Segmented Wooden Bowl (Intro Level)

Article 141: Segmented Wooden Bowl (Intro Level)

By: A Woodworker Who Loves the Lathe

Segmented bowls let you use small scraps to create striking designs. This simple 6-segment ring bowl is a great place to start.

Materials

• Hardwood strips (1" × 1" × 12") in contrasting colors:

  • Walnut, maple, cherry

• Wood glue

• Sandpaper

• Food-safe finish (e.g., walnut oil)

Tools Needed

• Lathe and bowl gouge

• Miter saw with accurate angle setting

• Clamps

• Disc sander or sanding block

• Calipers (for checking wall thickness)

Steps

1. Cut Segments

   • Cut 6 segments at 30° each to make a ring (6 × 60° angles).

2. Glue Ring

   • Clamp carefully with a band clamp. Make 3–4 rings of varying wood species.

3. Stack and Glue

   • Once rings are dry and sanded flat, stack them with glue between each ring. Clamp vertically.

4. Turn on the Lathe

   • Mount between centers or on a faceplate. Shape bowl exterior first, then hollow the inside.

5. Sand and Finish

   • Sand to 400 grit. Apply food-safe oil or finish.

Diagram – Ring Pattern Top View

     _______
   /   |   |   \ ← alternating segments
  |____|___|___|