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On “October 9, 2026, 7:33 am EDT” there are 252 posts in Carl’s blog. Posts may be assigned to more than one category. Thus they may appear multiple times on this page.
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Books (7) [category/books]
Woodturning Books & Dvds
- 64ths of an Inch Ruler / Table - March 3, 2023 [Books]
This 64ths of an inch ruler/table makes finding the right drill bit easy. You need a drill bit that is a little bigger than 3/4". What size do you need? 49/64" Right? - Updated Carl’s “MM to Inches” for Woodturners - October 5, 2024 [Books] (Original: May 28, 2021)
Carl often see Woodturners get all twisted up by 1" = 25.4mm. His advice is to forget about the 0.4mm! Carl does the MM to inches conversion in his head using this method. - Updated Essential Books & DVDs for Students - May 31, 2024 [Books] (Original: March 13, 2015)
Carl's recommended and Must Have Woodturning Books and DVDs. By topic: Spindle Turning, Bowl Turning, Project Books, Picture Books, Hollow Forms, etc. - Hard Versus Soft Maple – The Wood Database - January 26, 2015 [Books]
Quick Tip: Carl's rant on "Hard" vs "Soft" Maple. People often say they have hard maple when it is soft. Look up the difference in Wood Database. - Updated Power Carving Textures - March 21, 2026 [Books] (Original: January 8, 2017)
Carl's take on carving textures with Reciprocating and Rotary Power Carving Tools. Recommended Burrs, Gouges, Layout, Cleaning up with Bristle Discs, etc. - Steel By The Numbers - June 28, 2020 [Books]
Quick Tip: Check out the "About Steel" page on McMaster-Carr website to find the right steel for your next project! What is 4140 steel? Etc. - Updated Woodburners & Pyrography - October 30, 2025 [Books] (Original: April 28, 2013)
Carl's take on the best Woodburners, Tips, & Books for woodturners. What he recommends for his students.
Carl's Articles (29) [category/carls-articles]
Carl's Magazine Articles
- Updated 5 Inch Sanding Disks - November 22, 2025 [Carl's Articles] (Original: October 20, 2025)
Carl now uses 5 inch Sanding Disks on the outside of bowls and hollow forms. 5" disks can easily handle jobs that 3" disks struggle with. - Updated A Modern Lamp for any Table - December 31, 2023 [Carl's Articles] (Original: August 1, 2021)
Link to Carl's "A Modern Lamp for any Table" AAW magazine article PDF. How to turn a wooden lamp that looks great! A skill building project.Carl's Articles, Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Projects
- Banjo-Mounted Hair Dryer - December 9, 2022 [Carl's Articles]
When I paint turned items on the lathe, I like to dry the paint faster with a hair dryer. Hand-holding the hair dryer would be tedious, so I made a tool post that holds the hair dryer for me. - Updated Bowl Gouge Cleaning Wheel - April 17, 2023 [Carl's Articles] (Original: October 17, 2022)
Carl cleans his bowl gouges with a 3" nylon wheel attached to the side if his grinder when turning green wood. It is quick and easy!Carl's Articles, Carl's For Students, Great Ideas, Tools Machines
- Updated Carl’s Slip On Custom Centering Cones - January 31, 2025 [Carl's Articles] (Original: April 14, 2023)
Carl now uses "slip on" custom UHMW cones. Slip on cones are better! They are easier to make and they are easier to use. Why? Because, they just slip on!Carl's Articles, Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools
- Updated Carl’s Thread On Custom Centering Cones - April 14, 2023 [Carl's Articles] (Original: January 1, 2008)
Link to Carl's "Custom Centering Cones" AAW magazine article PDF. What they are. Why live center cones are useful. How to make your own out of UHMW. - Color Code Your Faceplate Screws - February 10, 2024 [Carl's Articles]
Carl likes to use faceplates. He color codes his faceplate screws to avoid mistakes. 1‐1/2" screws are pink. 1-3/4" screws are green. Carl likes number 14, high thread, stainless steel Sheet Metal screws purchased from McMaster.com. - Corner Code Your Sandpaper - April 4, 2024 [Carl's Articles]
Carl likes to "Corner Code" his sandpaper to avoid mistakes. On 220-grit sandpaper, he cuts off two corners; on 180 grit, he cuts off one corner; etc. - Updated Custom Tool Handles - May 1, 2024 [Carl's Articles] (Original: May 10, 2015)
Link to Carl's "Custom Tool Handles" AAW magazine article PDF. How to make your own Custom Tool Handles from PVC Pipe and Heat Shrinkable Fabric or Elastic Mesh Sleeve. - Updated Drop-on Chainsaw Scabbard - August 5, 2024 [Carl's Articles] (Original: August 15, 2024)
Carl made a "Drop-on" scabbard for his chainsaw that is easy to install. Thus he always uses it, for safety, when his chainsaw is not in use. - Updated Featured in AAW Members’ Gallery - September 4, 2021 [Carl's Articles] (Original: December 2, 2014)
Link to Carl's "Members' Gallery" section of AAW magazine PDF. Carl's artwork was featured in the August 2014 issue of "American Woodturner" the Journal of the American Association of Woodturners. - Finger Cots Protect Skin - October 30, 2022 [Carl's Articles]
Finger cots are like a disposable glove for one finger. I like to use them when a five-finger glove would be overkill—like when spreading cyanoacrylate (CA) glue with my finger. - Fixed Calipers Improve Accuracy - June 20, 2025 [Carl's Articles]
Carl likes to use home made fixed calipers made out of 1/4" plywood. They are more accurate than pointed metal calipers. - Fluid Film - August 10, 2024 [Carl's Articles]
Carl uses "Fluid Film" to prevent rust on the bed ways of his lathe, band saw, drill press, and other shop machines. - Updated Foam Cole Jaws - December 27, 2021 [Carl's Articles] (Original: April 8, 2019)
Link to Carl's "Foam Cole Jaws" AAW magazine "tips section" PDF. Sticky-back craft foam on my Jumbo Jaws helps protect a bowl’s rim when reverse-chucked to finish the bottom. - Updated Get A Grip – Add Elastic Mesh To Handles - September 11, 2024 [Carl's Articles] (Original: November 7, 2018)
Link to Carl's "Get A Grip" AAW magazine "tips section" PDF. Adding a layer of elastic mesh sleeve to a tool handle is a cheap and easy way to get a better grip. - Grease Chuck Jaw Screws - June 4, 2025 [Carl's Articles]
Carl likes to grease the jaw screws on his woodturning chucks. It makes the screws easier to remove latter. - Updated Hand Exercisers for Mere Mortals - September 29, 2025 [Carl's Articles] (Original: January 20, 2019)
Carl recommends Zon (brand) hand exercisers for woodturners who need to improve their hand strength. The Zon ones are good for mere mortals. - Leave Flap on Turners Tape - April 16, 2025 [Carl's Articles]
Carl likes to leave a flat on his roll of double sided Turners Tape. This makes it easier to use the next time around. - Mallet and Awl Marking Kit - May 6, 2023 [Carl's Articles]
Carl uses a shop made mallet and awl to mark the center of things. As he gets older, he tries to be more careful with his hands. He does not want to develop arthritis, - Updated Mounting Plates and Shallow Bowls - September 8, 2023 [Carl's Articles] (Original: November 16, 2019)
Link to Carl's "Drilled Chucking Recess" AAW magazine "tips section" PDF. A 2-1/2″ diameter hole is an easy and secure way to mount blanks for plates and shallow bowls on the lathe.Carl's Articles, Carl's For Students, Great Ideas, Tools Chucks
- Multiple Drill Chucks - October 21, 2024 [Carl's Articles]
Carl purchased Multiple Drill Chucks to improve his efficiency. Drill chucks have become ubiquitous and cheap on Amazon. - Updated Octagon Template Cuts Corners - December 27, 2021 [Carl's Articles] (Original: December 28, 2021)
Link to Carl's "Octagon Template & Jig" AAW magazine "tips section" PDF. Carl uses a simple Octagon Template and Jig to cut the corners off of plate or shallow bowl blanks. - PVC Cutting Tip Covers - February 17, 2025 [Carl's Articles]
Carl likes to cover the cutting tips of his turning tools when not in use for safety reasons. He makes covers out of PVC pipe. - Rotating T-Square - August 5, 2023 [Carl's Articles]
Carl's Rotating “T-square.” Unlike a traditional T-square, whose head registers on a straightedge, this one features a circle that registers in the bowl he has turned. This T-square allows Carl to draw evenly spaced lines and replicate patterns easily. - Updated Shopmade Collet Chuck - September 4, 2021 [Carl's Articles] (Original: November 19, 2018)
Link to Carl's "Shopmade Collet Chuck" AAW magazine article PDF. How to make your own custom collet chucks out of UHMW plastic. - Spindle Extender for Sanding - December 16, 2024 [Carl's Articles]
Carl uses a Spindle Extender on his wood lathe to make sanding a lot easier. - Updated Use Metalworking Steel Wool - April 5, 2024 [Carl's Articles] (Original: April 12, 2024)
Carl likes to us "Silicon Carbide - Metalworking Steel Wool" on Woodturning projects. "Woodworking Steel Wool" is Aluminum Oxide. AO melts to easily if you apply too much pressure with the lathe running fast. - Wire Hanger Holds Work While Finishing - October 18, 2025 [Carl's Articles]
Carl likes to hang things up while I spraying on a clear finish. He use a pieceof stiff clothes hanger wire or RG45 gas welding rod.
Carl's Artwork (17) [category/carls-artwork]
- “Craters and Sun” for AAW Live Auction - May 23, 2014 [Carl's Artwork]
Carl's "Craters and Sun" square bowl was 1 of 30 pieces featured in the 2014 AAW Symposium Saturday Night Banquet Live Action. - Updated 60 Covid-19 Hollow Forms - October 12, 2020 [Carl's Artwork] (Original: July 7, 2020)
Carl turned 60 hollow forms in the first 3 months of 2020, Covid-19 lock down. So far so good. They have kept the doctor away. - AAW Turning of the Week - March 6, 2019 [Carl's Artwork]
Carl's Pennsylvania Dutch Cake Stand was just selected as the "AAW Turning of the Week" on 3/6/2019. - Agar Class at Arrowmont - July 2, 2019 [Carl's Artwork]
Photos of the artwork that Carl created in June 2019 "WOW Factor" master class with Nick Agar at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts - Carl Ford’s Etsy Shop Grand Opening - November 27, 2019 [Carl's Artwork]
Carl just opened his new "CarlFordWoodturner" shop on etsy! Please shop early and often! - Updated Carl’s Artwork – Fall 2020 - December 16, 2020 [Carl's Artwork] (Original: November 14, 2020)
Photos of artwork made by Carl in the Fall of 2020. Star Bowls, Maple Leaf Plate & Sunset Wide Rim Bowl. - Updated Carl’s Cactus Plate Bowl - March 9, 2023 [Carl's Artwork] (Original: January 26, 2019)
Carl shows the inspiration for his Ric Rac Orchid Cactus Plate/Bowl and how he created it using the sgraffito process he learned from Al Stirt. - Updated Covid-19 Hollow Forms - October 12, 2020 [Carl's Artwork] (Original: April 9, 2020)
Photos of the 60 hollow forms that Carl turned in the first 3 months of the Covid-19 lock down. Carl turned one hollow form a day to keep the Covid-19 doctor away. - Updated Done In One Day Vases - November 28, 2020 [Carl's Artwork] (Original: February 16, 2020)
A quick summary of Carl's techniqe that allows him to turn a wooden vase (hollow form vessel) in one day. - Updated Featured in AAW Members’ Gallery - September 4, 2021 [Carl's Artwork] (Original: December 2, 2014)Link to Carl's "Members' Gallery" section of AAW magazine PDF. Carl's artwork was featured in the August 2014 issue of "American Woodturner" the Journal of the American Association of Woodturners.
- Hollow Forms Winter 2015/2016 - April 21, 2016 [Carl's Artwork]
Group photo of hollow forms turned by Carl over the winter of 2015/2016. Turned from Cherry or Black Birch logs. - Live Demos at 2022 Totally Turning - March 18, 2022 [Carl's Artwork]
Carl will be demonstrating live at 2022 Totally Turning Symposium in Saratoga Springs, NY on Saturday and Sunday, March 26 & 27, 2022. - New Pinterest Gallery of Carl’s Wood Art - March 9, 2022 [Carl's Artwork]
Check out Carl's new Pinterest Photo Gallery of his Wood Art. Over 300 items with a user friendly front end interface to Pinterest. - Updated New Ring Tool - April 28, 2024 [Carl's Artwork] (Original: December 20, 2018)
Photos of Cedar Vases made by Carl with his new Sorby Ring Tool. Turned out of green Cedar logs. What you see is what came off the tool. NO sanding. - Nutmeg 2×4 Challenge - December 29, 2018 [Carl's Artwork]
Carl's bowl that he turned from a 2x4 for the January 2014 "Nutmeg 2x4 Challenge". Step by step photos and suggestions. - Viking Sunset Bowl - December 19, 2018 [Carl's Artwork]
Photos of Nick Agar style Viking Sunset Bowl made by Carl. Quick intro to airbrushes and cheap airbrush advice. - Wall Art – Summer 2020 - August 29, 2020 [Carl's Artwork]
Photos of Nick Agar style Square Wall Art made by Carl during the summer of 2020. Square woodturnings with, spiral tool and airbrushed decorations.
Carl's Blog (6) [category/carls-blog]
- Updated Blog Moved from Quick Blogcast to WordPress - May 6, 2022 [Carl's Blog] (Original: June 23, 2014)
GoDaddy is discontinued Quick Blogcast on June 25, 2014. I moved my blog to Wordpress at www.carlford.us. This turned out to a blessing in disguise. I like Wordpress a lot better. - Updated Carl’s Website & Blog Merged - May 6, 2022 [Carl's Blog] (Original: September 18, 2020)
Carl merged his Woodturning Website and Blog on On 9/15/2020. They now use the same Wordpress Blog platform hosted by GoDaddy. - Updated Leaner, Meaner & Faster - May 6, 2022 [Carl's Blog] (Original: January 22, 2022)
Carl's Website and Blog are now Leaner and Faster. New faster web server. Downsized and moved all photos to be inside of Wordpress. - New Pinterest Gallery of Carl’s Wood Art - March 9, 2022 [Carl's Blog]Check out Carl's new Pinterest Photo Gallery of his Wood Art. Over 300 items with a user friendly front end interface to Pinterest.
- Use Blog Search Box - April 12, 2024 [Carl's Blog]
Carl' recommends using the "Search Box" on his blog or "All Posts by Category" blog page to find things on his blog or Google. - Website & Blog Moved to SiteGround - May 8, 2022 [Carl's Blog]
On 5/6/2022, Carl moved his www.carlford.us Website & Blog from GoDaddy to SiteGround. He will be deleting www.carlford.info. Use www.carlford.us.
Carl's Blueprints (16) [category/carls-blueprints]
- Updated A Modern Lamp for any Table - December 31, 2023 [Carl's Blueprints] (Original: August 1, 2021)Link to Carl's "A Modern Lamp for any Table" AAW magazine article PDF. How to turn a wooden lamp that looks great! A skill building project.
