All Posts by Category ⋆ Carl Ford Studio Woodturner

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On “September 22, 2023, 9:53 am EDT” there are 191 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?
Carl’s “MM to Inches” for Woodturners - May 28, 2021 [Books]
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.
Essential Books & DVDs for Students - March 13, 2015 [Books]
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.
Power Carving Textures - January 8, 2017 [Books]
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.
Woodburners & Pyrography - April 28, 2013 [Books]
Carl's take on the best Woodburners, Tips, & Books for woodturners. What he recommends for his students.

Carl's Articles (14) [category/carls-articles]

Carl's Magazine Articles

A Modern Lamp for any Table - August 1, 2021 [Carl's Articles]
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.
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.
Bowl Gouge Cleaning Wheel - October 17, 2022 [Carl's Articles]
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 Thread On Custom Centering Cones - January 1, 2008 [Carl's Articles]
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.
Custom Tool Handles - May 10, 2015 [Carl's Articles]
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.
Featured in AAW Members’ Gallery - December 2, 2014 [Carl's Articles]
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.
Foam Cole Jaws - April 8, 2019 [Carl's Articles]
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.
Get A Grip - November 7, 2018 [Carl's Articles]
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.
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,
Mounting Plates and Shallow Bowls - November 16, 2019 [Carl's Articles]
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.
Octagon Template Cuts Corners - December 28, 2021 [Carl's Articles]
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 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.
Shopmade Collet Chuck - November 19, 2018 [Carl's Articles]
Link to Carl's "Shopmade Collet Chuck" AAW magazine article PDF. How to make your own custom collet chucks out of UHMW plastic.

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.
60 Covid-19 Hollow Forms - July 7, 2020 [Carl's Artwork]
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!
Carl’s Artwork – Fall 2020 - November 14, 2020 [Carl's Artwork]
Photos of artwork made by Carl in the Fall of 2020. Star Bowls, Maple Leaf Plate & Sunset Wide Rim Bowl.
Carl’s Cactus Plate Bowl - January 26, 2019 [Carl's Artwork]
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.
Covid-19 Hollow Forms - April 9, 2020 [Carl's Artwork]
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.
Done In One Day Vases - February 16, 2020 [Carl's Artwork]
A quick summary of Carl's techniqe that allows him to turn a wooden vase (hollow form vessel) in one day.
Featured in AAW Members’ Gallery - December 2, 2014 [Carl's Artwork]
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.
New Ring Tool - December 20, 2018 [Carl's Artwork]
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 (5) [category/carls-blog]

Blog Moved from Quick Blogcast to WordPress - June 23, 2014 [Carl's Blog]
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.
Carl’s Website & Blog Merged - September 18, 2020 [Carl's Blog]
Carl merged his Woodturning Website and Blog on On 9/15/2020. They now use the same Wordpress Blog platform hosted by GoDaddy.
Leaner, Meaner & Faster - January 22, 2022 [Carl's Blog]
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.
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 (11) [category/carls-blueprints]

A Modern Lamp for any Table - August 1, 2021 [Carl's Blueprints]
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 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 Carving Stand - December 27, 2021 [Carl's Blueprints]
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 Chainsaw Bench - 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 Hand Held Laser Depth Gauge - December 26, 2022 [Carl's Blueprints]
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 Sanding Backup Pads - January 31, 2023 [Carl's Blueprints]
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 Slip On Custom Centering Cones - April 14, 2023 [Carl's Blueprints]
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 Tool Rest Design - May 29, 2020 [Carl's Blueprints]
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.
Golden Ratio Calipers - March 13, 2022 [Carl's Blueprints]
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.
Oneway Jaw Jigs - September 29, 2021 [Carl's Blueprints]
Carl's Tenon Size and Hole Size jigs for the Oneway Stronghold Chuck with #2 or #3 profiled jaws.

