Learn to Turn

Learn to Turn

Beginning Turning Classes

We have a maximum of 10 and a minimum of 5 students per class. You will receive a lot of individual attention. Classes are conducted on an ad hoc basis and scheduled once we have the minimum of 5 students enrolled.  Classes are conducted on two consecutive Saturdays.  Send an email to Dwayne Watt to obtain more information.

Outline of classes

Day 1 Morning

Introduction to the Lathe, Personal Safety Techniques, Equipment, Tools, Holding Tools, Body Position, Habits.

Learning to cut small beads and coves.

Tools: Roughing Gouge, Parting tool, 3/8” Spindle Gouge or 3/8”, Bowl Gouge.

Project: Beads & Coves

Day 1 Afternoon

Review of Safe Procedures, Holding tools, Body Position.

Cutting larger, smoother, beads and coves. 

Tools: Roughing Gouge, Parting Tool, 3/8 or 1/2” Spindle or Bowl Gouges.

Projects: Make a Christmas Tree.  Make a honey dipper.

Day 2 Morning

Review of Safe Procedures

Platter design, shaping, making smooth cuts.

Tools: Same as Class 1 and 2 + round nose or bowl scraper 

Project: Make a small platter—additional methods to attach wood to the lathe.

Day 2 Afternoon

Review of Safety. Review of cuts.

Project:  Turning a Small bowl from green wood - Additional methods to attach wood to the lathe

How to join the class

  1. You must be a member of NEOWTA to take the classes.
    The current membership dues are $60 for individual and $100 for immediate family (spouse or 1 child)  
  2. We conduct the four class sessions over two consecutive Saturdays.
  3. The cost for the classes is $150. This includes all materials.  This is very inexpensive as wood turning classes go. The full cost is payable before the beginning of the first class.
  4. People who have taken the class previously have appreciated the instructors and the feeling of confidence that they gained from the experience. Even if you have some self taught experience, it is likely that you will benefit from this class because you will benefit from not needing to make all the mistakes yourself.
  5. All classes are in the NEOWTA (heated and air-conditioned!) classroom at 10117 E 50th St in Tulsa using one of our full sized lathes. All wood, tools, and equipment required for the class will be furnished--even sandpaper!
  6. Classes are conducted from 8:30 to 4:00 on the scheduled Saturdays.
  7. The instructors are experienced and will demonstrate each step prior to student practice.
  8. Safety is emphasized throughout all classes. We want you to go home with something that you made, not a lump or cut!
  9. Students are expected to clean up their work stations at the end of each class
  10. We have been using the same basic curriculum for the past several years but our teaching techniques continue to evolve and improve based on feedback from previous students. We want you to be comfortable and we want you to learn.

Contact Dwayne Watt  if you are interested in this class.