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Ha, yes sharp tools are definitely the answer!
I looked into it and worked out that there were essentially 4 options:
- A Robert Sorby Pro-Edge, which is basically the easiest to use, but comes with a high initial outlay
- Next stage down seems to be something like an axminster or tormek, which are basically water cooled stones with in built clamps, this is the option I wanted to go for, but they were all out of stock when I was looking
- next stage down is a standard grinder (pref slow turning with a white stone) with jigs, this is the option I went for, using a cheap axminster bench grinder, with jigs from ebay , he has put his prices up, but I am sure there are alternatives out there, or you can probably make your own up. I think I spent about £120 all in, and built a little stand to put it all on, so it is always there ready to go.
- Cheapest option is to get a grinder and just freehand, I think you probably need to be pretty skilled to do this, and well beyond my highly limited ability!
- A Robert Sorby Pro-Edge, which is basically the easiest to use, but comes with a high initial outlay
Sam_w
So after procrastinating for a long time when the tuition got cancelled because of covid, and after killing time by building a bench for the lathe, a rack for the tools, etc etc, I've eventually got the nerve up to turn the lathe on.
I've just finished my third bowl, it's going fairly well though I'm spending a lot more time sanding than I need to due to bad tool technique, but I'm getting there.
@Sam_w tell me more about your sharpening setup. I've got to the point now where my tools are categorically dull and I can't put it off any more!