Woodturning Roughing Techniques

In this video tutorial I examine four different ways to rough a wood blank to round on a wood lathe. As woodturners we run into different situations that can be unique to each project we are working on. Hopefully using each one of these skills will increase your versatility and speed as you start your woodturning projects.
The first technique is using a basic spindle roughing gouge between centers to knock down the corners on a piece of hardwood. Next I show how to use a bowl gouge to start turning a bowl. A little more advanced is doing a peeling cut with a skew chisel. Lastly I show a technique I like to call a floating planing cut. There are many ways to get a wood blank round these are just a few. Hopefully as you put these into practice it will increase your speed and skill at woodturning.
Geiserwoodturner is for entertainment purposes. It is always your responsibility to learn how to safely operate your power tools and equipment. Don’t be “that guy!”

[@mauiharward7897]

“Kindness”... what a nice sentiment in these crazy times. Well done... and thanks.

[@Geiserwoodturner]

Thanks so much! It seems like a little “kindness” could go a long way in the world today. I appreciate the compliment!

[@zenink2654]

I love your philosophy. It is emptiness that makes a vessel useful.

[@Geiserwoodturner]

Yes! A vessel that is already full has a hard time accepting anything different. Thanks

[@michaeldequatro1012]

Thanks Jason. Best video I've seen on how to use those tools.

[@Geiserwoodturner]

Thanks the skew has become one of my favorites and I rough blanks with it probably 75% of the time now.

[@amandatallis9875]

Jason thank-you for the information on these techniques Amanda from Scotland UK

[@LansdowneWoodworker]

Your kindness vessel is beautiful thanks for the video

[@Geiserwoodturner]

Thanks, it is still one of my favorites!

[@jaredhubbell7013]

I really appreated everything about this video. Both the content and the kind and thoughful manner it was delivered. Thanks!

[@Geiserwoodturner]

Wow! You really know how to give good compliments! Thanks so much. 😁😁

[@jonsayre9404]

Great video. Very informative and well explained. Thank your. Look forward for next video.

[@Geiserwoodturner]

I’m glad you thought it was well explained. I worry that that words don’t come out right sometimes! 😊😀

[@johnhartman8086]

very good.

[@sodacan1011111111111]

Thank you very much. That was very informative. I love turning madrone.
That stuff cuts like butter.
You sure do some beautiful work my friend 💯🇺🇸

[@Geiserwoodturner]

Madrone is awesome! Really consistent cutting! Thanks for the nice message! 😀

[@sodacan1011111111111]

@@Geiserwoodturner ... It grows about 2 hours from me. Does it grow in your area?

[@Geiserwoodturner]

No not in idaho. I got this in Washington from a family member. 😀

[@lynnejohnson7776]

Hi Jason, I'm a new wood Turner! Your video is so clear and informative and well presented with your excellent commentary. Thank you so much, I will be returning for more without a doubt .

[@Geiserwoodturner]

Thanks so much! Welcome to wood turning! I hope to have even more to watch soon.

[@drmmacleod]

Hi Jason, Just like the previous post, I also have just found your site. I found the videos very helpful as I am a beginner. I really enjoyed this video about roughing, particularly when you are using the skew. I am having major problems with my skew and it keeps catching, even though I try to watch the bevel. Have you any tips to minimize catches? Also, could you make a video on making snowmen and Christmas trees? My very best wishes from Edinburgh, Scotland and thank you for your excellent teaching.

[@Geiserwoodturner]

Thanks so much for watching and the ideas for videos. I hope to start some more when I get a little less busy.

[@johnpbh]

An excellent video with some very clear and helpful advice. I might just be leaving the planing cut until I have got my bowl gouge working properly.... : ) :) :). Love the vase at the end. Stay safe and thanks for uploading.

[@Geiserwoodturner]

Yes, one thing at a time right! Thanks for the kind words!

[@saidchoucair9247]

🇧🇷Jason is very interesting to watch yours videos, always with many tips, especially for beginners, with the joy of those who love what they do. I wish success in his work and a big hug from Brazil Said Choucair

[@Geiserwoodturner]

Thanks so much!

[@neva-surrender]

Very helpful, thank you

[@Geiserwoodturner]

Glad it was helpful!

[@snovku]

Great demonstration of roughing techniques. As a beginner woodturner I am a bit afraid of the skew chisel but your confident, easy use makes me feel it might not be as bad as I thought. Not necessarily 'the devil's can-opener'. :-) Lovely final thoughts too. Thank you.

[@Geiserwoodturner]

I’ve heard “the devil’s fingernail!” 🤣🤣 it’s worth it to learn the skew it will quickly become one of the favorite tools you own.

[@rgeaston1]

Jason, I just stumbled onto your website, and I'm so glad I did. Your videos are outstanding--clearly presented with just the right amount of commentary. Your choice of subject matter is also excellent. You are a great resource for all of us, and I wish you all the best. I am a new woodturner, and really need the kind of instruction you're offering. Thanks so much.

[@piyushpanchal7538]

Nice video sir

[@Geiserwoodturner]

Thanks

[@southernkei]

What speed do you recommend for roughing?

[@Geiserwoodturner]

Depends on the diameter you are turning. Slower for big objects and faster for small objects. My tops are about 2” diameter and I rough them at 1500 to 2200 rpm.