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.
Great Polyurethane Finishes - January 10, 2013 [Carl's Demos]
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.
Munro Hollower Demo - April 26, 2018 [Carl's Demos]
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.
Small Vases & Hollow Forms Demo - June 8, 2011 [Carl's Demos]
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 For Students (55) [category/carls-students]

Resources, Sources, Handouts, Tools, etc for Carl's Students.

1/4″ Die Grinders - April 19, 2023 [Carl's For Students]
1/4" Die Grinders that Carl owns and recommends. Big 1/4" shaft carving burs work best in an electric die grinder.
A Modern Lamp for any Table - August 1, 2021 [Carl's For Students]
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.
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.
Bosch Stabilizer Improvements - May 3, 2021 [Carl's For Students]
Three small quick and easy improvements to Trent Bosch Hollowing Tool Stabilizer.
Bowl Gouge Cleaning Wheel - October 17, 2022 [Carl's For Students]
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!
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 Carving Stand - December 27, 2021 [Carl's For Students]
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 Chainsaw Bench - 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.
Carl’s Hand Held Laser Depth Gauge - December 26, 2022 [Carl's For Students]
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 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.
Carl’s Sanding Backup Pads - January 31, 2023 [Carl's For Students]
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 Slip On Custom Centering Cones - April 14, 2023 [Carl's For Students]
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 Thread On Custom Centering Cones - January 1, 2008 [Carl's For Students]
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.
Carl’s Tool Rest Design - May 29, 2020 [Carl's For Students]
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 Travel Woodturning Tool Set - December 2, 2018 [Carl's For Students]
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 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.
Crown Verses Sorby Spiraling & Texturing Tool - April 13, 2020 [Carl's For Students]
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.
Custom Tool Handles - May 10, 2015 [Carl's For Students]
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.
D-Way Negative Rake Scraper - April 23, 2022 [Carl's For Students]
Carl likes and recommends D-Way Tools (brand) 1" Long & Strong Curved NEG Rake Scraper BM-NRS-34-LSC.
Essential Books & DVDs for Students - March 13, 2015 [Carl's For Students]
Carl's recommended and Must Have Woodturning Books and DVDs. By topic: Spindle Turning, Bowl Turning, Project Books, Picture Books, Hollow Forms, etc.
Face Shields - April 22, 2019 [Carl's For Students]
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.
Get A Grip - November 7, 2018 [Carl's For Students]
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.
Golden Ratio Calipers - March 13, 2022 [Carl's For Students]
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.
Gouge Sharpening Templates - May 17, 2013 [Carl's For Students]
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.
Lathe Shower Curtains - March 26, 2015 [Carl's For Students]
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!
Martel 4 Way Caliper - October 25, 2020 [Carl's For Students]
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!
Mounting Plates and Shallow Bowls - November 16, 2019 [Carl's For Students]
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.
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).
New Power Carving Burs 2021 - November 21, 2021 [Carl's For Students]
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.
Oneway Jaw Jigs - September 29, 2021 [Carl's For Students]
Carl's Tenon Size and Hole Size jigs for the Oneway Stronghold Chuck with #2 or #3 profiled jaws.
Paint Brushes & Acrylic Paint - October 9, 2021 [Carl's For Students]
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.
Round Ball Carving Burs - November 22, 2020 [Carl's For Students]
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?
Shopmade Collet Chuck - November 19, 2018 [Carl's For Students]
Link to Carl's "Shopmade Collet Chuck" AAW magazine article PDF. How to make your own custom collet chucks out of UHMW plastic.
Silky Landscape Saw - May 10, 2022 [Carl's For Students]
Quick Tip: Carl recommends a Silky Gomboy 210 Landscape Saw for woodturning. He uses it to cut off the tenon on woodturnings.
So you want to buy a lathe? A real lathe? - July 31, 2015 [Carl's For Students]
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.
Turning Smocks & Low Cost Alternatives - February 28, 2019 [Carl's For Students]
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.
Wolverine Grinder Jig Setup - April 8, 2020 [Carl's For Students]
Carl recommends the Wolverine Grinder Jig. It is the de facto standard! Here is how Carl recommends setting up your Wolverine.
Woodburners & Pyrography - April 28, 2013 [Carl's For Students]
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 Jigs (8) [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 Hand Held Laser Depth Gauge - December 26, 2022 [Carl's Jigs]
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.
Gouge Sharpening Templates - May 17, 2013 [Carl's Jigs]
Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "Sharpening Templates". For Ellsworth, Stirt, Jordan, and Hosaluk gouge grinds. Use with Wolverine and Ellsworth jigs.
Oneway Jaw Jigs - September 29, 2021 [Carl's Jigs]
Carl's Tenon Size and Hole Size jigs for the Oneway Stronghold Chuck with #2 or #3 profiled jaws.

