Beginner advice needed

[James Smith]

The son of one of my employees has a form of palsy. He mentioned to me yesterday he needed to make some eating utensils that were thicker and easier to hold. With my new found passion for turning, I know I can help.

As a start I’ve asked the fellow to make a cylinder of clay that comfortably fits the child’s hand, and asked to give the clay a squeeze so I could also contour the grip to his hand.

I need some advice of what the best type of wood to purchase given it needs to be non-toxic, washable, durable, etc.. I’m going to do some research on my own for wood, utensils that are made to be used for custom handles, and anything else that might help.

Any advice you can share for any part of this project is most appreciated.

 

[Barbara Gill]

I would suggest a hard maple from the northern part of US. Even the "hard" maple is soft down south.

 

[Clayton]

Barbara is right, go with hard maple.

Clayton

 

[john lucas]

Maple was my choice when I was reading this. It carves nicely and takes a fine finish.

 

[James Smith]

And the winner is.....

Maple. Thank you for your time and advice!!

 

[Ed_McDonnell]

Whoa!!!! For something washable, as in diswasher safe, forget the wood. You can make some really nice turnings from corian. Another good choice that would be available in thicker stock is the polymer material sold at marine centers for cabinet work on boats. I've used the King Starboard brand, but the same product is sold under different brand names.

Another good choice would be to buy some resin pen blanks (or cast your own) to turn. Ed Davidson (who posts on this forum as yoyospin) is one of the most experienced people in the country when it comes to cast resin blanks.

Wood will look great (at first anyway), but I would not use it for everyday eating utensils. Your friend probably has a lot more things to worry about than handwashing some fancy wooden untensils you make for him.

Craft Supplies has a nice selection of unhandled utensils for turners.

Ed

 

[Dave Roller]

White oak.

 

[James Smith]

That's a great thought Ed, thanks. I also appreciate the "Fancy" vote of confidence. At my beginner status, I was just hoping for functional😀

When I get the clay mold, maybe I 'll make some resin ones for everyday and some maple and white oak ones for the Holidays (I need the practice)

Take care,
James

 

[john lucas]

Plastic decking material like they sell at Lowes also turns well and come in pieces thick enough to easily carve into handles

 

[MichaelMouse]

I'd avoid white oak and other large-pored woods. I'd also avoid the dishwasher, or it won't make much difference which wood it's made of after a few trips.

I favor cherry as my utensil wood for beauty, ease of turning or carving, and a natural resistance to mildew. I make maple spoons, but something that starts so white isn't flattered by tomato sauces, something we eat a lot of. Milk and cereal might do.

My favorite potter eats his granola out of one of my wooden bowls with one of my wooden spoons, while I use the lovely bowls he throws.

 

[Angelo]

Dymondwood

The resin impregnated plywood made in Rutland Plywood is an excellent "wood" choice for utensils. We've had a couple of pieces made by John Brammer (I bought them from him at the time of the Charlotte Symposium) They get thrown in the dishwasher all the time. Wood is intact but a little washed out. Color comes right back with a little oil.

Most of the turning supply houses sell pieces for utensils. If you are planning alot of them you can get it directly from Rutland Plywood

A

Paakawood is another resin impregnated plywood. Both types are used extensively for knife handles. Think that handle is real wood? take a closer look

 

[GeorgeH]

Corian or something similar would be my choice for the every day variety of eating utensil but, for that special occasion you spoke of, my vote is for the cherry as MM recommended. It has the natural beauty, stain resistance and durability that I believe you're looking for.
Oh; and I understand that you're viewing this to some extent as an opportunity to learn - but your compassion for the youngster and his family has not gone unnoticed.