A Letter from Michael Mocho – Woodturning Demonstration details:
At Bow River in Chilliwack, BC
Saturday October 20th, 2018 starting at 9:00 am ($40/$35 in advance)
http://mmocho.com/
“Here is a rough draft of what I am planning to present at the demo:
My general approach for this type of program is to first provide several samples of the techniques I plan to demonstrate so people will have an overview of all the topics. I will produce several demonstration pieces, though my goal is not to produce a perfect finished object- there will be little if any sanding demonstrated. We will attempt to maximize the presentation of information, address questions, clarify details, and will also incorporate a brief morning break in addition to the mid-day lunch break.
I like to start off preparing a blank with the skew, which is the best way to begin explaining all the factors involved in getting the right cutting action. With every tool, I describe the cutting dynamics involved, and the importance of material selection, mounting methods, lathe adjustments, effective grip, proper stance and movement that all contribute to the best form and surface quality.
I will then introduce the first of many examples of decorative texture: chatterwork- but done without any commercial chatter tools- that can be accomplished by simply by controlling a few important variables. I demonstrate why many turner’s attempts at getting crisp details tend to fail, and explain how to get the optimal results. Other textures such as indexed embossing, knurling, shred-cutting, moire patterns, and stippling will be demonstrated. These textures can add visual interest to your work, if used with some restraint.
The vehicle for these techniques will be a three-piece top, which also allows for introducing simple and useful strategies for quickly joining parts together with friction-fit connections that can be done without measuring. Tips for safe and accurate drilling on the lathe will also be presented.
After preparing a box blank, I will demonstrate a simple technique for turning out the interiors efficiently, and how to create a flawless interior surface. I will also introduce some basic thread-chasing techniques, but will save a longer description of the critical details for later. The resulting lidded box will also receive a finial, which is an opportunity to describe some effective ways of designing turned forms and strategies for turning to a specific profile pattern. I have a lot of information to draw on given my background as a full time furniture maker and contract turner. If there is time I would like to show images of my finished work.
Along the way will be information regarding shear scraping techniques and making simple tools to get the best possible surface quality to minimize sanding. Sharpening strategies will be included at several points during the demonstration. One of the tools I am frequently asked to demonstrate is the Sorby spiraling and texture tools, and I have lots of details to share – I have been working with these tools for over 20 years, and have learned to spiral some forms that I have not seen replicated.
I would also like to demonstrate some shaping techniques that employ a simple shop-made attachment that greatly expands the capabilities of the lathe, and there will be many samples to illustrate how modifying turned forms can lead to some interesting design opportunities and provide a personal touch to otherwise bland forms.
I hope to include some other techniques that I have been exploring, and look forward to the discussion with local turners.
Regards,
Michael Mocho”