To Shape the Interior of a Bowl

1.Stop the lathe and move the tailstock away. Remove the center from the tailstock to prevent bumping it with your elbow.

2.Adjust the tool support in front of the bowl just below the centerline, at a right angle to the lathe bed.

3.Rotate the workpiece by hand to check the clearance.

4.Face off the top of the bowl by making a light shearing cut across the workpiece, from rim to center.

5.Place the 1/2" bowl gouge on the tool rest at the center of the workpiece with the flute facing the top of the bowl. The tool handle should be level and pointed toward four o'clock, see Figure 22.

6.Use your left hand to control the cutting edge of the gouge, while your right hand swings the tool handle around towards your body, see Figure 22.

The flute should start out facing the top of the workpiece, and rotate upward as it moves deeper into the bowl to maintain a clean even curve.

As the tool goes deeper into bowl, progressively work out toward the rim. It may be necessary to turn the tool rest into the workpiece, as you get deeper into the bowl.

Note: Try to make one, very light continuous movement from the rim to the bottom of the bowl to ensure a clean, sweeping curve through the workpiece. Should there be a few small ridges remaining, a light cut with a large domed scraper can even out the surface.

7.Develop the wall thickness at the rim and maintain it as you work deeper into the bowl. When the interior is finished, move the tool support to the exterior to re-define the bottom of the bowl. General rule of thumb: the base should be approximately 1/3 the overall diameter of the bowl.

8.Work the tight area around the faceplate or chuck with 1/4" bowl gouge.

Sanding and Finishing a Bowl

1.Remove the tool rest and begin with a fine grit sandpaper (120 grit) and progress through each grit, using only light pressure.

Coarser sandpaper tends to leave deep scratches that are hard to eliminate. Use power-sanding techniques to avoid concentric sanding marks around your finished piece. Avoid rounding over the rim and foot with sandpaper. Try to keep the details crisp. Finish sanding with 220 grit.

2.Remove sanding dust with tack rags, or compressed air and, with the lathe turned off, apply the first coat of finish. Let it stand for several minutes and wipe off the excess. Allow it to dry before sanding again with 320 or 400 grit sandpaper.

3.Turn lathe back on and make a separation cut through the base. Stop at about 3" and use a small fine tooth saw to separate the bowl from the waste.

4.Apply additional finish coats and allow to dry before buffing.

Figure 22

JWL-1442VS specifications

The Jet Tools JWL-1442VS is a robust wood lathe designed for both novice and experienced woodturners. Known for its versatility and reliability, it has become a go-to choice for many who seek to create intricate designs. This lathe combines advanced technology with user-friendly features, making it suitable for crafting everything from simple spindle work to complex bowls and detailed ornaments.

One of the standout features of the JWL-1442VS is its variable speed control, allowing users to adjust the speed from 40 to 3200 RPM. This range provides the flexibility needed for different turning projects, ensuring optimal performance for both roughing and finishing tasks. The digital readout on the control panel displays the current speed, making it easy for users to monitor and adjust as needed.

Another notable characteristic is its 14-inch swing over the bed and 42 inches between centers. This generous capacity enables woodturners to work with larger pieces of stock while maintaining precision and stability. The sturdy cast iron construction of the lathe adds to its durability, absorbing vibrations and providing a solid base for safe operation.

The JWL-1442VS also features a sliding headstock, which enhances accessibility and allows for outboard turning. This capability is particularly beneficial when working on larger bowls or wide pieces, as it provides additional room and maneuverability. The tailstock features a convenient lockable design that promotes secure positioning and easy adjustments.

In addition to its mechanical advantages, this wood lathe is equipped with Jet's innovative quick-release spindle lock. This feature enables users to quickly change out chucks and accessories, reducing downtime and increasing productivity. The machine’s ease of use is complemented by its user-friendly controls and intuitive design.

Safety is also a priority with the JWL-1442VS, featuring a built-in safety switch that helps prevent accidental starts. This attention to safety ensures that woodturners can focus on their craft without unnecessary concerns.

In conclusion, the Jet Tools JWL-1442VS is a versatile and powerful wood lathe that caters to a wide range of turning needs. With its advanced variable speed control, robust construction, and thoughtful features, it stands out as an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their woodturning experience. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, the JWL-1442VS promises to deliver performance and reliability for countless turning projects.