Carl's Articles, Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Projects
- Air Dryer Rotator - April 13, 2025 [Carl's Blueprints]
Carl has developed a forced air drying method that uses fans and the "Air Dryer Rotator" shown here. It allows him to sand hollow forms and bowls ON THE LATHE while they are still round. - Carl’s 4x7x2 Sharpening Jigs - November 27, 2022 [Carl's Blueprints]
Carl's "Set It and Forget It" 4x7x2 Sharpening Jigs System makes sharpening woodturning gouges QUICK and EASY! 3 Vari-Grind jigs are converted to 3 CUSTOM sharpening jigs.Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Jigs, Popular, Tools Jigs
- Updated Carl’s Carving Stand - January 29, 2026 [Carl's Blueprints] (Original: December 27, 2021)
Carl's Carving Stand is bare bones simple and works good! You can make your own. It allows you to easily carve any piece of work attached to a wood lathe chuck or faceplate.Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Carving
- Carl’s Chainsaw Bench (Horizontal) - June 19, 2020 [Carl's Blueprints]
Carl's chainsaw bench is built like a tank. For woodturners. It was designed to make things safer. Photos & plan PDF. - Carl’s DIY Scraper Burnisher - November 6, 2024 [Carl's Blueprints]
Carl created his own "Scraper Burnisher for Turners" with a 10 degree pin. Why? Because, the well known Veritas one sells for to much money. - Updated Carl’s Hand Held Laser Depth Gauge - November 7, 2024 [Carl's Blueprints] (Original: December 26, 2022)
Carl uses his DIY Hand Held Laser Depth Gauge to show the depth of the inside bottom on the outside of vases, hollow forms and bowls. Am I deep enough? Can I go deeper? Have I gone to deep? - Carl’s Jam Chucks - January 22, 2023 [Carl's Blueprints]
Carl likes jam chucks made out of 3/4" plywood and PVC pipe couplings. Carl's jam chucks are Drum Chucks that you can be used with or with out vacuum. How to make your own.Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Chucks
- Carl’s Overhead Light Bar (and Camera Bar) - November 21, 2023 [Carl's Blueprints]
Carl has discovered that an Overhead Light Bar with magnetically attached LED lights is the best lathe lighting solution. Why? 1. Let there be light anywhere! 2. EASY to REPOSITION lights! 3. Never in the way! 4. No shake! 5. Low cost DIY solution.Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Tools Lathes, Tools Misc, Tools Studio
- Updated Carl’s Sanding Backup Pads - November 16, 2025 [Carl's Blueprints] (Original: January 31, 2023)
Carl likes Sanding Backup Pads (mandrels) that are thin, low profile and HARD. He makes his own out of 1/4" plywood and 1/4" flat head bolts. He attaches firm and soft foam interface pads to make his hard backup pad softer as needed.Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Sanding
- Updated Carl’s Slip On Custom Centering Cones - January 31, 2025 [Carl's Blueprints] (Original: April 14, 2023)Carl now uses "slip on" custom UHMW cones. Slip on cones are better! They are easier to make and they are easier to use. Why? Because, they just slip on!
Carl's Articles, Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools
- Updated Carl’s Tool Rest Design - February 6, 2026 [Carl's Blueprints] (Original: May 29, 2020)
Carl prefers, woodturning tools rests with a 1/2" wide, almost flat area on top of the tool rest. Like his VB36 tool rests. Photos and plan PDF.Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools
- Carl’s Vertical Chainsaw Bench - April 21, 2025 [Carl's Blueprints]
Carl's Vertical Chainsaw Bench is like a big C-Clamp. He uses it to make things sort of round (octagon shape) before he mounts them on the lathe. He uses it to cut the corners off of his bowl blanks and hollow form blanks. - Updated Golden Ratio Calipers - April 1, 2022 [Carl's Blueprints] (Original: March 13, 2022)
Carl made a set of "Golden Ratio Calipers". He likes to use the "Golden Ratio" (1.618…) when turning hollow forms and wide rim plates. It allows him to create things with pleasing proportions found in nature. - Updated More Bosch Stabilizer Holes – SendCutSend - February 20, 2026 [Carl's Blueprints] (Original: February 23, 2026)
Carl added 9 more fulcrum pin holes to his Trent Bosch Hollowing Tool Stabilizer. Now there is always a hole in the right location! This really saves time and makes hollowing a lot more fun! His new version can be ordered from SendCutSend.Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's Tools, Great Ideas, Tools Hollowing, Turning Tools
- Updated Oneway Jaw Jigs - February 4, 2026 [Carl's Blueprints] (Original: September 29, 2021)
Carl's Tenon Size and Hole Size jigs for the Oneway Stronghold Chuck with #2 or #3 profiled jaws.Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's For Students, Carl's Jigs, Tools Chucks
Carl's Demos (13) [category/carls-demos]
- Airbrushed Wood Dyes & Web Fx Paint Demo - September 9, 2019 [Carl's Demos]
Link to Carl's PDF handout for Nutmeg “Airbushed Wood Dyes and Web-FxPaint Demo” on 9/9/2019 - Antique Candlestick Demo - February 28, 2014 [Carl's Demos]
Link to Carl's PDF handout for "Antique Candlesticks" demo. Turning new Antique Candlesticks is a great way to improve your spindle turning skills and use up scraps of wood. - Big, Bold & Fast Surface Decoration Demo - December 7, 2018 [Carl's Demos]
Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "Big, Bold & Fast Surface Decoration" demo. The surface decoration techniques that Carl learned from Clay Foster in a June 2018 class with John Jordan and Clay Foster. - Candle Dish Demo or Class - May 8, 2010 [Carl's Demos]
Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "Candle Dish" project demo. Turning a dish style candle stick holder is a great little project. - Updated Great Polyurethane Finishes - November 29, 2019 [Carl's Demos] (Original: January 10, 2013)
Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "Great Polyurethane Finishes" demo. Do you want to learn how to get a great tough “Baby Bottom Smooth” finish with only 2 coats of Polyurethane? - Intro to Woodturning Public Demo - April 26, 2009 [Carl's Demos]
Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "Intro to Woodturning" demo. What is Woodturing? Why is it fun? What do I need to known to get into woodturning? - Live Demos at 2022 Totally Turning - March 18, 2022 [Carl's Demos]Carl will be demonstrating live at 2022 Totally Turning Symposium in Saratoga Springs, NY on Saturday and Sunday, March 26 & 27, 2022.
- Updated Munro Hollower Demo - September 4, 2020 [Carl's Demos] (Original: April 26, 2018)
Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "Munro Hollower" demo. The Munro Hollower2 is a great tool for making vases and hollow forms. Tips and tricks that will allow you to hit the ground running. - Natural Edge Bowls Demo - July 16, 2009 [Carl's Demos]
Link to Carl's PDF handout for "Natural Edge Bowls" demo. How to turn natural edge bowls using the versatile David Ellsworth Signature Gouge. And Carl's step by step Bowl Turning Process (Cut Edge and Natural Edge). - Owl Plaque Demo or Class - November 6, 2010 [Carl's Demos]
Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "Owl Plaque" demo or class. How to turn a cute Owl Plaque just in time for Christmas. - Painting On The Lathe For Dummies Demo - August 18, 2008 [Carl's Demos]
Link to Carl's PDF handout for "Painting On the Lathe" demo. Painting with the lathe running is easy! It is a great way to spice up and make beautiful artwork out of boring cheap wood. - Updated Small Vases & Hollow Forms Demo - September 4, 2020 [Carl's Demos] (Original: June 8, 2011)
Link to Carl's PDF handout for "Small Vases & Hollow Forms" demo. Turning small vases is a great low stress way to learn how to create hollow forms and to experiment with shapes and surface decorations. - The Detail Gouge Demo or Class - January 25, 2010 [Carl's Demos]
Link to Carl's PDF handout for "Detail Gouge" demo. A detail gouge is the only tool you need for spindle turning. It is an easy to use. Easy to learn. It produces clean cuts like a spindle gouge or skew without the nasty catches.
Carl's DXF Files (7) [category/carls-dxf-files]
- Updated Carl’s Tool Rest Design - February 6, 2026 [Carl's DXF Files] (Original: May 29, 2020)Carl prefers, woodturning tools rests with a 1/2" wide, almost flat area on top of the tool rest. Like his VB36 tool rests. Photos and plan PDF.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools
- Drawing Complex Shapes for SendCutSend - January 23, 2026 [Carl's DXF Files]
Carl shows how to draw MULTIPLE shapes (rectangles, circles, etc.) and then merge them to create a single complex shape that he can send to SendCutSend. - How To Order a Part from SendCutSend - January 30, 2026 [Carl's DXF Files]
The Step by Step process that Carl uses to order custom parts from SendCutSend on the web. How to send DXF files to SendCutSend. - Updated More Bosch Stabilizer Holes – SendCutSend - February 20, 2026 [Carl's DXF Files] (Original: February 23, 2026)Carl added 9 more fulcrum pin holes to his Trent Bosch Hollowing Tool Stabilizer. Now there is always a hole in the right location! This really saves time and makes hollowing a lot more fun! His new version can be ordered from SendCutSend.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's Tools, Great Ideas, Tools Hollowing, Turning Tools
- Updated Oneway Jaw Jigs - February 4, 2026 [Carl's DXF Files] (Original: September 29, 2021)Carl's Tenon Size and Hole Size jigs for the Oneway Stronghold Chuck with #2 or #3 profiled jaws.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's For Students, Carl's Jigs, Tools Chucks
- OpenOffice Draw to DXF File for SendCutSend - January 30, 2026 [Carl's DXF Files]
Carl uses this WACKY process to draw CUSTOM parts in OpenOffice Draw and then create DXF (.dxf) files for SendCutSend. - Updated SC1 & SC2 Mini 4 Jaw Scroll Chucks - February 13, 2026 [Carl's DXF Files] (Original: March 10, 2023)
Carl really likes the new Record Power (brand) Mini SC1 & SC2 4 Jaw Scroll Chucks. They are high quality chucks that work great on small things.
Carl's For Students (66) [category/carls-students]
Resources, Sources, Handouts, Tools, etc for Carl's Students.
- Updated 1/4″ Die Grinders - August 20, 2023 [Carl's For Students] (Original: April 19, 2023)
1/4" Die Grinders that Carl owns and recommends. Big 1/4" shaft carving burs work best in an electric die grinder. - Updated A Modern Lamp for any Table - December 31, 2023 [Carl's For Students] (Original: August 1, 2021)Link to Carl's "A Modern Lamp for any Table" AAW magazine article PDF. How to turn a wooden lamp that looks great! A skill building project.
Carl's Articles, Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Projects
- Airbrushed Wood Dyes & Web Fx Paint Demo - September 9, 2019 [Carl's For Students]Link to Carl's PDF handout for Nutmeg “Airbushed Wood Dyes and Web-FxPaint Demo” on 9/9/2019
- Antique Candlestick Demo - February 28, 2014 [Carl's For Students]Link to Carl's PDF handout for "Antique Candlesticks" demo. Turning new Antique Candlesticks is a great way to improve your spindle turning skills and use up scraps of wood.
- Banjo-Mounted Hair Dryer - December 9, 2022 [Carl's For Students]When I paint turned items on the lathe, I like to dry the paint faster with a hair dryer. Hand-holding the hair dryer would be tedious, so I made a tool post that holds the hair dryer for me.
- Big, Bold & Fast Surface Decoration Demo - December 7, 2018 [Carl's For Students]Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "Big, Bold & Fast Surface Decoration" demo. The surface decoration techniques that Carl learned from Clay Foster in a June 2018 class with John Jordan and Clay Foster.
- Updated Bosch Stabilizer Improvements - August 4, 2024 [Carl's For Students] (Original: May 3, 2021)
Three small quick and easy improvements to Trent Bosch Hollowing Tool Stabilizer. - Updated Bosch Stabilizer Storage – Bungee Cords - May 5, 2025 [Carl's For Students] (Original: August 4, 2024)
Carl now uses Bungee Cords to secure his Trent Bosch Stabilizer when storing it. Thus, it is easy to handle. It does NOT unfold and flop around. - Updated Bowl Gouge Cleaning Wheel - April 17, 2023 [Carl's For Students] (Original: October 17, 2022)Carl cleans his bowl gouges with a 3" nylon wheel attached to the side if his grinder when turning green wood. It is quick and easy!
Carl's Articles, Carl's For Students, Great Ideas, Tools Machines
- Burnishing Tool for Wood Lathe - February 27, 2022 [Carl's For Students]
Carl uses a home made burnisher to burnish the textures that he creates with his Sorby Spiraling and Texture Tool. Making a burnisher is easy and cheap. - Carl’s 4x7x2 Sharpening Jigs - November 27, 2022 [Carl's For Students]Carl's "Set It and Forget It" 4x7x2 Sharpening Jigs System makes sharpening woodturning gouges QUICK and EASY! 3 Vari-Grind jigs are converted to 3 CUSTOM sharpening jigs.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Jigs, Popular, Tools Jigs
- Updated Carl’s Carving Stand - January 29, 2026 [Carl's For Students] (Original: December 27, 2021)Carl's Carving Stand is bare bones simple and works good! You can make your own. It allows you to easily carve any piece of work attached to a wood lathe chuck or faceplate.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Carving
- Carl’s Chainsaw Bench (Horizontal) - June 19, 2020 [Carl's For Students]Carl's chainsaw bench is built like a tank. For woodturners. It was designed to make things safer. Photos & plan PDF.
- Carl’s Grinder Stand - May 18, 2021 [Carl's For Students]
Carl likes having the center of his grinder wheel 46" off the floor on a stand that he can easily move around his studio. - Updated Carl’s Hand Held Laser Depth Gauge - November 7, 2024 [Carl's For Students] (Original: December 26, 2022)Carl uses his DIY Hand Held Laser Depth Gauge to show the depth of the inside bottom on the outside of vases, hollow forms and bowls. Am I deep enough? Can I go deeper? Have I gone to deep?
- Carl’s Index Wheels – How to Make - September 19, 2022 [Carl's For Students]
How to print and make Carl's enhanced Al Stirt style index wheels. Carl's index wheels have lots of markings that make them easy to use. Red dots on every other division, etc. Red, green, blue, etc highlights on 8", 9", 10", etc diameter circles. - Carl’s Index Wheels – How To Use - September 19, 2022 [Carl's For Students]
Carl shows how he sketches a pattern and replicates it using his Al Stirt style index wheels. Al Stirt's idea and method. Carl's enhanced index wheels. - Carl’s Jam Chucks - January 22, 2023 [Carl's For Students]Carl likes jam chucks made out of 3/4" plywood and PVC pipe couplings. Carl's jam chucks are Drum Chucks that you can be used with or with out vacuum. How to make your own.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Chucks
- Carl’s Kiln Dried Wood Process - August 8, 2022 [Carl's For Students]
Carl documents the blank cutting process he uses to get the most out of hardwood kiln dried boards for woodturning. - Updated Carl’s Modern Hollowing Tools 2024 - May 4, 2025 [Carl's For Students] (Original: October 13, 2024)
Carl's hollowing tools for Woodturners. Start small. Consider the "Simple Hollowing System". Go with Trent Bosch "3/4" Hollowing Tool Stabilizer" with Visualizer.Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Hollowing, Turning Tools
- Updated Carl’s Modern Woodturning Tool Set 2018 - October 13, 2024 [Carl's For Students] (Original: February 13, 2015)
Carl's suggestions for a MODERN set of woodturning tools for new turners. A set for mostly bowls, hollow forms, and whimsy. With a little spindle turning here and there. - Carl’s Overhead Light Bar (and Camera Bar) - November 21, 2023 [Carl's For Students]Carl has discovered that an Overhead Light Bar with magnetically attached LED lights is the best lathe lighting solution. Why? 1. Let there be light anywhere! 2. EASY to REPOSITION lights! 3. Never in the way! 4. No shake! 5. Low cost DIY solution.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Tools Lathes, Tools Misc, Tools Studio
- Updated Carl’s Sanding Backup Pads - November 16, 2025 [Carl's For Students] (Original: January 31, 2023)Carl likes Sanding Backup Pads (mandrels) that are thin, low profile and HARD. He makes his own out of 1/4" plywood and 1/4" flat head bolts. He attaches firm and soft foam interface pads to make his hard backup pad softer as needed.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Sanding
- Updated Carl’s Slip On Custom Centering Cones - January 31, 2025 [Carl's For Students] (Original: April 14, 2023)Carl now uses "slip on" custom UHMW cones. Slip on cones are better! They are easier to make and they are easier to use. Why? Because, they just slip on!