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.
Carl’s Photo Studio 2018 - February 11, 2019 [Carl's Studio]
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.
Carl’s Studio July 2015 - August 2, 2015 [Carl's Studio]
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 (24) [category/carls-tools]

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.
Carl’s Carving Stand - December 27, 2021 [Carl's Tools]
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 Chainsaw Bench - 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 Downdraft Paint Booth - August 7, 2020 [Carl's Tools]
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 Modern Woodturning Tool Set - February 12, 2015 [Carl's Tools]
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 Sanding Backup Pads - January 31, 2023 [Carl's Tools]
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 Slip On Custom Centering Cones - April 14, 2023 [Carl's Tools]
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 Thread On Custom Centering Cones - January 1, 2008 [Carl's Tools]
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.
Carl’s Tool Rest Design - May 29, 2020 [Carl's Tools]
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 Travel Woodturning Tool Set - December 2, 2018 [Carl's Tools]
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 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.
Carl’s TV Hollowing Rig - November 20, 2019 [Carl's Tools]
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.
Golden Ratio Calipers - March 13, 2022 [Carl's Tools]
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.
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.
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,
More Bosch Stabilizer Holes - May 9, 2021 [Carl's Tools]
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!
Octagon Template Cuts Corners - December 28, 2021 [Carl's Tools]
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.
Short Quick Release Tool Handle - May 15, 2021 [Carl's Tools]
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.
Vacuum Chucks Demo - January 1, 2006 [Carl's Tools]
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 (6) [category/dust_collection]

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.
Lathe Shower Curtains - March 26, 2015 [Dust Collection]
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!
Linear Actuator Blast Gate (12v DC) - September 6, 2021 [Dust Collection]
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.

Finshes (12) [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.
Blue & Purple Masking Tape - July 26, 2020 [Finshes]
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.
Blue Flex Sanding Disks - November 20, 2014 [Finshes]
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.
Great Polyurethane Finishes - January 10, 2013 [Finshes]
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!
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.
Nylon Mesh Sanding Rolls (aka Synthetic Steel Wool) - September 11, 2019 [Finshes]
Carl's take on Steel Wool. Carl uses Nylon Mesh Rolls from McMaster-Carr. Part numbers for "Carl Ford" Course, Medium and Fine.
Paint Brushes & Acrylic Paint - October 9, 2021 [Finshes]
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.

Great Ideas (8) [category/great-ideas]

Bowl Gouge Cleaning Wheel - October 17, 2022 [Great Ideas]
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 Travel Woodturning Tool Set - December 2, 2018 [Great Ideas]
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.
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,
More Bosch Stabilizer Holes - May 9, 2021 [Great Ideas]
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!
Mounting Plates and Shallow Bowls - November 16, 2019 [Great Ideas]
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.
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.

Misc (7) [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?
Carl’s “MM to Inches” for Woodturners - May 28, 2021 [Misc]
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.
Hand Exercisers for Mere Mortals - January 20, 2019 [Misc]
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!
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.
Turning Smocks & Low Cost Alternatives - February 28, 2019 [Misc]
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.
Woodturning Mugs - November 13, 2022 [Misc]
Time to think about a new Woodturning Mug for Christmas.

