Question: I am getting ripples on the inside of my bowls when I'm turning. Can you help me?
Answer: Due to the different densities of early wood (fast growing
and less dense) and late wood (slower growing/more dense), achieving
a nice, fair and smooth inner surface on bowls can sometimes be a
challenge. While more pronounced in some wood species than others,
the varying density between early and late wood makes it difficult
for the cutting tool to cut evenly. The tool cuts easier (and just
slightly deeper) into the soft grain and not as deeply into the
harder grain and you end up with ripples or bumps.
To lessen
this effect, keep your cutting tool extremely sharp and use a light
touch as you make your cuts. Pushing hard with a dull tool will only
cause the tool to penetrate deeper into the soft grain, yet you will
still encounter resistance in the harder grain and will end up with
a less than smooth surface.
Whether you are cutting from the
center out to the rim or from the rim to the center, always start
the cut as if it were your last cut. Each cut should be a finish
cut. Each cut should be a non-pressure cut. If you finesse the tool
(perform light cuts with minimum pressure), you will produce clean,
smooth cuts and you will not have to sand as
much.