Turning a Spatula
by Phil Colson
Woodturner
Note: click any picture to see a larger version.
I have been making spatulas and spurtles for many years now. Today, I will walk you through my process.
First, I start with a piece of dry 5/4 stock. I like using this thickness because the handle is substantial. I found 3/4 stock made the handle too small and not balanced with the spatula end.
Next, I draw the basic spatula design on the wood, then I rough cut the shape on the bandsaw.
I mount it on the lathe with the spatula end towards the tail stock. You could mount it the other way if you prefer.
I turn the handle round and shape the spatula end so it will be balanced side to side.
I put a bead at the base of the spatula and taper the handle and sand. I used the same sanding drum I showed you in
last month’s tip
to sand the end of the spatula. I cut the handle end off in stages, sanding as I go.
Now it’s time to return to the bandsaw to cut the spatula. I use two blocks of wood wrapped in sandpaper to hold the spatula while I'm cutting. The handle rests on a piece of wood so that the cut is even.
After you cut one side, you have to put the cut piece back against the spatula and then the sandpaper block to cut the other side.
Next, I mount the sanding drum and sand. I put my paper on from headstock to tailstock, 80, 120, 220. Make sure to turn on your dust collector to draw the dust away.
Finally, I apply mineral oil to the spatula. The bead we put at the base of the spatula earlier has a purpose: as you can see the spatula end does not touch the counter, thereby not contaminating the utensil. To have it sit correctly, place the spatula in the position shown and tap the bead with a rubber hammer. It will put a flat on the bottom of the bead.
If you make a spatula or several, please send pictures. I would love to see them. Happy turning.
Phil can be reached directly via email at
woodturnerphil@gmail.com
.
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