Obsolete (1) [category/obsolete]

Stikit Sandpaper - November 20, 2014 [Obsolete]
Carl has changed to use sandpaper rolls from Klingspor for all of his hand sanding. Rather than “Porter Cable Stikit Sandpaper”

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 Modern Woodturning Tool Set - February 12, 2015 [Popular]
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.
Carl’s New Powermatic 3520C Lathe verses My Old Powermatic 3520B - March 13, 2018 [Popular]
Carl's Powermatic 3520C Lathe setup and review. Photos, experience, opinion and measurements, for people interested in purchasing a PM 3520C lathe.
Carl’s Studio July 2015 - August 2, 2015 [Popular]
Photos of Carl's Woodturning Studio. A picture is worth a thousand words.
Carl’s Travel Woodturning Tool Set - December 2, 2018 [Popular]
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.
Essential Books & DVDs for Students - March 13, 2015 [Popular]
Carl's recommended and Must Have Woodturning Books and DVDs. By topic: Spindle Turning, Bowl Turning, Project Books, Picture Books, Hollow Forms, etc.
Martel 4 Way Caliper - October 25, 2020 [Popular]
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?
So you want to buy a lathe? A real lathe? - July 31, 2015 [Popular]
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.
Turning Smocks & Low Cost Alternatives - February 28, 2019 [Popular]
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.

Projects (10) [category/projects]

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.
A Modern Lamp for any Table - August 1, 2021 [Projects]
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.
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.
Carl’s Cactus Plate Bowl - January 26, 2019 [Projects]
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.
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.

Suppliers (14) [category/suppliers]

Blue & Purple Masking Tape - July 26, 2020 [Suppliers]
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.
Blue Flex Sanding Disks - November 20, 2014 [Suppliers]
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.
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.
Green Wood Sealer - August 7, 2022 [Suppliers]
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".
McMaster-Carr - February 22, 2013 [Suppliers]
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.
Morse Taper Drills on Ebay - March 5, 2014 [Suppliers]
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.
Nylon Mesh Sanding Rolls (aka Synthetic Steel Wool) - September 11, 2019 [Suppliers]
Carl's take on Steel Wool. Carl uses Nylon Mesh Rolls from McMaster-Carr. Part numbers for "Carl Ford" Course, Medium and Fine.
Paint Brushes & Acrylic Paint - October 9, 2021 [Suppliers]
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.
Power Carving Textures - January 8, 2017 [Suppliers]
Carl's take on carving textures with Reciprocating and Rotary Power Carving Tools. Recommended Burrs, Gouges, Layout, Cleaning up with Bristle Discs, etc.
RG45 Gas Welding Rod - November 12, 2021 [Suppliers]
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 (14) [category/tools-carving]

1/4″ Die Grinders - April 19, 2023 [Tools Carving]
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.
Awesome Big Carving Burs - September 3, 2022 [Tools Carving]
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.
Carl’s Carving Stand - December 27, 2021 [Tools Carving]
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 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.
Cleaning Power Carving Burs - May 1, 2023 [Tools Carving]
Carl uses CMT Formula 2050 Bland and Bit Cleaner to clean my 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".
New Power Carving Burs 2021 - November 21, 2021 [Tools Carving]
Carl discovers and reviews Manpa Concave Eye Cutters, Manpa Mini Triangle & Round Cutters, Rotary Chisels, and Maillefer Concave Cutter Burrs.
Power Carving Textures - January 8, 2017 [Tools Carving]
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.
Round Ball Carving Burs - November 22, 2020 [Tools Carving]
Good, but not great, round ball carving burs from Rio Grande. 3/16" and bigger.
Sanding Wheel Brush - November 9, 2019 [Tools Carving]
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 (11) [category/tools-chucks]

Best Drive Center - November 14, 2014 [Tools Chucks]
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.
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.
Collet Chucks - March 19, 2013 [Tools Chucks]
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.
Foam Cole Jaws - April 8, 2019 [Tools Chucks]
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.
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.
Mounting Plates and Shallow Bowls - November 16, 2019 [Tools Chucks]
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.
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.
SC1 & SC2 Mini 4 Jaw Scroll Chucks - March 10, 2023 [Tools Chucks]
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.
Shopmade Collet Chuck - November 19, 2018 [Tools Chucks]
Link to Carl's "Shopmade Collet Chuck" AAW magazine article PDF. How to make your own custom collet chucks out of UHMW plastic.

