chatter tool

Here are some sample results on endgrain mahogany, and a link at the bottom for instructions I wrote on making your own chattertool:

you want to try chatterwork before investing time or money in the tool, a hacksaw blade holder works good--the kind with just a setscrew on the end of the handle, without the curved arm. For a blade, use any piece of carbon steel 1/32" to 1/16" thick, 1/4" to 3/8" wide, and sticking out of the handle 1" to 2". A jigsaw blade will do fine. Grind the end round with a slight bevel, and bend the first 1/2" down about 10 degrees.

To use, set the toolrest high and away from the wood so the tip is at center--with the handle, not the blade, on the toolrest--and jab the tool sharply and quickly into the wood so it gives a shreiking sound. You can move it sideways for a wider pattern, but don't linger in any one spot or it will muddle the results--shouldn't take more than a second.

Ken Grunke Coulee Region Woodturners of Wisconsin

Really, really *exactly* what I wanted, thank you so much!!

William (gonna go and make one right now!!)

You can find a review of the Sorby Chattertool at

Personally I prefer the EliAvisera chattertool that are available from Hamlet Craft Tools and click 'New Tools'. I understandthat Craft Supplies USA also sell these. I'm not that good but youcan see what results they give at Hope it helps

Paul >I am interested in getting one of these, I know Sorbys makes one, >anyone else?

I found everything in the basement to make one pretty well extactly like yours - except I had to use copper pipe which is a slightly loose fit as the collar

again!!

William

Just what I had in mind, being able to find everything needed in the basement. That was my favorite place in the house when I was growing up and I'm always drawn to other peoples' basements and garages when visiting them. Nice work!

Ken Grunke