Carl's Articles, Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools
- Updated Carl’s Thread On Custom Centering Cones - April 14, 2023 [Carl's For Students] (Original: January 1, 2008)Link to Carl's "Custom Centering Cones" AAW magazine article PDF. What they are. Why live center cones are useful. How to make your own out of UHMW.
- Updated Carl’s Tool Rest Design - February 6, 2026 [Carl's For Students] (Original: May 29, 2020)Carl prefers, woodturning tools rests with a 1/2" wide, almost flat area on top of the tool rest. Like his VB36 tool rests. Photos and plan PDF.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools
- Updated Carl’s Travel Woodturning Tool Set - September 23, 2024 [Carl's For Students] (Original: December 2, 2018)
Carl's Travel Woodturning Tool Set. A set that can be EASILY take to demos, club meetings and symposiums. Carl also recommends this set for new turners.Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Great Ideas, Popular, Turning Tools
- Carl’s Turntable for Finishing - January 1, 2022 [Carl's For Students]
Carl made his own turntable. He often uses it when painting and finishing things. It really helps him get a nice even finish on things with out finger prints. - Carl’s Vertical Chainsaw Bench - April 21, 2025 [Carl's For Students]Carl's Vertical Chainsaw Bench is like a big C-Clamp. He uses it to make things sort of round (octagon shape) before he mounts them on the lathe. He uses it to cut the corners off of his bowl blanks and hollow form blanks.
- Carl’s Woodturning Tool Handles 2024 - October 13, 2024 [Carl's For Students]
Carl's handles for Woodturners. Carl discusses Handles he likes and does not like on his Woodturning Tools. - Carl’s Modern Woodturning Tool Set 2024 - October 13, 2024 [Carl's For Students]
Carl's suggestions for a MODERN set of woodturning tools for new turners. Updated 10/2024. A set for mostly bowls, hollow forms, and whimsy. With a little spindle turning here and there. - Updated Crown Verses Sorby Spiraling & Texturing Tool - February 27, 2022 [Carl's For Students] (Original: April 13, 2020)
Carl likes the Crown Spiraling tool better than the Sorby. Why? Wheel comparison chart. How to add a knob to improve the Crown or Sorby tool. - Updated Custom Tool Handles - May 1, 2024 [Carl's For Students] (Original: May 10, 2015)Link to Carl's "Custom Tool Handles" AAW magazine article PDF. How to make your own Custom Tool Handles from PVC Pipe and Heat Shrinkable Fabric or Elastic Mesh Sleeve.
- Updated D-Way Negative Rake Scraper - February 24, 2026 [Carl's For Students] (Original: April 23, 2022)
Carl likes and recommends D-Way Tools (brand) 1" Long & Strong Curved NEG Rake Scraper BM-NRS-34-LSC. - DIY Magnetic Light Base - November 11, 2023 [Carl's For Students]
Carl likes to add his own magnetic bases to his IKEA Jansjo or QUANS gooseneck LED lights. He has LED lights on magnetic bases all over his studio. On his lathes, bandsaws, drill press, and grinders. On the dust hood in his carving area, etc. - Updated Essential Books & DVDs for Students - May 31, 2024 [Carl's For Students] (Original: March 13, 2015)Carl's recommended and Must Have Woodturning Books and DVDs. By topic: Spindle Turning, Bowl Turning, Project Books, Picture Books, Hollow Forms, etc.
- Updated Face Shields - December 10, 2022 [Carl's For Students] (Original: April 22, 2019)
Carl reviews face shields. Face shields are HIGHLY PERSONAL. Therefore you should try before you buy. What are your options? Powered vs non powered. Etc. - Faceplate Set Up for Woodturning - May 18, 2025 [Carl's For Students]
Carl modifies his woodturning faceplates. He countersinks the screw holes and center of the faceplate. He also adds set screws. - Updated Get A Grip – Add Elastic Mesh To Handles - September 11, 2024 [Carl's For Students] (Original: November 7, 2018)Link to Carl's "Get A Grip" AAW magazine "tips section" PDF. Adding a layer of elastic mesh sleeve to a tool handle is a cheap and easy way to get a better grip.
- Gloves for Woodturners - May 24, 2025 [Carl's For Students]
Carl recommends good thin "High Dexterity Performance Work Gloves" for male woodturners with big and medium sized hands. He recommends similar Gardening Gloves for women with small hands. You MUST cut the finger and thumb tips off of gloves for SAFETY! - Updated Golden Ratio Calipers - April 1, 2022 [Carl's For Students] (Original: March 13, 2022)Carl made a set of "Golden Ratio Calipers". He likes to use the "Golden Ratio" (1.618…) when turning hollow forms and wide rim plates. It allows him to create things with pleasing proportions found in nature.
- Updated Gouge Sharpening Templates - October 22, 2024 [Carl's For Students] (Original: May 17, 2013)
Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "Sharpening Templates". For Ellsworth, Stirt, Jordan, and Hosaluk gouge grinds. Use with Wolverine and Ellsworth jigs. - Guitar String Wire Burners - January 13, 2021 [Carl's For Students]
Quick Tip: If you use Acoustic Guitar Wire Burners to friction burn lines with the lathe running they work better than Piano Wire. What size wire? How to make your own. - Lathe Accessories for a New Turner - February 5, 2019 [Carl's For Students]
Carl's suggestions for a new woodturner. Join the AAW, Take a Class, Turning Tools, Faceplates, Drill Chuck, 4 Jaw Chuck, and Turning Smocks. - Updated Lathe Shower Curtains - May 14, 2025 [Carl's For Students] (Original: March 26, 2015)
Tip: CLOTH Shower Curtains are great for quick clean up. Make your own hooks and track (EMT pipe) to minimize the cost. Cloth! No plastic! - Updated Martel 4 Way Caliper - April 14, 2024 [Carl's For Students] (Original: October 25, 2020)
Carl recommends the Martel 4 Way Caliper. Expensive and worth every penny! The unique shape of the Martel calipers makes them really useful for measuring the depth of things (plates, bowls and hollow forms) while they are still on the chuck! - Updated Mounting Plates and Shallow Bowls - September 8, 2023 [Carl's For Students] (Original: November 16, 2019)Link to Carl's "Drilled Chucking Recess" AAW magazine "tips section" PDF. A 2-1/2″ diameter hole is an easy and secure way to mount blanks for plates and shallow bowls on the lathe.
Carl's Articles, Carl's For Students, Great Ideas, Tools Chucks
- Natural Edge Bowls Demo - July 16, 2009 [Carl's For Students]Link to Carl's PDF handout for "Natural Edge Bowls" demo. How to turn natural edge bowls using the versatile David Ellsworth Signature Gouge. And Carl's step by step Bowl Turning Process (Cut Edge and Natural Edge).
- Updated New Power Carving Burs 2021 - April 22, 2023 [Carl's For Students] (Original: November 21, 2021)
Carl discovers and reviews Manpa Concave Eye Cutters, Manpa Mini Triangle & Round Cutters, Rotary Chisels, and Maillefer Concave Cutter Burrs. - Oneway Big Bite Spur Center - May 8, 2020 [Carl's For Students]
Carl recommends the “Oneway Big Bite Spur” center for driving big things. Big blanks for bowls or logs for hollow forms. It only costs around $20 on 5/5/2020. - Updated Oneway Jaw Jigs - February 4, 2026 [Carl's For Students] (Original: September 29, 2021)Carl's Tenon Size and Hole Size jigs for the Oneway Stronghold Chuck with #2 or #3 profiled jaws.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's For Students, Carl's Jigs, Tools Chucks
- Updated Paint Brushes & Acrylic Paint - March 17, 2022 [Carl's For Students] (Original: October 9, 2021)
Carl recommends paint brushes and acrylic paint for painting on the wood lathe with the lathe running. - Painting On The Lathe For Dummies Demo - August 18, 2008 [Carl's For Students]Link to Carl's PDF handout for "Painting On the Lathe" demo. Painting with the lathe running is easy! It is a great way to spice up and make beautiful artwork out of boring cheap wood.
- Pistol Style Airbrush - September 12, 2020 [Carl's For Students]
Carl recommends a Pistol Style Airbrush for people who have trouble with a trigger on top style airbrush. - Rotary V-Cutter (V-Tool Carving Chisel) - August 13, 2023 [Carl's For Students]
Carl's new Rotary Carbide V-Cutter is a real game changer. It is like 10 times faster than a good old hand held V-tool or a V-tool in a reciprocating power carver. It is easy to use and control. - Rotating T-Square - August 5, 2023 [Carl's For Students]Carl's Rotating “T-square.” Unlike a traditional T-square, whose head registers on a straightedge, this one features a circle that registers in the bowl he has turned. This T-square allows Carl to draw evenly spaced lines and replicate patterns easily.
- Updated Round Ball Carving Burs - May 12, 2025 [Carl's For Students] (Original: November 22, 2020)
Good, but not great, round ball carving burs from Rio Grande. 3/16" and bigger. - Sanding Cheat Sheet - April 1, 2020 [Carl's For Students]
Carl's "Sanding Cheat Sheet" ties all of his sanding blog entries together. Wet Wood? Then use ... Already Finished? Spindle Turning? Bowl or Hollow Form? - Screw Eyes for Christmas Ornaments - December 16, 2023 [Carl's For Students]
Carl likes to make his own custom screw eyes for my Christmas Tree Ornaments out of 20 gauge brass wire. His wire screw eyes are small and elegant! - Updated Shopmade Collet Chuck - September 4, 2021 [Carl's For Students] (Original: November 19, 2018)Link to Carl's "Shopmade Collet Chuck" AAW magazine article PDF. How to make your own custom collet chucks out of UHMW plastic.
- Updated Silky Landscape Saw - December 23, 2025 [Carl's For Students] (Original: May 10, 2022)
Quick Tip: Carl recommends a Silky Gomboy 210 Landscape Saw for woodturning. He uses it to cut off the tenon on woodturnings. - Updated So you want to buy a lathe? A real lathe? - September 10, 2020 [Carl's For Students] (Original: July 31, 2015)
Carl's unbiased comparison, review and recommendation of Woodturning Lathes for people who are interested in purchasing a real lathe. Powermatic, Oneway, Vicmarc, Robust, Laguna, Jet, and Nova lathes. 110 vs 220 volts. Lathes that Carl does not recommend. - Updated Turning Smocks & Low Cost Alternatives - March 13, 2026 [Carl's For Students] (Original: February 28, 2019)
Carl reviews Turning Smocks and suggests some low cost alternatives. Get one before nature calls or "She Who Must be Obeyed" outlaws woodturning due to shavings in the house. - Updated Wolverine Grinder Jig Setup - June 2, 2025 [Carl's For Students] (Original: April 8, 2020)
Carl recommends the Wolverine Grinder Jig. It is the de facto standard! Here is how Carl recommends setting up your Wolverine. - Updated Woodburners & Pyrography - October 30, 2025 [Carl's For Students] (Original: April 28, 2013)Carl's take on the best Woodburners, Tips, & Books for woodturners. What he recommends for his students.
- Workshop Blower for Cleanup - October 15, 2018 [Carl's For Students]
Quick Tip: A little blower is great for quick clean up. I just blow all the saw dust and shavings off of my lathes onto the floor and then sweep or vacuum them up.Carl's For Students, Dust Collection, Great Ideas, Popular, Tools Machines
Carl's Jigs (10) [category/carls-jigs]
- 2×4 Harbor Freight Airbrush Holder - April 30, 2022 [Carl's Jigs]
Quick Tip: 2x4 airbrush holder for cheap Harbor Freight Airbrushes. Works great. You can easily move it around and store it on a shelf. - Banjo-Mounted Hair Dryer - December 9, 2022 [Carl's Jigs]When I paint turned items on the lathe, I like to dry the paint faster with a hair dryer. Hand-holding the hair dryer would be tedious, so I made a tool post that holds the hair dryer for me.
- Carl’s 4x7x2 Sharpening Jigs - November 27, 2022 [Carl's Jigs]Carl's "Set It and Forget It" 4x7x2 Sharpening Jigs System makes sharpening woodturning gouges QUICK and EASY! 3 Vari-Grind jigs are converted to 3 CUSTOM sharpening jigs.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Jigs, Popular, Tools Jigs
- Updated Carl’s Hand Held Laser Depth Gauge - November 7, 2024 [Carl's Jigs] (Original: December 26, 2022)Carl uses his DIY Hand Held Laser Depth Gauge to show the depth of the inside bottom on the outside of vases, hollow forms and bowls. Am I deep enough? Can I go deeper? Have I gone to deep?
- Carl’s Index Wheels – How to Make - September 19, 2022 [Carl's Jigs]How to print and make Carl's enhanced Al Stirt style index wheels. Carl's index wheels have lots of markings that make them easy to use. Red dots on every other division, etc. Red, green, blue, etc highlights on 8", 9", 10", etc diameter circles.
- Carl’s Index Wheels – How To Use - September 19, 2022 [Carl's Jigs]Carl shows how he sketches a pattern and replicates it using his Al Stirt style index wheels. Al Stirt's idea and method. Carl's enhanced index wheels.
- Fixed Calipers Improve Accuracy - June 20, 2025 [Carl's Jigs]Carl likes to use home made fixed calipers made out of 1/4" plywood. They are more accurate than pointed metal calipers.
- Updated Gouge Sharpening Templates - October 22, 2024 [Carl's Jigs] (Original: May 17, 2013)Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "Sharpening Templates". For Ellsworth, Stirt, Jordan, and Hosaluk gouge grinds. Use with Wolverine and Ellsworth jigs.
- Updated Oneway Jaw Jigs - February 4, 2026 [Carl's Jigs] (Original: September 29, 2021)Carl's Tenon Size and Hole Size jigs for the Oneway Stronghold Chuck with #2 or #3 profiled jaws.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's For Students, Carl's Jigs, Tools Chucks
- PVC Cutting Tip Covers - February 17, 2025 [Carl's Jigs]Carl likes to cover the cutting tips of his turning tools when not in use for safety reasons. He makes covers out of PVC pipe.
Carl's Studio (6) [category/carls-studio]
- A Day in My “Winter 2018 Studio Class” - July 9, 2018 [Carl's Studio]
Feel good photos of students and their work in Carl Ford's Winter 2018 Studio Class. - Updated Carl’s Photo Studio 2018 - October 6, 2021 [Carl's Studio] (Original: February 11, 2019)
Carl's photo studio setup. He started using it in 2018 and he is very happy with it. He uses big soft box lights with easy to stow graduated black to white background. - Updated Carl’s Studio July 2015 - March 2, 2023 [Carl's Studio] (Original: August 2, 2015)
Photos of Carl's Woodturning Studio. A picture is worth a thousand words. - Carl’s Woodturning Workshop Class - October 9, 2019 [Carl's Studio]
“Class Information, Suggested Projects for Beginners and the Fine Print” for Carl's long running and very popular Woodturning Workshop Class. In Carl's Studio in Poughkeepsie NY. - Happy Students Winter 2022 - October 13, 2022 [Carl's Studio]
Photos of GREAT projects recently completed by the students in my Winter 2022 class in my studio on Thursdays. - Winter 2020 Studio Class - January 17, 2020 [Carl's Studio]
My Winter 2020 Studio Classes got off to a great start his week. Here are some photos of Tom Gorbutt decorating the top of his cake stand with spin art.
Carl's Tools (32) [category/carls-tools]
- Air Dryer Rotator - April 13, 2025 [Carl's Tools]Carl has developed a forced air drying method that uses fans and the "Air Dryer Rotator" shown here. It allows him to sand hollow forms and bowls ON THE LATHE while they are still round.
- Burnishing Tool for Wood Lathe - February 27, 2022 [Carl's Tools]Carl uses a home made burnisher to burnish the textures that he creates with his Sorby Spiraling and Texture Tool. Making a burnisher is easy and cheap.
