In order to turn bowls on a foot-powered lathe efficiently one needs a well-made hook tool. These turning tools are not manufactured in North America and are therefore difficult to find. Most pole lathe bowl turners have to learn to make the tools themselves or find a blacksmith to help with the production of the tool. We will spend two days in the forge learning basic blacksmithing with hammer and anvil. We will study various hook design shapes and their uses, heat-treat high carbon tool steel, and practice grinding and sharpening.This class is both for beginners intending to take the pole-lathe turning class following the forging class and for people who have previously turned some bowls on a pole-lathe and are ready to make their own tools.

Students should be prepared for a very physically demanding class that requires a certain level of stamina, coordination, and physical strength as well as the ability to follow precise instructions with regard to safety. Students must have the hand strength to open a sealed jar or swing an axe or hammer repeatedly. If there are questions about this or if students have injuries or physical limitations, please contact the school before registering.
 

This is part of a three-course series. Each course complements the others while also being excelent standalone experiences. They may be taken together or individually.

• Pole Lathe: Build Your Own, 11/1 - 11/3
• Pole Lathe: Forge the Tools, 11/4 - 11/5
• Pole Lathe: Turning, 11/6 - 11/8

You will need the following tools for this class:

All required tools/materials are provided by your instructor and North House and will be available once the course begins.

Feel free to bring your favorite tools and whatever materials you might feel appropriate for this course.