To avoid screw holes and to speed assembly, I attach turning blanks using hot-melt glue chips and a torch-heated faceplate. Aluminum faceplates work better for this method because they conduct heat well and cool quickly. If your faceplate is iron, you can attach a thick aluminum face to the faceplate with flat screws.

First, be sure the bottom of the blank is flat. Then heat the faceplate with a torch and place it on the turning blank to warm the wood. Cut thin discs of hot-melt glue (no gun needed) and place them on the heated blank in amounts proportional to the bulk of the blank. Use enough to secure your doubts as well as your wood. Place the faceplate on the blank, and clamp in position until cool.

After turning is complete, aim a torch at the faceplate, heating it enough so the wood falls off with a gentle tap. While the glue is still hot, clean up the faceplate with a rag and scrape the glue from the bottom of the turning.

Randy Kalish, Belen, N. Mex.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Several readers have expressed concern for the safety of previous faceplate attachment methods using hot glue or double- sided tape. Kalish’s method seems more secure than these. Nonetheless, each reader should test this, or any other new technique, to be sure it is safe in his own application.

Fine Woodworking Magazine, October 1983 No. 42

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