Knowledge You Can Build On — Est. 1998
Question for john Lucas
Richard L. Snyder Sr.
John. I've been watching your you tube videos. The one about spindle turning / beading. I have a set of beading tools but I was never quite sure how to use them ( your video solved that issue ). How do you sharpen them and how exactly did you make the "homemade ones"? I would like to make some different sizes, as large as 1 inch. (???) I currently have a bench top lathe, but plan on a floor model soon.
Thanks for your help, Rick Snyder
Re: Question for john Lucas
john Lucas
I sharpen only the top and not the flute or bead shape. You don't want to change that shape. To make your own you obviously have to sharpen and shape the flute which is what I'm calling the bead shape. I usually start with a round file or even a V file. It's hard to start right in the middle of a flat surface to cut a cove that will be your bead. I use the V file to start the cut and then set the round file in that.
Oops lets back up. First you need to start with a piece of metal the proper width for the bead you want. Then flatten the top surface. I start with a flat file and usually end up with sandpaper on a flat surface to get it good and flat and polished as far as I think I need to go. usually at least to 600 grit.
Now color the top with a permanent marker. scribe the half circle you want. I find those drill sizing plates you buy that have a hole for every drill size perfect for this. Pick a hole size you want and lay it on the top of the tool and scribe the circle. Then it's just a matter of filing or using a Dremel to carefully shape the opening. I cut the opening with a slope of about 70 degrees in from the top surface. It's not critical. Polish this opening. If you don't have a dremel abrasive tool that will cut that smooth use spray adhesive on a round dowel and glue on fine sandpaper. Chain saw grinding tools work pretty well and Dremel sells them in several sizes. Ideally you want the inside of the cove to look like Chrome but most of us don't go that far, it's just something to shoot for.
I think Harvey Meyer shows how to use the tools best of anyone I've seen. You rock the tool slightly left to right and push the tool in, stopping just before the very bottom of the cove of the tool touches the top of the bead. He uses the Dway tools which cut very clean but it's also his technique and touch that makes them work so well.
Re: Question for john Lucas
John K Jordan
Check Harvey Meyer's video starting at about 18:45
http://youtu.be/5A4UI_7OYDo
JKJ
