Turning a Decorative Wooden Bowl

Article 116: Turning a Decorative Wooden Bowl

By: A Woodworker Who Thinks a Lathe Is a Kind of Magic

Turning a shallow bowl from a hardwood blank is satisfying and a perfect gift or centerpiece.

Materials

• 6" × 6" × 2" hardwood blank (cherry, maple, walnut)

• Food-safe finish: beeswax/mineral oil blend or salad bowl finish

Tools Needed

• Lathe

• Bowl gouge

• Scraper

• Chuck with bowl jaws

• Calipers

• Sandpaper (120–400 grit)

Steps

1. Mount the Blank

   • Use faceplate or chuck. Ensure it’s balanced.

2. Rough Outside Shape

   • Form the outer curve and base using a bowl gouge.

3. Shape Inside

   • Hollow to desired depth, using light, even cuts.

4. Sand and Finish

   • Work up to 400 grit and apply food-safe finish.

Sketch – Bowl Cross-Section

Side View:
  _________
 /         \    ← Thin rim
|           |
 \_________/
   ↑
 Shallow curve inside and out