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 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.
Circle Center Finder - March 21, 2020 [Tools Jigs]
Quick Tip: Good price on 10" Round Center Finder on Amazon. Works good. Fairly well made out of 1/8" plexi with good printed lines that do not scratch off to easily.
Martel 4 Way Caliper - October 25, 2020 [Tools Jigs]
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.
Wolverine Grinder Jig Setup - April 8, 2020 [Tools Jigs]
Carl recommends the Wolverine Grinder Jig. It is the de facto standard! Here is how Carl recommends setting up your Wolverine.

Tools Lathes (14) [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.
A Great Little Lathe Review - May 12, 2010 [Tools Lathes]
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.
Carl’s New Powermatic 2014 Lathe Stand - April 18, 2021 [Tools Lathes]
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.
Carl’s New Powermatic 3520C Lathe verses My Old Powermatic 3520B - March 13, 2018 [Tools Lathes]
Carl's Powermatic 3520C Lathe setup and review. Photos, experience, opinion and measurements, for people interested in purchasing a PM 3520C lathe.
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.
Revolutionary New 110 Volt Lathes - August 15, 2020 [Tools Lathes]
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
So you want to buy a lathe? A real lathe? - July 31, 2015 [Tools Lathes]
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 (16) [category/tools-machines]

Bosch Stabilizer Improvements - May 3, 2021 [Tools Machines]
Three small quick and easy improvements to Trent Bosch Hollowing Tool Stabilizer.
Bowl Gouge Cleaning Wheel - October 17, 2022 [Tools Machines]
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 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.
CBN Grinder Wheels - March 19, 2020 [Tools Machines]
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.
Low Cost Industrial Bench Grinder - January 27, 2013 [Tools Machines]
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.
More Bosch Stabilizer Holes - May 9, 2021 [Tools Machines]
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!
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.
Red Box Heater & Blue Blower - February 8, 2013 [Tools Machines]
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.
Two Quick “Oneway” Improvements - February 2, 2013 [Tools Machines]
Quick Tips: 1. Use a Longer Bar on Oneway Chuck Handle. 2. Add a Shaft Collar to Wolverine Vee-Arm
Woodburners & Pyrography - April 28, 2013 [Tools Machines]
Carl's take on the best Woodburners, Tips, & Books for woodturners. What he recommends for his students.
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.

Tools Misc (7) [category/tools-misc]

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
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.
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.
Morse Taper Drills on Ebay - March 5, 2014 [Tools Misc]
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.
Roman Carbide Forstner Drill Bits - September 8, 2023 [Tools Misc]
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.
Silky Landscape Saw - May 10, 2022 [Tools Misc]
Quick Tip: Carl recommends a Silky Gomboy 210 Landscape Saw for woodturning. He uses it to cut off the tenon on woodturnings.

Tools Sanding (17) [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.
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!
Blue Flex Sanding Disks - November 20, 2014 [Tools Sanding]
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 Sanding Backup Pads - January 31, 2023 [Tools Sanding]
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.
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.
Hang Up your Power Sanding Drills - October 28, 2017 [Tools Sanding]
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".
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.
Mirka Autonet Sandpaper - March 31, 2020 [Tools Sanding]
Carl recommends Mirka Autonet Sandpaper rather than Abranet. Autonet is virtually the same and cheaper. Autonet makes sanding WET wood possible!
Nylon Mesh Sanding Rolls (aka Synthetic Steel Wool) - September 11, 2019 [Tools Sanding]
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.
Sanding Wheel Brush - November 9, 2019 [Tools Sanding]
Carl recommends “Sanding Wheel Brushes” from McMaster-Carr. They are a good alternative to the “3M Radial Bristle Discs”. Cheaper & last longer.

