After seeking guidance here, I decided to use jam chucks for tidying up the foot of my bowls. My resolve was further strengthened after reading Doc Green's terrific book, Fixtures and Chucks for Woodturning, which I got through (inter library loan at) my library. I recommend this book to anyone who wants a broad view on work holding approaches with lots of practical, implementable advice.
The specific option I went with is his system for making custom inserts for jam chucks on a flat plate. It's super easy to put together and the modularity makes it easy to crank out additional inserts that are also smaller (for storage).
Briefly, here is how it works:
Support the work with the tailstock.
I plan to re-make my base piece with a tenon so that I can change into that without every removing the chuck from the lathe.
The specific option I went with is his system for making custom inserts for jam chucks on a flat plate. It's super easy to put together and the modularity makes it easy to crank out additional inserts that are also smaller (for storage).
Briefly, here is how it works:
- you attach some stock to a faceplate (as I did) or chuck (as I will soon do)
- round it off, but it doesn't have to perfect
- find the center, which also doesn't have to be perfect
- drill a hole for a 1/2" dowel with a Forstener bit, perhaps 1/2" deep.
- Drill a hole for the dowel as above, doesn't have to be perfect.
- Press fit the insert to the base piece over the dowel
- Now shape the insert so that its profile will support the bowl on the inside. This should be as good as you can make it.
Support the work with the tailstock.
I plan to re-make my base piece with a tenon so that I can change into that without every removing the chuck from the lathe.
)