- Updated Carl’s Carving Stand - January 29, 2026 [Carl's Tools] (Original: December 27, 2021)Carl's Carving Stand is bare bones simple and works good! You can make your own. It allows you to easily carve any piece of work attached to a wood lathe chuck or faceplate.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Carving
- Carl’s Chainsaw Bench (Horizontal) - June 19, 2020 [Carl's Tools]Carl's chainsaw bench is built like a tank. For woodturners. It was designed to make things safer. Photos & plan PDF.
- Carl’s DIY Scraper Burnisher - November 6, 2024 [Carl's Tools]Carl created his own "Scraper Burnisher for Turners" with a 10 degree pin. Why? Because, the well known Veritas one sells for to much money.
- Updated Carl’s Downdraft Paint Booth - December 15, 2023 [Carl's Tools] (Original: August 7, 2020)
Carl's downdraft paint booth has eliminated most paint fumes in his studio They all go outside! Paint is sucked down onto Carl's work. - Carl’s Grinder Stand - May 18, 2021 [Carl's Tools]Carl likes having the center of his grinder wheel 46" off the floor on a stand that he can easily move around his studio.
- Carl’s Jam Chucks - January 22, 2023 [Carl's Tools]Carl likes jam chucks made out of 3/4" plywood and PVC pipe couplings. Carl's jam chucks are Drum Chucks that you can be used with or with out vacuum. How to make your own.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Chucks
- Updated Carl’s Modern Hollowing Tools 2024 - May 4, 2025 [Carl's Tools] (Original: October 13, 2024)Carl's hollowing tools for Woodturners. Start small. Consider the "Simple Hollowing System". Go with Trent Bosch "3/4" Hollowing Tool Stabilizer" with Visualizer.
Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Hollowing, Turning Tools
- Updated Carl’s Modern Woodturning Tool Set 2018 - October 13, 2024 [Carl's Tools] (Original: February 13, 2015)Carl's suggestions for a MODERN set of woodturning tools for new turners. A set for mostly bowls, hollow forms, and whimsy. With a little spindle turning here and there.
- Updated Carl’s Sanding Backup Pads - November 16, 2025 [Carl's Tools] (Original: January 31, 2023)Carl likes Sanding Backup Pads (mandrels) that are thin, low profile and HARD. He makes his own out of 1/4" plywood and 1/4" flat head bolts. He attaches firm and soft foam interface pads to make his hard backup pad softer as needed.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Sanding
- Updated Carl’s Slip On Custom Centering Cones - January 31, 2025 [Carl's Tools] (Original: April 14, 2023)Carl now uses "slip on" custom UHMW cones. Slip on cones are better! They are easier to make and they are easier to use. Why? Because, they just slip on!
Carl's Articles, Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools
- Updated Carl’s Thread On Custom Centering Cones - April 14, 2023 [Carl's Tools] (Original: January 1, 2008)Link to Carl's "Custom Centering Cones" AAW magazine article PDF. What they are. Why live center cones are useful. How to make your own out of UHMW.
- Updated Carl’s Tool Rest Design - February 6, 2026 [Carl's Tools] (Original: May 29, 2020)Carl prefers, woodturning tools rests with a 1/2" wide, almost flat area on top of the tool rest. Like his VB36 tool rests. Photos and plan PDF.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools
- Updated Carl’s Travel Woodturning Tool Set - September 23, 2024 [Carl's Tools] (Original: December 2, 2018)Carl's Travel Woodturning Tool Set. A set that can be EASILY take to demos, club meetings and symposiums. Carl also recommends this set for new turners.
Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Great Ideas, Popular, Turning Tools
- Carl’s Turntable for Finishing - January 1, 2022 [Carl's Tools]Carl made his own turntable. He often uses it when painting and finishing things. It really helps him get a nice even finish on things with out finger prints.
- Updated Carl’s TV Hollowing Rig - September 4, 2020 [Carl's Tools] (Original: November 20, 2019)
Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "TV Hollowing" demo. Carl uses a Trent Bosch Hollowing Stabilizer rig with a Rolly Munro cutter head. - Carl’s Vertical Chainsaw Bench - April 21, 2025 [Carl's Tools]Carl's Vertical Chainsaw Bench is like a big C-Clamp. He uses it to make things sort of round (octagon shape) before he mounts them on the lathe. He uses it to cut the corners off of his bowl blanks and hollow form blanks.
- Carl’s Woodturning Tool Handles 2024 - October 13, 2024 [Carl's Tools]Carl's handles for Woodturners. Carl discusses Handles he likes and does not like on his Woodturning Tools.
- Carl’s Modern Woodturning Tool Set 2024 - October 13, 2024 [Carl's Tools]Carl's suggestions for a MODERN set of woodturning tools for new turners. Updated 10/2024. A set for mostly bowls, hollow forms, and whimsy. With a little spindle turning here and there.
- Updated Golden Ratio Calipers - April 1, 2022 [Carl's Tools] (Original: March 13, 2022)Carl made a set of "Golden Ratio Calipers". He likes to use the "Golden Ratio" (1.618…) when turning hollow forms and wide rim plates. It allows him to create things with pleasing proportions found in nature.
- Guitar String Wire Burners - January 13, 2021 [Carl's Tools]Quick Tip: If you use Acoustic Guitar Wire Burners to friction burn lines with the lathe running they work better than Piano Wire. What size wire? How to make your own.
- Handle Added to Simple Hollower - May 4, 2025 [Carl's Tools]
Carl added a handle to his "Simple Hollower". This is how he did it. Now he can use his whole body to make nice hollow form shapes. The way he does, when he is using a bowl gouge with a handle. - Handy Rod for Oneway Live Center - November 12, 2021 [Carl's Tools]
Quick Tip: Carl installs or remove cones on his Oneway Live Center with a HANDY rod attached to his lathe tailstock. - Hollow Concave Cup for Live Center - December 30, 2023 [Carl's Tools]
Carl made a custom Concave Cup Center with a Hole in the middle. It allows him to easily turn finials or Christmas ornaments with out leaving any unwanted impressions on his work. - Mallet and Awl Marking Kit - May 6, 2023 [Carl's Tools]Carl uses a shop made mallet and awl to mark the center of things. As he gets older, he tries to be more careful with his hands. He does not want to develop arthritis,
- Updated More Bosch Stabilizer Holes – SendCutSend - February 20, 2026 [Carl's Tools] (Original: February 23, 2026)Carl added 9 more fulcrum pin holes to his Trent Bosch Hollowing Tool Stabilizer. Now there is always a hole in the right location! This really saves time and makes hollowing a lot more fun! His new version can be ordered from SendCutSend.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's Tools, Great Ideas, Tools Hollowing, Turning Tools
- Updated Octagon Template Cuts Corners - December 27, 2021 [Carl's Tools] (Original: December 28, 2021)Link to Carl's "Octagon Template & Jig" AAW magazine "tips section" PDF. Carl uses a simple Octagon Template and Jig to cut the corners off of plate or shallow bowl blanks.
- Rotating T-Square - August 5, 2023 [Carl's Tools]Carl's Rotating “T-square.” Unlike a traditional T-square, whose head registers on a straightedge, this one features a circle that registers in the bowl he has turned. This T-square allows Carl to draw evenly spaced lines and replicate patterns easily.
- Sharpening & Buffing Lathe Attachment - February 25, 2022 [Carl's Tools]
Carl created a "Sharpening and Buffing Attachment" for his wood lathe. It is cheap and easy to make. He uses it to sharpen his wood carving gouges and to buff his metal spinning tools. - Updated Short Quick Release Tool Handle - September 8, 2021 [Carl's Tools] (Original: May 15, 2021)
Carl's 10" long Quick Release Tool Handle. A 10" version of the 16" long 5/8" Quick Release Tool Handle made by Jimmy Clewes. Step by step photos. - Updated Vacuum Chucks Demo - September 4, 2020 [Carl's Tools] (Original: January 1, 2006)
Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "Vacuum Chucks" demo. What are they? What are they good for? What do I need to set up my own Vacuum Chuck System? How can I keep the cost down?
Dust Collection (8) [category/dust_collection]
- Air Duster (Mini Blower) for Shop Cleanup - February 22, 2026 [Dust Collection]
Carl uses his NEW Mini Blower (Air Duster) for small clean up jobs in his shop. It is just the right size and power. Better than a big blower or air hose gun. Why? Less dust in the air! - Better Blast Gate Micro Switch - June 19, 2021 [Dust Collection]
Carl has replaced the micro switches on his dust gates with better micro switches from Digi-Key part number LS0851506F045S1A-ND. - Better Floor Sweep - June 12, 2021 [Dust Collection]
Carl likes the Powertec model #70282 floor sweep. Because the handle is EASILY adjustable! No more disagreements with tall students. - Big Gulp Dust Hood - February 2, 2014 [Dust Collection]
Carl recommends the "Big Gulp Dust Hood" from PSI (Penn State Industries). Sold thru Amazon, Rockler, etc. I have tried others and I have made my own. I like the Big Gulp best. - Downspout Guard Catches Errant Sandpaper - December 1, 2025 [Dust Collection]
Carl uses a plastic "Downspout Guard" to catch sandpaper before it gets sucked through his dust collector chute. - Updated Lathe Shower Curtains - May 14, 2025 [Dust Collection] (Original: March 26, 2015)Tip: CLOTH Shower Curtains are great for quick clean up. Make your own hooks and track (EMT pipe) to minimize the cost. Cloth! No plastic!
- Updated Linear Actuator Blast Gate (12v DC) - November 29, 2023 [Dust Collection] (Original: September 6, 2021)
Looking for a cheaper alternative to iVAC Blast Gates? Simple, reliable, easy to install, lowcost? 12 volt DC Linear Actuators are the answer! - Workshop Blower for Cleanup - October 15, 2018 [Dust Collection]Quick Tip: A little blower is great for quick clean up. I just blow all the saw dust and shavings off of my lathes onto the floor and then sweep or vacuum them up.
Carl's For Students, Dust Collection, Great Ideas, Popular, Tools Machines
Finshes (14) [category/finshes]
Paints, Clear Finishes, Airbrushes, etc
- 8” Buffing Wheel, 4” Bowl Buff, and 8” Long Buffing Adapter - November 29, 2019 [Finshes]
Carl's new source for the buffing wheels he recommends in his “Great Polyurethane Finishes" handout. - Updated Blue & Purple Masking Tape - April 7, 2023 [Finshes] (Original: July 26, 2020)
Carl recently started using the new 3M Scotch "Delicate Surface Painter's Tape #2080" Purple masking tape. He likes it. It works good on top of a layer of sealer. - Updated Blue Flex Sanding Disks - November 22, 2025 [Finshes] (Original: November 20, 2014)
Carl likes the “Blue Flex” sanding disk sold by Vince’s Wooden Wonders. He has been using them for the last 4-5 years and is am very happy. - Carl’s Turntable for Finishing - January 1, 2022 [Finshes]Carl made his own turntable. He often uses it when painting and finishing things. It really helps him get a nice even finish on things with out finger prints.
- Good Cheap Masking Tape - September 17, 2021 [Finshes]
Carl recommends Blick brand masking tape from Dick Blick on the web. It is a bit on the thin side but it works good and the price is reasonable. - Updated Great Polyurethane Finishes - November 29, 2019 [Finshes] (Original: January 10, 2013)Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "Great Polyurethane Finishes" demo. Do you want to learn how to get a great tough “Baby Bottom Smooth” finish with only 2 coats of Polyurethane?
- Makeup Sponges for Chroma-Guilt - March 4, 2023 [Finshes]
Makeup Sponges can be used to apply a thin layer of Chroma-Guilt with out getting it into your carved or burned pattern! They work great! - New Mohawk No-Blush Plus Retarder - September 9, 2026 [Finshes]
Mohawk "No Blush Plus Retarder - MS103-0475" can save the day! Or, it can really screw things up if you spray it on to heavy! - Montana Acrylic Markers - March 4, 2023 [Finshes]
Carl uses a 15mm wide Montana Acrylic Marker to paint the edge of his plates and shallow bowls black. - Updated Nylon Mesh Sanding Rolls (aka Synthetic Steel Wool) - August 6, 2024 [Finshes] (Original: September 11, 2019)
Carl's take on Steel Wool. Carl uses Nylon Mesh Rolls from McMaster-Carr. Part numbers for "Carl Ford" Course, Medium and Fine. - Updated Paint Brushes & Acrylic Paint - March 17, 2022 [Finshes] (Original: October 9, 2021)Carl recommends paint brushes and acrylic paint for painting on the wood lathe with the lathe running.
- Painting On The Lathe For Dummies Demo - August 18, 2008 [Finshes]Link to Carl's PDF handout for "Painting On the Lathe" demo. Painting with the lathe running is easy! It is a great way to spice up and make beautiful artwork out of boring cheap wood.
- Pistol Style Airbrush - September 12, 2020 [Finshes]Carl recommends a Pistol Style Airbrush for people who have trouble with a trigger on top style airbrush.
- Wire Hanger Holds Work While Finishing - October 18, 2025 [Finshes]Carl likes to hang things up while I spraying on a clear finish. He use a pieceof stiff clothes hanger wire or RG45 gas welding rod.
Great Ideas (10) [category/great-ideas]
- Air Dryer Rotator - April 13, 2025 [Great Ideas]Carl has developed a forced air drying method that uses fans and the "Air Dryer Rotator" shown here. It allows him to sand hollow forms and bowls ON THE LATHE while they are still round.
- Updated Bowl Gouge Cleaning Wheel - April 17, 2023 [Great Ideas] (Original: October 17, 2022)Carl cleans his bowl gouges with a 3" nylon wheel attached to the side if his grinder when turning green wood. It is quick and easy!
Carl's Articles, Carl's For Students, Great Ideas, Tools Machines
- Updated Carl’s Travel Woodturning Tool Set - September 23, 2024 [Great Ideas] (Original: December 2, 2018)Carl's Travel Woodturning Tool Set. A set that can be EASILY take to demos, club meetings and symposiums. Carl also recommends this set for new turners.
Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Great Ideas, Popular, Turning Tools
- Handy Sandpaper - January 7, 2015 [Great Ideas]
Carl shows how he keeps his sandpaper handy and organized. With 1/8" plywood boards he can hang up and take over to the lathe. Sandpaper organization tips. - Label Your Tools - October 2, 2014 [Great Ideas]
Quick Tip: Add labels to the ferrules of your woodturning tools with the name of tool, and sharpening info. For example "Ellsworth - 2". - Mallet and Awl Marking Kit - May 6, 2023 [Great Ideas]Carl uses a shop made mallet and awl to mark the center of things. As he gets older, he tries to be more careful with his hands. He does not want to develop arthritis,
- Updated More Bosch Stabilizer Holes – SendCutSend - February 20, 2026 [Great Ideas] (Original: February 23, 2026)Carl added 9 more fulcrum pin holes to his Trent Bosch Hollowing Tool Stabilizer. Now there is always a hole in the right location! This really saves time and makes hollowing a lot more fun! His new version can be ordered from SendCutSend.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's Tools, Great Ideas, Tools Hollowing, Turning Tools
- Updated Mounting Plates and Shallow Bowls - September 8, 2023 [Great Ideas] (Original: November 16, 2019)Link to Carl's "Drilled Chucking Recess" AAW magazine "tips section" PDF. A 2-1/2″ diameter hole is an easy and secure way to mount blanks for plates and shallow bowls on the lathe.
Carl's Articles, Carl's For Students, Great Ideas, Tools Chucks
- Reverse The Bosch Stabilizer - June 7, 2025 [Great Ideas]
Carl reverses the lathe banjo and his Trent Bosch Stabilizer when hollowing with the lathe in reverse. The arms on his Stabilizer are then free to move almost completely unimpeded. - Workshop Blower for Cleanup - October 15, 2018 [Great Ideas]Quick Tip: A little blower is great for quick clean up. I just blow all the saw dust and shavings off of my lathes onto the floor and then sweep or vacuum them up.