Tools Studio (6) [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.
Face Shields - April 22, 2019 [Tools Studio]
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.
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.
Lathe Shower Curtains - March 26, 2015 [Tools Studio]
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!
Ram Board Workbench Cover - February 27, 2015 [Tools Studio]
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.

Turning Tools (19) [category/turning-tools]

Better Bolt for Munro Hollower II - November 25, 2018 [Turning Tools]
Carl recommends a Low Head Socket Head Cap Screw from McMaster. It works better than the cap screw shipped with Munro Hollower II.
Bosch Stabilizer Improvements - May 3, 2021 [Turning Tools]
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 Modern Woodturning Tool Set - February 12, 2015 [Turning Tools]
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 Travel Woodturning Tool Set - December 2, 2018 [Turning Tools]
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 TV Hollowing Rig - November 20, 2019 [Turning Tools]
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.
Crown Verses Sorby Spiraling & Texturing Tool - April 13, 2020 [Turning Tools]
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.
Custom Tool Handles - May 10, 2015 [Turning Tools]
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.
D-Way Negative Rake Scraper - April 23, 2022 [Turning Tools]
Carl likes and recommends D-Way Tools (brand) 1" Long & Strong Curved NEG Rake Scraper BM-NRS-34-LSC.
Gouge Sharpening Templates - May 17, 2013 [Turning Tools]
Link to Carl's PDF handout for his "Sharpening Templates". For Ellsworth, Stirt, Jordan, and Hosaluk gouge grinds. Use with Wolverine and Ellsworth jigs.
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.
More Bosch Stabilizer Holes - May 9, 2021 [Turning Tools]
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!
Munro Carbide Cutter - November 8, 2017 [Turning Tools]
Carl's recommends using low cost carbide cutters from "Az Carbide". Carbide cutters are a great investment because they speed up your learning process.
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.
New Ring Tool - December 20, 2018 [Turning Tools]
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.
Short Quick Release Tool Handle - May 15, 2021 [Turning Tools]
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.
Turning Tools Bag - October 2, 2014 [Turning Tools]
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.
New Ring Tool - December 20, 2018 [Videos]
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 191 posts in Carl's blog. Posts may be assigned to more than one category. Currently there are 29 categories on this page with 349 posts.

Website & Blog Pages (19)

Welcome to Carl's Website & Blog - May 8, 2022 [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.
CarlFordWoodturner on Instagram - May 30, 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 30, 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 - May 30, 2022 [Website Pages]
Carl is "CarlFordWoodturner" on Pinterest. He is also "CarlFordWoodturner" on Etsy, Instagram and Facebook!
Photo Gallery of Carl's Wood Art - May 6, 2022 [Website Pages]
Links to Carl's Artwork on his "CarlFordWoodturner" Instagram page and his "CarlFordWoodturner" Etsy shop.
Pinterest Gallery of Carl's Wood Art - February 4, 2023 [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.
Carl' Woodturning Blog Intro - April 19, 2023 [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 - November 7, 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 - July 4, 2022 [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 - July 4, 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 Post by Category - NO Thumbnails - July 4, 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.
Subscribe to Carl's Woodturning Blog - May 28, 2021 [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 Classes & Calendar - August 30, 2023 [Website Pages]
Calendar of Woodturning Classes taught by Carl Ford and events (symposiums, shows, etc.) that Carl will be attending.
Carl's Woodturning Studio - January 22, 2022 [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 - May 11, 2022 [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 - January 17, 2021 [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 28, 2023 [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]
Kaatskill Woodturners - August 20, 2023 [Website Pages]
The Kaatskill Woodturners have moved there club info and events to the "Groupworks Club Management Platform" at https://app.groupworks.com/#/groups/996/posts