In order to be sure I am far enough from the screw tips to fit in a parting tool, I check the distance with a spare screw I keep by the lathe.
In order to be sure I am far enough from the screw tips to fit in a parting tool, I check the distance with a spare screw I keep by the lathe.
Being deep enough for the screws, I part well in to establish the desired bowl bottom. Establishing the diameter helps the eye direct the cutting lines for the final form.
Moving to the top of the bowl, I establish the center and drill a hole to within a half inch of the bottom. I could drill all the way but I like to leave room for changes as necessary. There is no way to know what splits, cracks or other problems may be waiting.
The inside of the bowl is turned away. Even though I use a hook tool for the task, there are few shavings due to the nature of the spalting of this wood.