Community
While this is not a tool you buy and store in your shop, it may be the most important one on this list.
A tool helps you do things, and a woodturning community helps you save money on tools and wood, as well as learn techniques in classes. Plus, it’s the go-to resource for answering the countless questions about the details of your projects.
MWA dues cost me $35 a year, and it’s worth every penny. Members have given me tools and advice, even a lathe that was no longer in use. MWA organizes group purchases so members can buy tools at a discount from woodturners’ supply stores.
Buy the best tools you can. I’m not a fan of cheap tools. The additional cost of an excellent tool will be forgotten over its long life and quality results. Also, if you’re in a community and decide woodturning is not for you, you can easily sell quality tools to members. They will not buy your cheap tools.
Search for a woodturning community in your area. Start with the American Association of Woodturners, which has 365 worldwide chapters.
Roughing Gouge
This tool makes squared wood blanks round. It’s beefy, with a long handle and a U-shaped steel flute that removes a lot of wood.
Unlike most turners who love creating gorgeous bowls, I just do spindle work to make heirloom lefse rolling pins. I use a roughing gouge is the most, to round out blanks and create curves and coves in the handles.
My roughing gouge, purchased used, is 1-1/4-inch across the flute, but a 3/4-inch roughing gouge is a common and versatile size. Prices range from $70 to $120.
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