How to Choose the Right Turning Blank for Your Project

Choosing the right turning blank is essential to achieving the results you want, and the decision depends on several factors: wood species, project type, and wood quality. Here’s how to make the best selection:

Consider the Type of Project

• Small Projects (Pens, Keychains, etc.): A smaller, lightweight blank such as a pen blank or small spindle blank works best for these projects. Woods like maple, walnut, and exotic woods are great options for these types of projects.
• Medium Projects (Bowls, Decorative Items): A larger, thicker blank like a bowl blank or platter blank will be required. Hardwood species like cherry, oak, and walnut are perfect for bowls, as they have good workability and strength.
• Large Projects (Furniture Legs, Larger Sculptures): For larger items, you'll need a long and sturdy blank, such as a large spindle blank. These typically come from hardwoods like oak, ash, or beech.

Wood Species

• Hardwoods: Hardwoods like maple, oak, cherry, and walnut are excellent for turning because they offer a smooth finish and workability. They are also durable, making them great for functional items.
• Exotic Woods: Exotic woods like cocobolo, ebony, and rosewood are incredibly beautiful and have stunning grain patterns, but they can be more difficult to work with due to their hardness and cost. These are perfect for custom or luxury items, such as pens or small turned objects.
• Softwoods: While softwoods like pine or cedar are easier to turn, they may not be as durable or aesthetically pleasing for certain projects. They are best suited for smaller items or beginner projects.

Grain and Figure

• Straight Grain: A straight grain is ideal for turning because it creates a stable and predictable surface. It’s great for items that require precision, like pens or spindles.
• Curly or Figured Grain: If you’re aiming for something unique, choose a blank with curly or figured grain. These types of grains create beautiful patterns as you turn the piece. Woods like curly maple, quilted maple, or spalted wood often have these effects.
• Burls: Burls are irregular, knobby sections of the tree with highly figured grain patterns. They create visually stunning pieces but can be trickier to turn due to their unusual grain patterns.

How to Prepare Your Turning Blank

Before you start turning your wood blank, it’s important to prepare it properly. Here’s a simple guide:

Check for Defects

• Always inspect your blank for cracks, splits, or voids. Defects in the wood can cause problems while turning and result in an uneven surface.
• For blanks with natural edges, check for any bark or uneven spots that may interfere with your turning.

Center the Blank

• Properly centering your turning blank on the lathe is critical for smooth, balanced turning. Ensure that the blank is mounted securely before turning.

Seal the Ends

• To prevent cracking and splitting during the drying process, seal the ends of your wood blanks with wax, especially if you are using a larger blank or a fresh-cut piece of wood.

Balance the Blank

• When turning larger blanks (like bowls), it’s important to balance the piece before beginning to turn. This will prevent wobbling, which can result in uneven cuts or damage to your tools.

Turning Tips for Beginners

If you’re new to turning, here are a few tips to make the process smoother and more enjoyable:

• Start Slow: Always begin at a low speed on your lathe and increase gradually. This helps you control the tool better and avoid accidents.
• Sharp Tools Are Essential: A sharp chisel or turning tool is essential for clean cuts. Dull tools can cause tearing, rough surfaces, and frustration.
• Use Proper Safety Gear: Always wear eye protection, a face shield, and dust collection equipment when turning. Wood dust can be harmful to your health, and safety gear helps prevent injury from flying debris.
• Practice and Patience: Woodturning is a skill that takes time to develop. Don’t be discouraged by early mistakes. Practice on inexpensive blanks until you’re comfortable with the techniques.

Where to Buy Turning Blanks

When you’re ready to get started, finding high-quality turning blanks is essential for success. Look for reputable woodworking suppliers like Legacy Shop Supply that offer a variety of wood species and sizes, such as pen blanks, bowl blanks, and exotic wood blanks.

 

Turning blanks are the foundation of every woodturning project, and choosing the right blank for your project is a key step in the creative process. Whether you're working with small pen blanks or large bowl blanks, the wood species, grain patterns, and size of the blank will all impact the final piece. By understanding these factors and how to prepare your turning blanks, you’ll be well on your way to creating beautiful, unique turned pieces.

With the right tools, materials, and a little practice, you'll be able to turn wood into art. Happy turning!