Carl's For Students, Dust Collection, Great Ideas, Popular, Tools Machines
Lathe Engraver (1) [category/lathe-engraver]
Lathe (Laser) Engraver
- Laser Safety Glasses & Goggles - June 22, 2025 [Lathe Engraver]
Carl found that expensive MCWlaser Laser Safety Goggles rather than Glasses are the way to go. You only get one pair of eyes!
Misc (8) [category/misc]
- 64ths of an Inch Ruler / Table - March 3, 2023 [Misc]This 64ths of an inch ruler/table makes finding the right drill bit easy. You need a drill bit that is a little bigger than 3/4". What size do you need? 49/64" Right?
- Updated Carl’s “MM to Inches” for Woodturners - October 5, 2024 [Misc] (Original: May 28, 2021)Carl often see Woodturners get all twisted up by 1" = 25.4mm. His advice is to forget about the 0.4mm! Carl does the MM to inches conversion in his head using this method.
- Updated Hand Exercisers for Mere Mortals - September 29, 2025 [Misc] (Original: January 20, 2019)Carl recommends Zon (brand) hand exercisers for woodturners who need to improve their hand strength. The Zon ones are good for mere mortals.
- Maple Log Delivery 12/2022 - December 2, 2022 [Misc]
Now this is the way you should have your logs delivered! - Quick Tip: Nuts & Bolts Boxes - July 29, 2024 [Misc]
The recent trend of selling nuts and bolts in plastic bags rather than boxes really frustrates Carl. He purchases little boxes on Amazon for his nuts and bolts to make things easy to find and store. - Retired from IBM - August 31, 2016 [Misc]
Carl voluntarily retired from IBM after 33 years, 2 months and 19 days. He is looking forward to his 2nd career as a full time Studio Woodturner. - Woodturning Mugs - November 13, 2022 [Misc]
Time to think about a new Woodturning Mug for Christmas. - Woodturning Tools – Food For Thought - August 24, 2024 [Misc]
Carl waxes philosophical about how tool trends are impacted by the limited number of woodturners in the woodturning world.
Obsolete (2) [category/obsolete]
- Updated More Bosch Stabilizer Holes – Old – Before SendCutSend - April 6, 2024 [Obsolete] (Original: May 9, 2021)
Carl added 10 more fulcrum pin holes to his Trent Bosch Hollowing Tool Stabilizer. Now there is always a hole in the right location! This really saves time and makes hollowing a lot more fun! This OLD version can NOT ordered from SendCutSend. He also has a new version that CAN be order from SendCutSend. - Updated Stikit Sandpaper - December 16, 2019 [Obsolete] (Original: November 20, 2014)
Carl has changed to use sandpaper rolls from Klingspor for all of his hand sanding. Rather than “Porter Cable Stikit Sandpaper”
See my new "Klingspor Sandpaper Rolls" blog entry.
Popular (13) [category/popular]
- Carl’s 4x7x2 Sharpening Jigs - November 27, 2022 [Popular]Carl's "Set It and Forget It" 4x7x2 Sharpening Jigs System makes sharpening woodturning gouges QUICK and EASY! 3 Vari-Grind jigs are converted to 3 CUSTOM sharpening jigs.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Jigs, Popular, Tools Jigs
- Updated Carl’s Modern Woodturning Tool Set 2018 - October 13, 2024 [Popular] (Original: February 13, 2015)Carl's suggestions for a MODERN set of woodturning tools for new turners. A set for mostly bowls, hollow forms, and whimsy. With a little spindle turning here and there.
- Carl’s New Powermatic 2014 Lathe - April 18, 2021 [Popular]
Carl's Powermatic 2014 Lathe setup and REAL WORLD review. Photos, experience, opinion and measurements, for people interested in purchasing a PM 2014 Lathe. - Updated Carl’s New Powermatic 3520C Lathe verses My Old Powermatic 3520B - May 31, 2024 [Popular] (Original: March 13, 2018)
Carl's Powermatic 3520C Lathe setup and review. Photos, experience, opinion and measurements, for people interested in purchasing a PM 3520C lathe. - Updated Carl’s Studio July 2015 - March 2, 2023 [Popular] (Original: August 2, 2015)Photos of Carl's Woodturning Studio. A picture is worth a thousand words.
- Updated Carl’s Travel Woodturning Tool Set - September 23, 2024 [Popular] (Original: December 2, 2018)Carl's Travel Woodturning Tool Set. A set that can be EASILY take to demos, club meetings and symposiums. Carl also recommends this set for new turners.
Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Great Ideas, Popular, Turning Tools
- Updated Essential Books & DVDs for Students - May 31, 2024 [Popular] (Original: March 13, 2015)Carl's recommended and Must Have Woodturning Books and DVDs. By topic: Spindle Turning, Bowl Turning, Project Books, Picture Books, Hollow Forms, etc.
- Updated Martel 4 Way Caliper - April 14, 2024 [Popular] (Original: October 25, 2020)Carl recommends the Martel 4 Way Caliper. Expensive and worth every penny! The unique shape of the Martel calipers makes them really useful for measuring the depth of things (plates, bowls and hollow forms) while they are still on the chuck!
- New Pinterest Gallery of Carl’s Wood Art - March 9, 2022 [Popular]Check out Carl's new Pinterest Photo Gallery of his Wood Art. Over 300 items with a user friendly front end interface to Pinterest.
- Sanding Cheat Sheet - April 1, 2020 [Popular]Carl's "Sanding Cheat Sheet" ties all of his sanding blog entries together. Wet Wood? Then use ... Already Finished? Spindle Turning? Bowl or Hollow Form?
- Updated So you want to buy a lathe? A real lathe? - September 10, 2020 [Popular] (Original: July 31, 2015)Carl's unbiased comparison, review and recommendation of Woodturning Lathes for people who are interested in purchasing a real lathe. Powermatic, Oneway, Vicmarc, Robust, Laguna, Jet, and Nova lathes. 110 vs 220 volts. Lathes that Carl does not recommend.
- Updated Turning Smocks & Low Cost Alternatives - March 13, 2026 [Popular] (Original: February 28, 2019)Carl reviews Turning Smocks and suggests some low cost alternatives. Get one before nature calls or "She Who Must be Obeyed" outlaws woodturning due to shavings in the house.
- Workshop Blower for Cleanup - October 15, 2018 [Popular]Quick Tip: A little blower is great for quick clean up. I just blow all the saw dust and shavings off of my lathes onto the floor and then sweep or vacuum them up.
Carl's For Students, Dust Collection, Great Ideas, Popular, Tools Machines
Projects (15) [category/projects]
- 1st Bowl on New Powermatic 2014 Lathe - April 18, 2021 [Projects]
The second thing Carl turned on his new Powermatic 2014 Lathe was a Live Edge Bowl. No problems. Step by step photos. Live edge bowls put a lot of stress on a lathe because they are out of balance from start to finish. - 1st Hollow Form on New Powermatic 2014 Lathe - April 18, 2021 [Projects]
The third thing Carl turned on his new Powermatic 2014 Lathe was a Hollow Form Vase. No big problems. Step by step photos. Hollow forms put a lot of stress on the lathe headstock when you are hollowing them out. - 1st Hollow Form on New Powermatic 3520C Lathe - April 20, 2018 [Projects]
The second thing Carl turned on his new Powermatic 3520C Lathe was a nice cherry hollow form. - 1st Plate Bowl on New Powermatic 3520C Lathe - March 22, 2018 [Projects]
The first thing Carl turned on his new Powermatic 3520C Lathe was a plate bowl. A plate with a little bowl in the center. Carl likes to turn this shape and then use it as a canvas that he can decorate. - 1st Plate on New Powermatic 2014 Lathe - April 18, 2021 [Projects]
The first thing Carl turned on his new Powermatic 2014 Lathe was a plate. It was a pleasure. Step by step photos. - Updated A Modern Lamp for any Table - December 31, 2023 [Projects] (Original: August 1, 2021)Link to Carl's "A Modern Lamp for any Table" AAW magazine article PDF. How to turn a wooden lamp that looks great! A skill building project.
Carl's Articles, Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Projects
- AAW Turning of the Week - March 6, 2019 [Projects]Carl's Pennsylvania Dutch Cake Stand was just selected as the "AAW Turning of the Week" on 3/6/2019.
- Antique Candlestick Demo - February 28, 2014 [Projects]Link to Carl's PDF handout for "Antique Candlesticks" demo. Turning new Antique Candlesticks is a great way to improve your spindle turning skills and use up scraps of wood.
- Updated Carl’s Cactus Plate Bowl - March 9, 2023 [Projects] (Original: January 26, 2019)Carl shows the inspiration for his Ric Rac Orchid Cactus Plate/Bowl and how he created it using the sgraffito process he learned from Al Stirt.
- Carl’s Woodturning Workshop Class - October 9, 2019 [Projects]“Class Information, Suggested Projects for Beginners and the Fine Print” for Carl's long running and very popular Woodturning Workshop Class. In Carl's Studio in Poughkeepsie NY.
- Nutmeg 2×4 Challenge - December 29, 2018 [Projects]Carl's bowl that he turned from a 2x4 for the January 2014 "Nutmeg 2x4 Challenge". Step by step photos and suggestions.
- Screw Eyes for Christmas Ornaments - December 16, 2023 [Projects]Carl likes to make his own custom screw eyes for my Christmas Tree Ornaments out of 20 gauge brass wire. His wire screw eyes are small and elegant!
- Solid Wood Christmas Ornaments - December 19, 2023 [Projects]
Carl recently discovered that turning Christmas Tree Ornaments out of solid wood is a lot of fun. You don't need to waste time and effort hollowing them out. - Turning Bottle Stoppers - May 28, 2013 [Projects]
Carl turns a Bottle Stopper. Step by step photos. Turning Bottle Stoppers is a great way to improve your turning skills. It is also a great way to use up little scraps of wood or experiment with exotic woods. - Viking Sunset Bowl - December 19, 2018 [Projects]Photos of Nick Agar style Viking Sunset Bowl made by Carl. Quick intro to airbrushes and cheap airbrush advice.
SendCutSend (5) [category/sendcutsend]
- Drawing Complex Shapes for SendCutSend - January 23, 2026 [SendCutSend]Carl shows how to draw MULTIPLE shapes (rectangles, circles, etc.) and then merge them to create a single complex shape that he can send to SendCutSend.
- How To Order a Part from SendCutSend - January 30, 2026 [SendCutSend]The Step by Step process that Carl uses to order custom parts from SendCutSend on the web. How to send DXF files to SendCutSend.
- Labels for SendCutSend Parts - January 31, 2026 [SendCutSend]
Carl prints his own Glossy Waterproof Labels for his SendCutSend parts. He draws them on his PC and prints them on blank label sheets from OnlineLabels.com Product# OL5125WI. - OpenOffice Draw to DXF File for SendCutSend - January 30, 2026 [SendCutSend]Carl uses this WACKY process to draw CUSTOM parts in OpenOffice Draw and then create DXF (.dxf) files for SendCutSend.
- SendCutSend for Custom Low Cost Parts - January 31, 2026 [SendCutSend]
Carl uses SendCutSend for Custom Low Cost Aluminum and Steel parts. He sends them a 2D drawing and they send back 3D parts in roughly a week. The third dimension is the thickness of the metal part manufactured by SendCutSend.
Suppliers (15) [category/suppliers]
- Updated Blue & Purple Masking Tape - April 7, 2023 [Suppliers] (Original: July 26, 2020)Carl recently started using the new 3M Scotch "Delicate Surface Painter's Tape #2080" Purple masking tape. He likes it. It works good on top of a layer of sealer.
- Updated Blue Flex Sanding Disks - November 22, 2025 [Suppliers] (Original: November 20, 2014)Carl likes the “Blue Flex” sanding disk sold by Vince’s Wooden Wonders. He has been using them for the last 4-5 years and is am very happy.
- C-Line Sheet Protectors - January 26, 2014 [Suppliers]
Carl uses a "C-Line Sheet Protector" to protect his reference papers while turning. The Neon Orange color makes it easy to find. It is made of tough clear plastic with a nice grommet that allows me to hang it up. - Fancy “S” Hooks for Christmas Ornaments - December 16, 2023 [Suppliers]
Carl likes to use Fancy Decorative "S" Hooks on his turned wooden Christmas Tree Ornaments. They add a little something extra to his ornaments. - Good Cheap Masking Tape - September 17, 2021 [Suppliers]Carl recommends Blick brand masking tape from Dick Blick on the web. It is a bit on the thin side but it works good and the price is reasonable.
- Updated Green Wood Sealer - September 23, 2025 [Suppliers] (Original: August 7, 2022)
Carl recommends "AnchorSeal CLASSIC" when people ask me about Green Wood Sealer! - Klingspor Sandpaper Rolls - December 3, 2019 [Suppliers]
Carl is now using sandpaper rolls from Klingspor for all of his hand sanding. Rather than "Porter Cable Stikit Sandpaper". - Updated McMaster-Carr - June 28, 2021 [Suppliers] (Original: February 22, 2013)
People are always asking me where did you get that? And, my answer is always “Mcmaster”. Mcmaster-Carr is an old time industrial supply company with a very efficient modern business model. - Updated Morse Taper Drills on Ebay - April 18, 2021 [Suppliers] (Original: March 5, 2014)
Carl likes to use Morse Taper drills in the tailstock of his lathe to drill holes. Ebay is a good place to purchase large Morse Taper drills cheap. - Updated Nylon Mesh Sanding Rolls (aka Synthetic Steel Wool) - August 6, 2024 [Suppliers] (Original: September 11, 2019)Carl's take on Steel Wool. Carl uses Nylon Mesh Rolls from McMaster-Carr. Part numbers for "Carl Ford" Course, Medium and Fine.
- Updated Paint Brushes & Acrylic Paint - March 17, 2022 [Suppliers] (Original: October 9, 2021)Carl recommends paint brushes and acrylic paint for painting on the wood lathe with the lathe running.
- Plate Display Stands - September 5, 2022 [Suppliers]
Carl reviews low cost metal plate display stands for 10" diameter plates and low wide rim bowls. - Updated Power Carving Textures - March 21, 2026 [Suppliers] (Original: January 8, 2017)Carl's take on carving textures with Reciprocating and Rotary Power Carving Tools. Recommended Burrs, Gouges, Layout, Cleaning up with Bristle Discs, etc.
- Updated RG45 Gas Welding Rod - October 24, 2025 [Suppliers] (Original: November 12, 2021)
Quick Tip: Carl keeps a good supply of RG45 Gas Welding Rod on hand. He uses it to hang things up and lots of other things. - West System 5 Minute Epoxy - September 4, 2020 [Suppliers]
Carl uses West System 5 minute epoxy. He is saving money and he likes the West System stuff a lot better than the ubiquitous 2 part syringes from local hardware store.
Tools Carving (15) [category/tools-carving]
- Updated 1/4″ Die Grinders - August 20, 2023 [Tools Carving] (Original: April 19, 2023)1/4" Die Grinders that Carl owns and recommends. Big 1/4" shaft carving burs work best in an electric die grinder.
- 3M Roloc Bristle Disc - October 30, 2020 [Tools Carving]
Carl is now using "3M ROLOC Bristle Discs" to clean up my carvings on almost FLAT things. You can really go at it and scrub a piece with a Roloc disc. - Updated Awesome Big Carving Burs - April 22, 2023 [Tools Carving] (Original: September 3, 2022)
Carl highly recommends BIG 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" diameter head burs made and sold by McMaster-Carr for surface decoration of woodturnings. They run absolutely dead true at high speed and they do not create a lot of tear out. - Updated Carl’s Carving Stand - January 29, 2026 [Tools Carving] (Original: December 27, 2021)Carl's Carving Stand is bare bones simple and works good! You can make your own. It allows you to easily carve any piece of work attached to a wood lathe chuck or faceplate.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Carving
- Carl’s Index Wheels – How to Make - September 19, 2022 [Tools Carving]How to print and make Carl's enhanced Al Stirt style index wheels. Carl's index wheels have lots of markings that make them easy to use. Red dots on every other division, etc. Red, green, blue, etc highlights on 8", 9", 10", etc diameter circles.
