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10. BASIC WOOD TURNING
10.9 USING A SKEW CHISEL - FIGS. 29 - 32
Two skew chisels 12, 25mm are all that are required for
general use although other sizes are available (refer to
Draper Catalogue). This chisel is used mostly for making
finished cuts, to cut vees and beads and square shoulders.
When correctly used, it will produce the best finish that
can be obtained with a chisel. It should not be used for
scraping as this will quickly dull it.
For finish cutting, the skew should be held with the
cutting edge considerably in advance of the handle and
should be bevel against the work. Good practice is to
place the skew well over the workpiece and pull it back
until the edge begins to cut; then swing the handle into
position to advance the cut. Both the toe and the heel of
the skew can be used for making light cuts; but do not
penetrate the wood too deeply without cutting clearances
as you may burn the tip of the tool. Refer to Figs.29, 30,
31, 32 & 33.
FIG.29
FIG.30
FIG.31
FIG.33
FIG.32
Swing tool
Pull back
Path of cut
Direction of cut
Using toe
Using heel
No support
Edge does not cut
