Multi-Axis Woodturning: Creating a Vessel
Michael Roper
Class Preview
0:59
- In-depth Instruction; over 105 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Introduction & Getting Started
13:49
Meet your instructor, Michael Roper, and get started making your own vessel with an offset opening. First, Michael will show you how to measure for center and how to create an offset, which you'll use when hollowing out your vessel. Then he'll demonstrate how to round the blank and make the first shaping cuts, offering tips about tools and lathe speeds along the way.
Mounting the Second Axis
9:20
Learn how to mount your vessel on its offset axis and create an off-axis tenon, which will be used later to stabilize your vessel as you hollow it out. Gain confidence as you master the tricky air cut, and learn how to measure and dovetail the tenon to snugly fit into a four-jaw chuck. Finally, Michael shares safety tips and advice for securely mounting your vessel into the chuck.
Beginning to Hollow
16:56
Create a hollowing channel using a drill bit, then start on the dramatic architectural feature of the vessel neck. Learn how to properly prepare your tools and gently make cuts so you take just a little wood off at a time. Finally, Michael introduces you to a tool that will cut down on your sanding time by removing large tool marks immediately.
Hollowing Techniques
13:05
Discover which tools give you the best results for hollowing and then go inside the vessel as you hollow out the bulk. Then, Michael will show you how to use a bent cutter to create your vessel walls and offer you invaluable tips for approaching the wall with confidence. Learn a simple trick for making a homemade caliper to help you measure your wall thickness so that you never break through.
Creating a Reverse Jam Chuck
17:03
Now that the top of your vessel has been created, it's time to focus on the bottom. And for that, you'll need to make a reverse jam chuck, which you can customize to accommodate the neck of your piece. Learn how to measure and mark your blank for a precise fit. Then, Michael shows you time-saving techniques for hollowing out the top of your chuck. Finally, see how to make your final chuck cuts and attach your vessel for a snug fit.
Finishing Your Vessel
17:28
Make the final cuts on your vessel as you shape the bottom, learning to taper your piece to just a 1-inch circumference. Blend your cuts and sand the piece while it's still on the lathe. Learn Michael's technique for ensuring the vessel sits flat before you make the final cut of this class, this one by hand, as you remove the nub with a chisel.
Round Bottom Variation
16:31
Stretch your multi-axis skills and artistic vision even further as you discover how a few simple technique adjustments will allow you to create a smaller vessel with a rounded bottom. You'll get advice on how to measure, shape and cut your vessel and how to alter your methods on this shorter piece. Once your shaping is complete, Michael shows you an easy way to secure your vessel to the reverse jam chuck so that you can create a perfectly round bottom while the piece is still spinning.
Create an eye-catching and deceptively simple multi-axis vessel! Get the chips flying with professional woodturner and instructor Michael Roper as you master offset measuring and learn how to safely turn a spindle. Michael will walk you through mounting your second axis, showing you how to make air cuts and secure your vessel into a four-jaw chuck. Then, use a Forstner drill bit to remove wood in the center of your piece and carefully shape the neck. Learn expert hollowing techniques, such as how to use a straight cutter for bulk material removal. Next, find out how to use a bent cutter to clean up the shoulder, and make a caliber to test for wall thickness to avoid punching through! Finally, work with your lathe to create a reverse jam chuck and finish your elegant piece by blending cuts and sanding your vessel for a smooth-as-silk result. You’ll even find out how to create a round-bottom variation of this remarkable vessel.
Michael Roper
Michael Roper is a professional woodturner and woodturning instructor, as well as a third-generation carpenter. When hes not teaching woodturning classes in the Fine Woodworking Program at Red Rocks Community College, Michael leads workshops, demonstrations and a variety of other classes throughout the Denver, Colorado, area. Additionally, his work has been featured in Woodturning Magazine and American Woodturner.
Bonus materials available after purchase