- Carl’s Index Wheels – How To Use - September 19, 2022 [Tools Carving]Carl shows how he sketches a pattern and replicates it using his Al Stirt style index wheels. Al Stirt's idea and method. Carl's enhanced index wheels.
- Updated Cleaning Power Carving Burs - May 12, 2025 [Tools Carving] (Original: May 1, 2023)
Carl uses CMT Formula 2050 Blade and Bit Cleaner to clean his power carving burs. It works good! - Drill Brush - August 10, 2022 [Tools Carving]
Carl is now using a "Drill Brush" to clean up my power carvings. To remove wood fuzz, etc. It is a good cheap alternative to a "3M Roloc Bristle Disc". - Updated Large Carving Gouge for Log Nib Removal - April 12, 2024 [Tools Carving] (Original: April 25, 2024)
Carl likes to use a big 5/35 Carving Gouge to remove the nib left over on a log after turning it between centers. Carving gouges work better than old fashioned flat wood chisels. - Updated New Power Carving Burs 2021 - April 22, 2023 [Tools Carving] (Original: November 21, 2021)Carl discovers and reviews Manpa Concave Eye Cutters, Manpa Mini Triangle & Round Cutters, Rotary Chisels, and Maillefer Concave Cutter Burrs.
- Updated Power Carving Textures - March 21, 2026 [Tools Carving] (Original: January 8, 2017)Carl's take on carving textures with Reciprocating and Rotary Power Carving Tools. Recommended Burrs, Gouges, Layout, Cleaning up with Bristle Discs, etc.
- Rotary V-Cutter (V-Tool Carving Chisel) - August 13, 2023 [Tools Carving]Carl's new Rotary Carbide V-Cutter is a real game changer. It is like 10 times faster than a good old hand held V-tool or a V-tool in a reciprocating power carver. It is easy to use and control.
- Updated Round Ball Carving Burs - May 12, 2025 [Tools Carving] (Original: November 22, 2020)Good, but not great, round ball carving burs from Rio Grande. 3/16" and bigger.
- Updated Sanding Wheel Brush - October 30, 2020 [Tools Carving] (Original: November 9, 2019)
Carl recommends “Sanding Wheel Brushes” from McMaster-Carr. They are a good alternative to the “3M Radial Bristle Discs”. Cheaper & last longer. - Sharpening & Buffing Lathe Attachment - February 25, 2022 [Tools Carving]Carl created a "Sharpening and Buffing Attachment" for his wood lathe. It is cheap and easy to make. He uses it to sharpen his wood carving gouges and to buff his metal spinning tools.
Tools Chucks (16) [category/tools-chucks]
- Updated Best Drive Center - May 8, 2020 [Tools Chucks] (Original: November 14, 2014)
The “Nova Jumbo Spur Center” use to be the best 2 or 4 prong drive center in Carl's not so humble opinion. However, he now likes the “Oneway Big Bite Spur” better. - Carl’s Jam Chucks - January 22, 2023 [Tools Chucks]Carl likes jam chucks made out of 3/4" plywood and PVC pipe couplings. Carl's jam chucks are Drum Chucks that you can be used with or with out vacuum. How to make your own.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Chucks
- Collet Chuck Revisited - June 5, 2020 [Tools Chucks]
A metal working "Straight Shank ER32 Collet Holder" on Amazon is a cheaper alternative to the pricey Apprentice or Beall Collet Chucks available in the woodturning world. - Updated Collet Chucks - June 5, 2020 [Tools Chucks] (Original: March 19, 2013)
Carl finds collet chucks convenient for holding small work. It is very easy to mount a chunk of dowel as a turning blank. Carl reviews 2 poplar brands of collet chucks. - Color Code Your Faceplate Screws - February 10, 2024 [Tools Chucks]Carl likes to use faceplates. He color codes his faceplate screws to avoid mistakes. 1‐1/2" screws are pink. 1-3/4" screws are green. Carl likes number 14, high thread, stainless steel Sheet Metal screws purchased from McMaster.com.
- Faceplate Set Up for Woodturning - May 18, 2025 [Tools Chucks]Carl modifies his woodturning faceplates. He countersinks the screw holes and center of the faceplate. He also adds set screws.
- Updated Foam Cole Jaws - December 27, 2021 [Tools Chucks] (Original: April 8, 2019)Link to Carl's "Foam Cole Jaws" AAW magazine "tips section" PDF. Sticky-back craft foam on my Jumbo Jaws helps protect a bowl’s rim when reverse-chucked to finish the bottom.
- Grease Chuck Jaw Screws - June 4, 2025 [Tools Chucks]Carl likes to grease the jaw screws on his woodturning chucks. It makes the screws easier to remove latter.
- Lathe Accessories for a New Turner - February 5, 2019 [Tools Chucks]Carl's suggestions for a new woodturner. Join the AAW, Take a Class, Turning Tools, Faceplates, Drill Chuck, 4 Jaw Chuck, and Turning Smocks.
- Longer Oneway Chuck Wrench Handle - August 20, 2023 [Tools Chucks]
Carl likes to install a longer bar in his Oneway Chuck Wrench Handles to make them easier to use. The short bar slips out of his hand, hurts his hand or he can’t get enough leverage. - Updated Mounting Plates and Shallow Bowls - September 8, 2023 [Tools Chucks] (Original: November 16, 2019)Link to Carl's "Drilled Chucking Recess" AAW magazine "tips section" PDF. A 2-1/2″ diameter hole is an easy and secure way to mount blanks for plates and shallow bowls on the lathe.
Carl's Articles, Carl's For Students, Great Ideas, Tools Chucks
- Oneway Big Bite Spur Center - May 8, 2020 [Tools Chucks]Carl recommends the “Oneway Big Bite Spur” center for driving big things. Big blanks for bowls or logs for hollow forms. It only costs around $20 on 5/5/2020.
- Updated Oneway Jaw Jigs - February 4, 2026 [Tools Chucks] (Original: September 29, 2021)Carl's Tenon Size and Hole Size jigs for the Oneway Stronghold Chuck with #2 or #3 profiled jaws.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's For Students, Carl's Jigs, Tools Chucks
- Round Chuck Jaw Corners for Safety - April 28, 2025 [Tools Chucks]
Quick Tip: Carl likes to round over the sharp corners on his Woodturning Chuck Jaws for Safety. He only does this when it does not interfere with the holding power of the chuck. - Updated SC1 & SC2 Mini 4 Jaw Scroll Chucks - February 13, 2026 [Tools Chucks] (Original: March 10, 2023)Carl really likes the new Record Power (brand) Mini SC1 & SC2 4 Jaw Scroll Chucks. They are high quality chucks that work great on small things.
- Updated Shopmade Collet Chuck - September 4, 2021 [Tools Chucks] (Original: November 19, 2018)Link to Carl's "Shopmade Collet Chuck" AAW magazine article PDF. How to make your own custom collet chucks out of UHMW plastic.
Tools Hollowing (9) [category/tools-hollowing]
- Better Bolt for Munro Hollower II - November 25, 2018 [Tools Hollowing]
Carl recommends a Low Head Socket Head Cap Screw from McMaster. It works better than the cap screw shipped with Munro Hollower II. - Updated Bosch Stabilizer Improvements - August 4, 2024 [Tools Hollowing] (Original: May 3, 2021)Three small quick and easy improvements to Trent Bosch Hollowing Tool Stabilizer.
- Updated Bosch Stabilizer Storage – Bungee Cords - May 5, 2025 [Tools Hollowing] (Original: August 4, 2024)Carl now uses Bungee Cords to secure his Trent Bosch Stabilizer when storing it. Thus, it is easy to handle. It does NOT unfold and flop around.
- Updated Carl’s Modern Hollowing Tools 2024 - May 4, 2025 [Tools Hollowing] (Original: October 13, 2024)Carl's hollowing tools for Woodturners. Start small. Consider the "Simple Hollowing System". Go with Trent Bosch "3/4" Hollowing Tool Stabilizer" with Visualizer.
Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Hollowing, Turning Tools
- Updated Carl’s TV Hollowing Rig - September 4, 2020 [Tools Hollowing] (Original: November 20, 2019)Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "TV Hollowing" demo. Carl uses a Trent Bosch Hollowing Stabilizer rig with a Rolly Munro cutter head.
- Handle Added to Simple Hollower - May 4, 2025 [Tools Hollowing]Carl added a handle to his "Simple Hollower". This is how he did it. Now he can use his whole body to make nice hollow form shapes. The way he does, when he is using a bowl gouge with a handle.
- Updated More Bosch Stabilizer Holes – SendCutSend - February 20, 2026 [Tools Hollowing] (Original: February 23, 2026)Carl added 9 more fulcrum pin holes to his Trent Bosch Hollowing Tool Stabilizer. Now there is always a hole in the right location! This really saves time and makes hollowing a lot more fun! His new version can be ordered from SendCutSend.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's Tools, Great Ideas, Tools Hollowing, Turning Tools
- Munro Carbide Cutter - November 8, 2017 [Tools Hollowing]
Carl's recommends using low cost carbide cutters from "Az Carbide". Carbide cutters are a great investment because they speed up your learning process. - Reverse The Bosch Stabilizer - June 7, 2025 [Tools Hollowing]Carl reverses the lathe banjo and his Trent Bosch Stabilizer when hollowing with the lathe in reverse. The arms on his Stabilizer are then free to move almost completely unimpeded.
Tools Jigs (8) [category/tools-jigs]
- 2×4 Harbor Freight Airbrush Holder - April 30, 2022 [Tools Jigs]Quick Tip: 2x4 airbrush holder for cheap Harbor Freight Airbrushes. Works great. You can easily move it around and store it on a shelf.
- Add V-Arm Shaft Collar - August 26, 2023 [Tools Jigs]
Carl has added a two-piece shaft collar to the V-Arm on his Oneway Wolverine grinding jig. It allows him to quickly and easily install the V-Arm with out fusing around. - Carl’s 4x7x2 Sharpening Jigs - November 27, 2022 [Tools Jigs]Carl's "Set It and Forget It" 4x7x2 Sharpening Jigs System makes sharpening woodturning gouges QUICK and EASY! 3 Vari-Grind jigs are converted to 3 CUSTOM sharpening jigs.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Jigs, Popular, Tools Jigs
- Carl’s Turntable for Finishing - January 1, 2022 [Tools Jigs]Carl made his own turntable. He often uses it when painting and finishing things. It really helps him get a nice even finish on things with out finger prints.
- Updated Circle Center Finder - April 11, 2024 [Tools Jigs] (Original: March 21, 2020)
Carl uses a see thru plastic Circle Center Finder to quickly find the center of his wood turning blanks. It works good. Quick and easy. - Updated Martel 4 Way Caliper - April 14, 2024 [Tools Jigs] (Original: October 25, 2020)Carl recommends the Martel 4 Way Caliper. Expensive and worth every penny! The unique shape of the Martel calipers makes them really useful for measuring the depth of things (plates, bowls and hollow forms) while they are still on the chuck!
- Vevor vs Easy Grind vs Oneway Vari-Grind Jig - October 30, 2022 [Tools Jigs]
Carl compares and reviews Vari-Grind sharpening jigs. Vevor Vari-Grind Jig vs Easy Grind Gouge Sharpening Jig vs Oneway Wolverine Vari-Grind Jig. Carl recommends the Oneway jig. - Updated Wolverine Grinder Jig Setup - June 2, 2025 [Tools Jigs] (Original: April 8, 2020)Carl recommends the Wolverine Grinder Jig. It is the de facto standard! Here is how Carl recommends setting up your Wolverine.
Tools Lathes (17) [category/tools-lathes]
- 1st Bowl on New Powermatic 2014 Lathe - April 18, 2021 [Tools Lathes]The second thing Carl turned on his new Powermatic 2014 Lathe was a Live Edge Bowl. No problems. Step by step photos. Live edge bowls put a lot of stress on a lathe because they are out of balance from start to finish.
- 1st Hollow Form on New Powermatic 2014 Lathe - April 18, 2021 [Tools Lathes]The third thing Carl turned on his new Powermatic 2014 Lathe was a Hollow Form Vase. No big problems. Step by step photos. Hollow forms put a lot of stress on the lathe headstock when you are hollowing them out.
- 1st Hollow Form on New Powermatic 3520C Lathe - April 20, 2018 [Tools Lathes]The second thing Carl turned on his new Powermatic 3520C Lathe was a nice cherry hollow form.
- 1st Plate Bowl on New Powermatic 3520C Lathe - March 22, 2018 [Tools Lathes]The first thing Carl turned on his new Powermatic 3520C Lathe was a plate bowl. A plate with a little bowl in the center. Carl likes to turn this shape and then use it as a canvas that he can decorate.
- 1st Plate on New Powermatic 2014 Lathe - April 18, 2021 [Tools Lathes]The first thing Carl turned on his new Powermatic 2014 Lathe was a plate. It was a pleasure. Step by step photos.
- Updated A Great Little Lathe Review - September 10, 2020 [Tools Lathes] (Original: May 12, 2010)
Carl's review and recommendation of the 10" Turncrafter Lathe made and sold by Penn State Industries. - Bottom Shelf for Powermatic 3520C Lathe - April 25, 2018 [Tools Lathes]
How Carl added a Bottom Shelf to his new Powermatic 3520C lathe with roughly 240 lbs of stone ballast. It is really a two level shelf. With stone on the bottom and a storage shelf above. - Carl’s New Powermatic 2014 Lathe - April 18, 2021 [Tools Lathes]Carl's Powermatic 2014 Lathe setup and REAL WORLD review. Photos, experience, opinion and measurements, for people interested in purchasing a PM 2014 Lathe.
- Updated Carl’s New Powermatic 2014 Lathe Stand - December 29, 2022 [Tools Lathes] (Original: April 18, 2021)
How Carl beefed up a Harbor Freight Workbench to create a GOOD Stand (Bench) with drawers for his new Powermatic 2014 Lathe. Step by step photos. - Updated Carl’s New Powermatic 3520C Lathe verses My Old Powermatic 3520B - May 31, 2024 [Tools Lathes] (Original: March 13, 2018)Carl's Powermatic 3520C Lathe setup and review. Photos, experience, opinion and measurements, for people interested in purchasing a PM 3520C lathe.
- Carl’s Overhead Light Bar (and Camera Bar) - November 21, 2023 [Tools Lathes]Carl has discovered that an Overhead Light Bar with magnetically attached LED lights is the best lathe lighting solution. Why? 1. Let there be light anywhere! 2. EASY to REPOSITION lights! 3. Never in the way! 4. No shake! 5. Low cost DIY solution.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Tools Lathes, Tools Misc, Tools Studio
- Updated Harvey T60 2448 Lathe with Servo Motor Review - February 16, 2026 [Tools Lathes] (Original: April 4, 2025)
Carl tests and reviews the Harvey T60 2448 Lathe and compares it to a Powermatic 3520C Lathe. He really likes the Harvey T60. - Headstock Shelf for Powermatic 3520C Lathe - May 7, 2018 [Tools Lathes]
How Carl added a shelf to the Headstock of his new Powermatic 3520C lathe. A headstock shelf keeps everything VERY handy. A great place to store live centers, chucks, wrenches, etc. - Lathe Disk Sander - March 16, 2014 [Tools Lathes]
A variable speed lathe makes a great VARIABLE speed disk sander. You can adjust the speed to avoid burning the end grain on woods like Cherry. - Oneway 2436 Lathe Headstock Spindle - April 2, 2026 [Tools Lathes]
Photos showing the Spindle Assembly, that is normally hidden inside the Headstock of a Oneway 2436 Lathe. - Updated Revolutionary New 110 Volt Lathes - April 15, 2021 [Tools Lathes] (Original: August 15, 2020)
Carl is really interested in 2 new 110 volt lathes. Carl's thoughts on the new Laguna Revo 15/24 Lathe and Powermatic 2014 Lathe - Updated So you want to buy a lathe? A real lathe? - September 10, 2020 [Tools Lathes] (Original: July 31, 2015)Carl's unbiased comparison, review and recommendation of Woodturning Lathes for people who are interested in purchasing a real lathe. Powermatic, Oneway, Vicmarc, Robust, Laguna, Jet, and Nova lathes. 110 vs 220 volts. Lathes that Carl does not recommend.
