a healthy coat of paint applied first. This is actually my first time sharing class work on Texags so be gentle. lol.
I've been kind of eyeing a 1/2" flat skew with a radiused edge and a 3/8 Henry Thompson bedan but not sure how much of a difference either of those would actually be.
This could be a case of "get good" in which case I'd appreciate that advice too.
Rule 1 compliant (and yes, humble brag) we're working on a project at school that requires some replacement exterior balusters. Our instructor had some salvaged cypress from the 1988 Cabildo fire in New Orleans that he felt comfortable volunteering for class work for some reason. So now, although not perfect, I can say I've worked wood that was part of the building frame where the Louisiana Purchase went into effect in 1803. The original is white pine on the far right. These will be installed in a balustrade about 30' in the air with a healthy coat of paint applied first. This is actually my first time sharing class work on Texags so be gentle. lol.
