I want to try my hand at hollow vessels and would appreciate recomendations on a good book and what tools I would need to do this. I've been turning bowls for a year now with pretty good success and want to take this next step. Your input is greatly appreciated.
STEMO
Rather than a book I suggest a couple of videos: John Jordan and David Ellsworth both have excellent videos on this procedure. Joe keeler
I have to echo Joe Keeler. Both the Ellsworth and the Jordan videos are excellent and they present two varied approaches to hollowing, both of which I use on a fairly regular basis. I like to use the inserted tip tools like Ellsworth makes but held in an arm brace. These are simple tools to make and a cheap way to get started. For that matter they are a cheap way to continue :-) See my web stie under tools for ideas.
STEMO,
You've asked a $64,000 question. Hollow forms include a huge array of shapes and sizes. There is no single tool or system that can cover the entire range. Most systems, even smaller ones, approach $80-$100. they go up from there. (I'm not counting homemade which can be had for a lot less).
I have three recommendations.
1 - Get the videos the others recommended.2 - Read the articles on "More Woodturning's website written by Lyn Mangiameli regarding hollowing tools. He has written extensively on all sorts of tools, tool systems, handles, etc. You can get his opinion of many tools and well as an excellent survey of what is on the market.
3 - Talk to some other turners and borrow their tools. Hollowing tools are expensive. I personally have better than $2,500 worth and I use most of them for all kinds of hollow forms from Christmas ornament balls to large vessels. Try them out before you buy.Joe Fleming - San Diego =================
I think it's time to purchase some videos. I thank you for your responses and suggestions and will keep you posted on my progress.
STEMO
I agree with the video recommendations -- its best to see and hear the tools at work, and sound becomes very important in thin-walled hollow forms. For books, I think the best information I've seen is in Woodturning: A Fresh Approach, by Robert Chapman (GMC Publications, Great Britain).
Safe spinning,
Brad Vietje Thetford, VT
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