Tools Machines (13) [category/tools-machines]
- Updated Bowl Gouge Cleaning Wheel - April 17, 2023 [Tools Machines] (Original: October 17, 2022)Carl cleans his bowl gouges with a 3" nylon wheel attached to the side if his grinder when turning green wood. It is quick and easy!
Carl's Articles, Carl's For Students, Great Ideas, Tools Machines
- Carl’s Grinder Stand - May 18, 2021 [Tools Machines]Carl likes having the center of his grinder wheel 46" off the floor on a stand that he can easily move around his studio.
- Updated CBN Grinder Wheels - February 8, 2025 [Tools Machines] (Original: March 19, 2020)
Carl recommends CBN wheels for newbies. They really simplify things because the size of the wheel never changes. What grit? Get a wide wheel? - Drill Press Vise - October 30, 2017 [Tools Machines]
Carl recommends a drill press vice (Dayton 31LZ65) he likes. Plus a trick that allows quick and easy vice install or removal. - Updated Low Cost Industrial Bench Grinder - July 2, 2020 [Tools Machines] (Original: January 27, 2013)
Carl recommends a "Best Buy" industrial quality bench grinder. A Dayton 2LKR9. Why this grinder? Must be 8", Make your own grinder stand. Tool rests & grinding wheels. - Metal Cutting Bandsaw - May 22, 2020 [Tools Machines]
Carl shows an affordable metal cutting bandsaw alternative. A "Portband Table" from "Swag Offroad" with a Milwaukee Portaband saw works good. - Pistol Style Airbrush - September 12, 2020 [Tools Machines]Carl recommends a Pistol Style Airbrush for people who have trouble with a trigger on top style airbrush.
- Updated Red Box Heater & Blue Blower - July 23, 2022 [Tools Machines] (Original: February 8, 2013)
Carl's take on heat for your workshop or studio. Is it time to think about investing in a heater? Are you tired of standing in a cold studio or work shop? - Self Centering Vise (Pen Drilling Vise) - May 11, 2013 [Tools Machines]
Carl recommends a "D4064 Self Centering Vise" made by Shop Fox for pen drilling. Rather than the wimpy and expensive vises they sell for pen drilling. - Small Wood Bandsaw - May 16, 2020 [Tools Machines]
Carl recommends a "WEN 3939T 9-Inch Benchtop Band Saw" for small things. When you don't want to cut off your fingers on your big bandsaw with a 3 TPI blade. - UF-Sharp CBN Grinder Wheels - February 8, 2025 [Tools Machines]
Carl NOW recommend purchasing CBN Grinder Wheels from "UF-SHARP" brand on Amazon. He no longer recommends doing business with "WoodTurnersWonders”. - Woodworker II Table Saw Blade - August 3, 2020 [Tools Machines]
Carl recommends a "Forrest Woodworker II" saw blade. It goes thru 2" or 3" thick maple like a hot knife thru butter. It makes cutting up plate and shallow bowl blanks a real joy. - Workshop Blower for Cleanup - October 15, 2018 [Tools Machines]Quick Tip: A little blower is great for quick clean up. I just blow all the saw dust and shavings off of my lathes onto the floor and then sweep or vacuum them up.
Carl's For Students, Dust Collection, Great Ideas, Popular, Tools Machines
Tools Misc (19) [category/tools-misc]
- Air Duster (Mini Blower) for Shop Cleanup - February 22, 2026 [Tools Misc]Carl uses his NEW Mini Blower (Air Duster) for small clean up jobs in his shop. It is just the right size and power. Better than a big blower or air hose gun. Why? Less dust in the air!
- Updated Automatic Center Punch – Heavy Duty - August 25, 2026 [Tools Misc] (Original: August 26, 2026)
Carl likes the "iGaging Heavy Duty Automatic Center Punch 36-S302". It really is heavy duty. It can make a nice hole in the end grain of hard maple wood. - Battery Powered Chainsaw - December 13, 2025 [Tools Misc]
Carl really likes his new Battery powered Chain Saw! It is an Echo (brand) model DCS-5000 with an 18" bar. It is the perfect saw for a couple of quick cuts or on Sunday mornings when you do not want to disturb the neighbors. - Carl’s Overhead Light Bar (and Camera Bar) - November 21, 2023 [Tools Misc]Carl has discovered that an Overhead Light Bar with magnetically attached LED lights is the best lathe lighting solution. Why? 1. Let there be light anywhere! 2. EASY to REPOSITION lights! 3. Never in the way! 4. No shake! 5. Low cost DIY solution.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Tools Lathes, Tools Misc, Tools Studio
- Center Drill Set - February 14, 2022 [Tools Misc]
Carl uses a "Center Drill" to create a starting hole for twist drills when he wants to drill a precise hole. Everyone should own a set of center drills. - Cheap Big Drills - January 22, 2013 [Tools Misc]
Quick Tip: Good price on "S&D Drill, 9/16" to 1" by 16ths" (8 drills) set from Victory Machinery in Brooklyn NY - DIY Magnetic Light Base - November 11, 2023 [Tools Misc]Carl likes to add his own magnetic bases to his IKEA Jansjo or QUANS gooseneck LED lights. He has LED lights on magnetic bases all over his studio. On his lathes, bandsaws, drill press, and grinders. On the dust hood in his carving area, etc.
- Updated Drop-on Chainsaw Scabbard - August 5, 2024 [Tools Misc] (Original: August 15, 2024)Carl made a "Drop-on" scabbard for his chainsaw that is easy to install. Thus he always uses it, for safety, when his chainsaw is not in use.
- Fluid Film - August 10, 2024 [Tools Misc]Carl uses "Fluid Film" to prevent rust on the bed ways of his lathe, band saw, drill press, and other shop machines.
- Good Quality Plywood - December 30, 2022 [Tools Misc]
Finding good quality plywood at a reasonable price is not impossible. I use 3/4" "Radiata Pine" plywood in the Northeastern USA. - Led Flashlight for Hollowing - April 19, 2024 [Tools Misc]
Carl has discovered that the "NextLED NT-7647 20-Inch Gooseneck Flashlight" makes a great light for looking inside of vases and hollow forms. - Magnets Capture Metal Grinding Dust - December 17, 2022 [Tools Misc]
Quick Tip: Super Magnets (Rare Earth Magnets) attached to the wheel guards on my grinder captures the powdery metal grinding dust that is created when I grind my turning tools. - Updated Morse Taper Drills on Ebay - April 18, 2021 [Tools Misc] (Original: March 5, 2014)Carl likes to use Morse Taper drills in the tailstock of his lathe to drill holes. Ebay is a good place to purchase large Morse Taper drills cheap.
- Multiple Drill Chucks - October 21, 2024 [Tools Misc]Carl purchased Multiple Drill Chucks to improve his efficiency. Drill chucks have become ubiquitous and cheap on Amazon.
- QUANS Led Lamp replacement for IKEA Jansjo Led Lamp - November 1, 2023 [Tools Misc]
Carl has found a good replacement for the discontinued IKEA Jansjo LED Lamp. It is the "QUANS 5W COB LED Gooseneck Light". The Amazon price is $17 on 10/11/2023. - Updated Roman Carbide Forstner Drill Bits - August 6, 2024 [Tools Misc] (Original: September 8, 2023)
Carl really likes the new fangled Carbide Forstner bits made by "Roman Carbide" (brand). They drill into end grain EASY and FAST. The big wide openings in the bit easily clear the shavings. The shavings almost jump out of the hole. - Updated Silky Landscape Saw - December 23, 2025 [Tools Misc] (Original: May 10, 2022)Quick Tip: Carl recommends a Silky Gomboy 210 Landscape Saw for woodturning. He uses it to cut off the tenon on woodturnings.
- Storage Baskets - January 28, 2024 [Tools Misc]
Carl uses two different sizes of storage baskets in his studio. They are good for storing all kinds of things. Acrylic paints, sanding supplies, spray cans, etc. - Stout Extensions for Forstner Drill Bits - August 18, 2025 [Tools Misc]
Carl likes the nice heavy duty Forstner Drill Bit Extensions make by Swozzto (brand). $19 for two on 8/2025.
Tools Sanding (24) [category/tools-sanding]
- 3M Roloc Bristle Disc - October 30, 2020 [Tools Sanding]Carl is now using "3M ROLOC Bristle Discs" to clean up my carvings on almost FLAT things. You can really go at it and scrub a piece with a Roloc disc.
- Updated 5 Inch Sanding Disks - November 22, 2025 [Tools Sanding] (Original: October 20, 2025)Carl now uses 5 inch Sanding Disks on the outside of bowls and hollow forms. 5" disks can easily handle jobs that 3" disks struggle with.
- Abralon Sanding Pads - March 31, 2020 [Tools Sanding]
Carl uses Abralon Sanding Pads to sand polyurethane, acrylic and lacquer when finishing things. Nothing else works like Abralon! Accept no substitutes! - Aluminum Backup Pads for Sanding Disks - November 17, 2025 [Tools Sanding]
Aluminum Sanding Backup Pads are the Rolls-Royce of Backup Pads. Carl likes them, because the extra weight of an Aluminum Backup Pad acts sort of like a fly wheel that makes things run smoother. - Angle Drills for Sanding - November 22, 2025 [Tools Sanding]
Carl recommends a standard "TruePower" 3/8" Angle Drill for 2 and 3 inch sanding disks. Purchase from Amazon. He recommends a heavy duty "Makita DA3010F" 3/8" Angle Drill for 5 and 6 inch sanding disks. - Updated Blue Flex Sanding Disks - November 22, 2025 [Tools Sanding] (Original: November 20, 2014)Carl likes the “Blue Flex” sanding disk sold by Vince’s Wooden Wonders. He has been using them for the last 4-5 years and is am very happy.
- Updated Carl’s Sanding Backup Pads - November 16, 2025 [Tools Sanding] (Original: January 31, 2023)Carl likes Sanding Backup Pads (mandrels) that are thin, low profile and HARD. He makes his own out of 1/4" plywood and 1/4" flat head bolts. He attaches firm and soft foam interface pads to make his hard backup pad softer as needed.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Sanding
- Corner Code Your Sandpaper - April 4, 2024 [Tools Sanding]Carl likes to "Corner Code" his sandpaper to avoid mistakes. On 220-grit sandpaper, he cuts off two corners; on 180 grit, he cuts off one corner; etc.
- Drill and Pads for Sanding - March 31, 2020 [Tools Sanding]
Carl recommends a Drill, Backer Pads, and Interface Pads for power sanding. See his “Blue Flex Sanding Disks” blog entry. - Drill Brush - August 10, 2022 [Tools Sanding]Carl is now using a "Drill Brush" to clean up my power carvings. To remove wood fuzz, etc. It is a good cheap alternative to a "3M Roloc Bristle Disc".
- Handy Sandpaper - January 7, 2015 [Tools Sanding]Carl shows how he keeps his sandpaper handy and organized. With 1/8" plywood boards he can hang up and take over to the lathe. Sandpaper organization tips.
- Updated Hang Up your Power Sanding Drills - November 22, 2025 [Tools Sanding] (Original: October 28, 2017)
Quick Tip: Carl keeps his Power Sanding Drills handy by hanging them on the front of his lathe. Photos and how to. - Inside Bottom Sanding Stick - May 1, 2022 [Tools Sanding]
Quick Tip: Carl makes sanding sticks out of styrofoam rather than wood. Why? It hurts a lot less if the lathe rips the sanding stick out of my hands and it hits me! - Klingspor Sandpaper Rolls - December 3, 2019 [Tools Sanding]Carl is now using sandpaper rolls from Klingspor for all of his hand sanding. Rather than "Porter Cable Stikit Sandpaper".
- Updated Lapping Tool Sander - September 5, 2026 [Tools Sanding] (Original: September 6, 2026)
Carl recently purchased a Lapping Tool. It works great for sanding fine details. He sands with 80, 120, and 240 grit Emory Boards. - Lathe Disk Sander - March 16, 2014 [Tools Sanding]A variable speed lathe makes a great VARIABLE speed disk sander. You can adjust the speed to avoid burning the end grain on woods like Cherry.
- Updated Mirka Autonet Sandpaper - February 6, 2023 [Tools Sanding] (Original: March 31, 2020)
Carl recommends Mirka Autonet Sandpaper rather than Abranet. Autonet is virtually the same and cheaper. Autonet makes sanding WET wood possible! - Updated Nylon Mesh Sanding Rolls (aka Synthetic Steel Wool) - August 6, 2024 [Tools Sanding] (Original: September 11, 2019)Carl's take on Steel Wool. Carl uses Nylon Mesh Rolls from McMaster-Carr. Part numbers for "Carl Ford" Course, Medium and Fine.
- Red Siasoft Sandpaper - March 31, 2020 [Tools Sanding]
Carl recommends "Siasoft Red Foam Backed" sandpaper. It is tougher than nails and works great on spindle turnings and wet wood. You can wash it out with water. Then reuse it over and over. - Sanding Cheat Sheet - April 1, 2020 [Tools Sanding]Carl's "Sanding Cheat Sheet" ties all of his sanding blog entries together. Wet Wood? Then use ... Already Finished? Spindle Turning? Bowl or Hollow Form?
- Sanding Wet Wood - March 31, 2020 [Tools Sanding]
Carl has developed a method that allows him to defy old school wisdom and sand wet wood. He friction dries with Siasoft then sands with Autonet. - Updated Sanding Wheel Brush - October 30, 2020 [Tools Sanding] (Original: November 9, 2019)Carl recommends “Sanding Wheel Brushes” from McMaster-Carr. They are a good alternative to the “3M Radial Bristle Discs”. Cheaper & last longer.
- Spindle Extender for Sanding - December 16, 2024 [Tools Sanding]Carl uses a Spindle Extender on his wood lathe to make sanding a lot easier.
- Updated Use Metalworking Steel Wool - April 5, 2024 [Tools Sanding] (Original: April 12, 2024)Carl likes to us "Silicon Carbide - Metalworking Steel Wool" on Woodturning projects. "Woodworking Steel Wool" is Aluminum Oxide. AO melts to easily if you apply too much pressure with the lathe running fast.
Tools Studio (10) [category/tools-studio]
- Better Floor Sweep - June 12, 2021 [Tools Studio]Carl likes the Powertec model #70282 floor sweep. Because the handle is EASILY adjustable! No more disagreements with tall students.
- Carl’s Overhead Light Bar (and Camera Bar) - November 21, 2023 [Tools Studio]Carl has discovered that an Overhead Light Bar with magnetically attached LED lights is the best lathe lighting solution. Why? 1. Let there be light anywhere! 2. EASY to REPOSITION lights! 3. Never in the way! 4. No shake! 5. Low cost DIY solution.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's For Students, Tools Lathes, Tools Misc, Tools Studio
- Updated Face Shields - December 10, 2022 [Tools Studio] (Original: April 22, 2019)Carl reviews face shields. Face shields are HIGHLY PERSONAL. Therefore you should try before you buy. What are your options? Powered vs non powered. Etc.
