Module 3: Assessment Quiz
Module: U7M3 - Spindle Turning Techniques
Duration: 20-30 minutes
Passing Score: 70%
What is the first operation performed when turning a square spindle blank on the lathe?
Explanation: Roughing is always the first operation. The spindle roughing gouge removes the corners of the square blank to create a round cylinder, which is the starting point for all subsequent shaping operations.
When roughing a square blank to round, where on the tool rest should the roughing gouge be positioned?
Explanation: Begin roughing at one end of the blank and work along its length in overlapping passes. This ensures even material removal and prevents the tool from catching on a corner that has not yet been rounded.
What is a "cove" in spindle turning?
Explanation: A cove is a concave (hollowed) curve cut into the spindle surface, typically created with a spindle gouge. It is one of the fundamental decorative shapes in spindle turning, often combined with beads and fillets.
Which tool is traditionally used to cut beads on a spindle?
Explanation: The skew chisel is the traditional bead-cutting tool. The long point (toe) of the skew is used to define the bead edges, and the blade is rolled to form the convex curve. A spindle gouge can also cut beads but with less precision.
What is a "planing cut" with the skew chisel?
Explanation: The planing cut uses the lower portion of the skew edge (near the heel) with the bevel riding the wood surface. The tool is held at approximately 45° to the axis and moved along the spindle. It produces the smoothest possible surface directly from the tool, often eliminating the need for sanding.
When cutting a cove with a spindle gouge, where should the cut begin?
Explanation: Coves are always cut from the rim down to the bottom. Starting at the top and rolling the gouge as you descend ensures you are cutting with the grain (downhill) and the bevel supports the cut. Cutting uphill from the bottom causes tearout.
What is the purpose of using a parting tool to establish reference diameters before shaping a spindle?
Explanation: Before shaping beads, coves, and other features, the turner uses the parting tool with calipers to cut grooves to specific diameters at key reference points. This ensures the finished piece matches the design dimensions.
What does "cutting downhill" mean in spindle turning?
Explanation: In spindle turning, "downhill" means cutting from a larger diameter toward a smaller diameter. This direction follows the grain fibers and produces a clean cut. Cutting "uphill" (from smaller to larger diameter) tears the fibers and leaves a rough surface.
What is a "pommel" in spindle turning?
Explanation: A pommel is the shoulder where round turning meets a square section, commonly seen on furniture legs where the square section provides a flat mortise surface. Pommels are typically cut with a skew chisel or parting tool and require careful technique to avoid splitting the corners.
When sanding on the lathe, what is the safe technique for holding sandpaper?
Explanation: Never wrap sandpaper around your fingers—it can catch and pull fingers into the spinning workpiece. Hold a folded pad of sandpaper against the workpiece with light pressure, or use a dedicated sanding block. Never wear gloves near the lathe.
What grit sequence is recommended for sanding a turned spindle?
Explanation: Sanding progresses from coarser to finer grits, with each grit removing the scratches from the previous one. Starting at 120-150 removes tool marks efficiently without being so coarse it creates deep scratches. Each successive grit should be approximately 1.5x finer than the previous.