Learn the difference between three common techniques for roughing a bowl. They vary in difficulty and in how you position the tool.

Shear scraping: Scraping is an old-fashioned turning technique where you use a sharp tool with a burr on it to create a profile on the wood. It yields a rough, torn surface.

Shear cutting: This technique requires more skill than the shear scrape because you must ride the bevel of the tool across the turning. It leaves a relatively clean surface.

Cutting: The cutting technique leaves the smoothest surface of the three. Hold the tool handle behind the cut. The bevel constantly rides behind the work.

Mike Mahoney
Orem, Utah
Teacher, author, and wood turner Mike Mahoney answers eight reader questions about tools and techniques for turning bowls.

QUESTIONS

1		Why are there so many different gouges? PLAY 1
2		What’s the difference between shear scraping, scraping, and cutting? NOW PLAYING
3		What’s the right way to position a gouge?  PLAY 3
4		How can I avoid tearout when turning end-grain fiber? PLAY 4
5		What’s the best way to handle difficult grain? PLAY 5
6		How can I prevent green wood from cracking? PLAY 6
7		What’s the best way to cut a tenon for a scroll chuck? PLAY 7
8		What’s the proper lathe speed? PLAY 8