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proper techniques for using a skew chisel?

G

gritskringle

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Oct 29, 2005
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I am a begginer at turning pens. I am currently using, what I believe to be, is a bull nose chisel. I have a skew chisel in the "cheap" begginers chisel set I purchased, which I have heard is an advanced tool. I have turned about 10 pens or so. I am ready to invest in a quality tool set. Any suggestions? And, how should I aproach the stock using a skew? I posted a similar thread earlier, but am interested in skew chisel techniques(form, angles, etc.).
 
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The complete answer to your question is a very long magazine article or a chapter in a good woodturning book.

You might start by looking at Alan Lacer's article My Friend the Skew

Also any good basic woodturning book will contain good information on the skew. Try books by Richard Raffan, Keith Rowley and Mike Darlow just to name a few that I have.
 
I met Alan Lacer in Minneapolis at a demonstration at Rockler's. Nice guy full of great tips. I didn't see him use his friend, the skew, but I did see him use a bowl gouge with great aplomb.
 
Even better than the book, Alan Lacer's videos. Or the videos by any of the others.

JimQ
 
Allen Lacer used the skew and answered many of my questions about the skew at the Rocklers affair last Sat between about 1000 and 1200 hrs.
Very nice helpfull person.
If you read this; Thanks Allen.
 
Frank I use the skew a lot. I think it is the best tool for doing straight lines or tapers even for a beginner. It is definitly harder to turn a bead with one. I suggest you put a scrap piece in the lathe every day and just practice turning long smooth tapers both left and right. You will get a feel for it very quickly. The long bevel on the tool helps you get good control for doing straight lines and gradual curves. Some spindle gouges have a long bevel like this but many that Ihave seen have a short bevel. A short bevel is handy and even necessary to turn a cove but takes a lot more control to turn a straight line.
 
An investment in one of Alan L. video would be well worth it. Or checking it out of you local Club's lib. The video will help you buy the right one and teach you how to sharpen it. I'm pretty new at this my self but have been using the skew for a few month now and use it when ever I get the chance. Even to pratice making an egg.
 
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