Artist's Studio

Woodturning is fun for me. Unfortunately, I don’t get to do it often enough. Recently I’ve put in some extra time in learning how to use the skew chisel. For those who have no idea what a skew chisel is, let me explain. It has a straight edge on one axis and a bevel on two sides. It is used primarily to turn spindles. Many turners avoid using it because it is difficult to manage. Its one great advantage is that it cuts cleaner than any other chisel, and it cuts fast.

I bought a how-to video hosted by the well-known turner, Alan Lacer, who demonstrates its use in detail. Alan is a great teacher. I’ve finished watching it for the second time. I tested my knowledge with some 2″ x 4″ scraps and then decided to try my hand at a small, finished project. My choice was to make a handle for my small camera.

Cameras have gotten so small that they are difficult to hold without getting a finger in front of the shutter, or blocking the flash, or covering a microphone.

My new found ability with the skew chisel was so successful that I turned several handles, experimenting with the look and feel of them. I made them out of purple heart wood, an exotic wood found in Central and South America. My brother-in-law gave me a goodly sized piece of the wood for Christmas last year. The wood is especially dense and heavy and makes for a nice feeling handle. I also turned one in walnut. Here are some photos of my handles.