Typically, when turning a spindle with several diameters along its length, you need to constantly reset a caliper to check those critical dimensions, a tedious and time-consuming process. Or you need several calipers, each preset to a different diameter. Windsor chairmaker Peter Galbert has come up with a better way: a caliper that has a built-in, easy-to-read scale that measures any diameter from 1/2 in. to 2-1/2 in. while the work is spinning. In fact, the caliper can be held in one hand and pressed against the back of the spinning wood while a parting tool is held in the other hand, cutting the wood until the desired diameter is reached.

Measure as you turn. With the caliper behind the workpiece, you can read the diameter as you turn.

I found the caliper to be pretty much foolproof, as did a number of other turners who tried it. The Galbert Caliper sells for around $80. For more information, go to www.petergalbertchairmaker.com.

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