- Floor Mats - December 18, 2019 [Tools Studio]
Carl recommends “Rubber-Cal Dura-Chef" floor mats. Good tough Anti-Fatigue mats that stay put. Not to soft or hard. Affordable with Amazon Prime free shipping. - Gloves for Woodturners - May 24, 2025 [Tools Studio]Carl recommends good thin "High Dexterity Performance Work Gloves" for male woodturners with big and medium sized hands. He recommends similar Gardening Gloves for women with small hands. You MUST cut the finger and thumb tips off of gloves for SAFETY!
- Gojo Supro Max - September 9, 2020 [Tools Studio]
Carl recommends Gojo Supro Max. It removes almost all of the paint and stains from his hands. It leaves his hands feeling good. Better than Gojo Citrus Orange. - Updated Lathe Shower Curtains - May 14, 2025 [Tools Studio] (Original: March 26, 2015)Tip: CLOTH Shower Curtains are great for quick clean up. Make your own hooks and track (EMT pipe) to minimize the cost. Cloth! No plastic!
- Updated Ram Board Workbench Cover - August 26, 2026 [Tools Studio] (Original: February 27, 2015)
Carl uses "Ram Board" cardboard to cover his work benches. Its tough. It works great! Comes in 38" by 50' rolls. Sold at big box hardware stores. - Updated Turning Smocks & Low Cost Alternatives - March 13, 2026 [Tools Studio] (Original: February 28, 2019)Carl reviews Turning Smocks and suggests some low cost alternatives. Get one before nature calls or "She Who Must be Obeyed" outlaws woodturning due to shavings in the house.
- Wood Chip Fork for Clean Up - April 9, 2025 [Tools Studio]
Quick Tip: Carl uses a 11" wide Wood Chip Fork (aka Ensilage Fork) with a 30" handle for easy clean up. Using a fork is a lot easier than using a shovel.
Tools Woodburning (6) [category/tools-woodburning]
- Battery Charger Wood Vaporizer (Burner) is NO LONGER Feasible - October 25, 2025 [Tools Woodburning]
You can NOT make a Graeme Priddle style Wood Vaporizer (Wood Burner) out of a MODERN automotive battery charger. Carl, suggests some alternatives. - Guitar String Wire Burners - January 13, 2021 [Tools Woodburning]Quick Tip: If you use Acoustic Guitar Wire Burners to friction burn lines with the lathe running they work better than Piano Wire. What size wire? How to make your own.
- Hot Knife Wood Burner - October 29, 2025 [Tools Woodburning]
Carl has discovered that a RoMech (brand) Hot Knife makes a Great Wood Burner. It is light weight and easy to use. He really likes the Triangle Knife Tip. - Updated Insulated Woodburning Handles - May 30, 2026 [Tools Woodburning] (Original: May 31, 2026)
Carl likes to keep his Woodburning Handles cool by insulating them with a layer of "Self Self Adhesive Bandage Wrap" over a layer of "McMaster Blue Mesh Sleeve". - Nichrome Wire for DIY Woodburning Tips - October 25, 2025 [Tools Woodburning]
Carl purchased Nichrome Wire for DIY Woodburning Tips a long time ago from McMaster-Carr. Purchasing it from Amazon may now be cheaper. He has found that 17 BNC (0.045" or 1.2mm or 17 AWG) size wire is the most useful. - Updated Woodburners & Pyrography - October 30, 2025 [Tools Woodburning] (Original: April 28, 2013)Carl's take on the best Woodburners, Tips, & Books for woodturners. What he recommends for his students.
Turning Tools (21) [category/turning-tools]
- Updated Bosch Stabilizer Improvements - August 4, 2024 [Turning Tools] (Original: May 3, 2021)Three small quick and easy improvements to Trent Bosch Hollowing Tool Stabilizer.
- Burnishing Tool for Wood Lathe - February 27, 2022 [Turning Tools]Carl uses a home made burnisher to burnish the textures that he creates with his Sorby Spiraling and Texture Tool. Making a burnisher is easy and cheap.
- Carl’s DIY Scraper Burnisher - November 6, 2024 [Turning Tools]Carl created his own "Scraper Burnisher for Turners" with a 10 degree pin. Why? Because, the well known Veritas one sells for to much money.
- Updated Carl’s Modern Hollowing Tools 2024 - May 4, 2025 [Turning Tools] (Original: October 13, 2024)Carl's hollowing tools for Woodturners. Start small. Consider the "Simple Hollowing System". Go with Trent Bosch "3/4" Hollowing Tool Stabilizer" with Visualizer.
Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Tools Hollowing, Turning Tools
- Updated Carl’s Modern Woodturning Tool Set 2018 - October 13, 2024 [Turning Tools] (Original: February 13, 2015)Carl's suggestions for a MODERN set of woodturning tools for new turners. A set for mostly bowls, hollow forms, and whimsy. With a little spindle turning here and there.
- Updated Carl’s Travel Woodturning Tool Set - September 23, 2024 [Turning Tools] (Original: December 2, 2018)Carl's Travel Woodturning Tool Set. A set that can be EASILY take to demos, club meetings and symposiums. Carl also recommends this set for new turners.
Carl's For Students, Carl's Tools, Great Ideas, Popular, Turning Tools
- Carl’s Woodturning Tool Handles 2024 - October 13, 2024 [Turning Tools]Carl's handles for Woodturners. Carl discusses Handles he likes and does not like on his Woodturning Tools.
- Carl’s Modern Woodturning Tool Set 2024 - October 13, 2024 [Turning Tools]Carl's suggestions for a MODERN set of woodturning tools for new turners. Updated 10/2024. A set for mostly bowls, hollow forms, and whimsy. With a little spindle turning here and there.
- Updated Crown Verses Sorby Spiraling & Texturing Tool - February 27, 2022 [Turning Tools] (Original: April 13, 2020)Carl likes the Crown Spiraling tool better than the Sorby. Why? Wheel comparison chart. How to add a knob to improve the Crown or Sorby tool.
- Updated Custom Tool Handles - May 1, 2024 [Turning Tools] (Original: May 10, 2015)Link to Carl's "Custom Tool Handles" AAW magazine article PDF. How to make your own Custom Tool Handles from PVC Pipe and Heat Shrinkable Fabric or Elastic Mesh Sleeve.
- Updated D-Way Negative Rake Scraper - February 24, 2026 [Turning Tools] (Original: April 23, 2022)Carl likes and recommends D-Way Tools (brand) 1" Long & Strong Curved NEG Rake Scraper BM-NRS-34-LSC.
- Updated Gouge Sharpening Templates - October 22, 2024 [Turning Tools] (Original: May 17, 2013)Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "Sharpening Templates". For Ellsworth, Stirt, Jordan, and Hosaluk gouge grinds. Use with Wolverine and Ellsworth jigs.
- Handle Added to Simple Hollower - May 4, 2025 [Turning Tools]Carl added a handle to his "Simple Hollower". This is how he did it. Now he can use his whole body to make nice hollow form shapes. The way he does, when he is using a bowl gouge with a handle.
- Label Your Tools - October 2, 2014 [Turning Tools]Quick Tip: Add labels to the ferrules of your woodturning tools with the name of tool, and sharpening info. For example "Ellsworth - 2".
- Lathe Accessories for a New Turner - February 5, 2019 [Turning Tools]Carl's suggestions for a new woodturner. Join the AAW, Take a Class, Turning Tools, Faceplates, Drill Chuck, 4 Jaw Chuck, and Turning Smocks.
- Magnet Bars for Tools - July 1, 2022 [Turning Tools]
Carl purchased the magnetic tool holders in the photos of his studio from Amazon. They are Master Magnetics brand. - Updated More Bosch Stabilizer Holes – SendCutSend - February 20, 2026 [Turning Tools] (Original: February 23, 2026)Carl added 9 more fulcrum pin holes to his Trent Bosch Hollowing Tool Stabilizer. Now there is always a hole in the right location! This really saves time and makes hollowing a lot more fun! His new version can be ordered from SendCutSend.
Carl's Blueprints, Carl's DXF Files, Carl's Tools, Great Ideas, Tools Hollowing, Turning Tools
- Narrow & Parting Tools in General - October 2, 2020 [Turning Tools]
Carl's take on Woodturning Narrow Parting Tools and Parting Tools in general. There are better alternatives to the standard narrow woodturning parting tools generally available in the US. - Updated New Ring Tool - April 28, 2024 [Turning Tools] (Original: December 20, 2018)Photos of Cedar Vases made by Carl with his new Sorby Ring Tool. Turned out of green Cedar logs. What you see is what came off the tool. NO sanding.
- Updated Short Quick Release Tool Handle - September 8, 2021 [Turning Tools] (Original: May 15, 2021)Carl's 10" long Quick Release Tool Handle. A 10" version of the 16" long 5/8" Quick Release Tool Handle made by Jimmy Clewes. Step by step photos.
- Updated Turning Tools Bag - May 17, 2021 [Turning Tools] (Original: October 2, 2014)
Carl recommends "Pie Iron" storage bag for turning tools. They are the right size for transporting turning tools to club meetings, etc.
Videos (3) [category/videos]
- Craft in America on Create TV - December 22, 2013 [Videos]
Carl recommends "Craft in America" TV show. He really like the forge and potters episodes. Often things done by clay potters are easy to translate into Woodturning - Hosaluk Woodturning DVD - December 5, 2014 [Videos]
Carl recommends "The Art of Hosaluk in Woodturning DVD" by Michael Hosaluk. It covers lots of good stuff. The $60 price is releasable for 2 very long DVDs. - Updated New Ring Tool - April 28, 2024 [Videos] (Original: December 20, 2018)Photos of Cedar Vases made by Carl with his new Sorby Ring Tool. Turned out of green Cedar logs. What you see is what came off the tool. NO sanding.
Wood (3) [category/wood]
- Carl’s Kiln Dried Wood Process - August 8, 2022 [Wood]Carl documents the blank cutting process he uses to get the most out of hardwood kiln dried boards for woodturning.
- Hard Versus Soft Maple – The Wood Database - January 26, 2015 [Wood]Quick Tip: Carl's rant on "Hard" vs "Soft" Maple. People often say they have hard maple when it is soft. Look up the difference in Wood Database.
- Woodworker II Table Saw Blade - August 3, 2020 [Wood]Carl recommends a "Forrest Woodworker II" saw blade. It goes thru 2" or 3" thick maple like a hot knife thru butter. It makes cutting up plate and shallow bowl blanks a real joy.
Currently there are 252 posts in Carl's blog. Posts may be assigned to more than one category. Currently there are 34 categories on this page with 464 posts.
Website & Blog Pages (24)
- Welcome to Carl's Website & Blog - September 7, 2020 [Website Pages]
Carl produces one of a kind turned, carved, burned and painted wood vessels. His current obsession is Big, Bold, Surface Decoration. He also loves to turn natural edge vases and jazzing up wood turnings with lots of color. - Carl Ford - Studio Woodturner - May 22, 2024 [Website Pages]
Eye Popping Hand Turned Wood Art by Carl Ford. I produce one of a kind turned, carved, burned and painted wood vessels. This is a simple links page that I link to from Instagram, Pinterest, etc. - Carl's Woodturning Classes & Calendar - April 18, 2024 [Website Pages]
Calendar of Woodturning Classes taught by Carl Ford and events (symposiums, shows, etc.) that Carl will be attending. - CarlFordWoodturner on Instagram - May 8, 2022 [Website Pages]
Please check out my "CarlFordWoodturner" account on Instagram and follow it! I try to post one new high quality photo of my artwork per day. - Carl Ford Woodturner on Facebook - May 8, 2022 [Website Pages]
Carl is "Carl Ford Woodturner" on Facebook. He is not a big fan of Facebook. He likes Instagram. Check out "CarlFordWoodturner" on Instagram! - CarlFordWoodturner on Pinterest - November 26, 2021 [Website Pages]
Carl is "CarlFordWoodturner" on Pinterest. He is also "CarlFordWoodturner" on Etsy, Instagram and Facebook! - Photo Gallery of Carl's Wood Art - September 8, 2020 [Website Pages]
Links to Carl's Artwork on his "CarlFordWoodturner" Instagram page and his "CarlFordWoodturner" Etsy shop. - Pinterest Gallery of Carl's Wood Art (Zoomed In) - January 27, 2024 [Website Pages]Zoomed In Photo Gallery of Carl Ford's "Eye Popping Hand Turned Wood Art". User friendly front end (no login required) to Carl's gallery on Pinterest.
- Pinterest Gallery of Carl's Wood Art - March 2, 2022 [Website Pages]Photo Gallery of Carl Ford's "Eye Popping Hand Turned Wood Art". User friendly front end (no login required) to Carl's gallery on Pinterest.
- Pinterest Gallery of Carl’s Blog Entries - October 27, 2025 [Website Pages]
Photo Gallery of Carl Ford's Blog Entries. User friendly front end (no login required) to Carl's gallery on Pinterest. - Carl' Woodturning Blog Intro - May 6, 2022 [Website Pages]
Carl started his own woodturning blog in 2013. Why? 1. Carl has good ideas that he would like to share with others. 2. Carl often finds new tools, etc that work well and he would like to share with others. ... - Use Blog Search Box - May 30, 2022 [Website Pages]Carl' recommends using the "Search Box" on his blog or "All Posts by Category" blog page to find things on his blog or Google.
- Popular Blog Posts - March 12, 2018 [Website Pages]
A short summary of Popular Blog Posts on Carl Ford's Woodturning Blog. Carl's new Powermatic 3520C lathe, Carl's Modern Tools set, etc. - All Posts by Category - November 7, 2014 [Website Pages]
A short summary of All Blog Posts by Category on Carl Ford's Woodturning Blog with thumbnail photos. You can view the text or search on this page. - All Post by Category - NO Thumbnails - January 15, 2022 [Website Pages]A short summary of All Blog Posts by Category on Carl Ford's Woodturning Blog. Text only. You can just view the text or search on this page.
- All Posts by Date (What's New?) - October 19, 2023 [Website Pages]
A short summary of All Blog Posts by Date on Carl Ford's Woodturning Blog with thumbnail photos. You can view the text or search on this page. - All Posts by Modified Date (What's Updated?) - January 1, 2024 [Website Pages]
A short summary of All Blog Posts by Modified Date on Carl Ford's Woodturning Blog with thumbnail photos. You can view the text or search on this page. - Subscribe to Carl's Woodturning Blog - June 13, 2014 [Website Pages]
Subscribe to Carl Ford's Woodturning Blog if you want to receive an email when Carl makes a new blog entry. - Carl's Woodturning Studio - September 9, 2020 [Website Pages]
Intro to Carl's Studio with photos and directions to Carl's Woodturning Studio for Classes, etc. - Carl's Resources For Students - Tools, Jigs, Handouts - September 9, 2020 [Website Pages]
A short summary and links to Carl's Teaching Handouts. All on the same same page to make things easier to find. You can "search" on this page for what you want. - Carl Ford's Woodturning Resume - September 6, 2020 [Website Pages]
Carl's Woodturning Resume in PDF and HTML format. Carl's objective. Carl's experience. Classes taken by Carl. Symposiums attended by Carl. Etc. - Carl's Contact Information - June 13, 2014 [Website Pages]
How to contact Carl. By EMAIL please! Locator map for Poughkeepsie NY, Directions to Carl's Woodturning Studio in Poughkeepse NY. - Carl's Contact Form - June 28, 2023 [Website Pages]
Contact Form for Carl Ford's Website and Blog. The form is protected against spam and other types of automated abuse by “Google reCAPTCHA v3” and “Akismet”. - Kaatskill Woodturners - October 31, 2025 [Website Pages]
The Kaatskill Woodturners (KWA) have moved there club info and events to Google Groups Platform at https://groups.google.com/g/kaatskill-woodturners They also have a Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576316063610
Generated: October 9, 2026, 7:33 am EDT