ORNAMENTAL  JIG

THIS IS A DECORATIVE TOOLING RIG. It uses simplified Ornamental Turning Techniques to decorate or shape the work.

        

        

        

        

Ornamental Turning was described as " The British Method " of complete turning. It uses Rotary Cutters to shape the work. It was developed as a suitable hobby for a gentleman (or Lady) in Victorian times. By the 1950’s the craft had nearly died out but a few enthusiasts kept the skills alive. With the increasing interest in woodcrafts’ there are now hundreds of people around the world practicing Ornamental Turning and similar techniques.

The Tooling Rig can be used for Swash Turning where the work moves backwards and forwards as it rotates, guided by a Swash Plate. Many patterns are produced by "Indexing" the work in a series of positions, with a cut at each point. A well equipped O.T. lathe costs thousands of pounds. This tooling rig has cost under £400 (so far). The equipment is still being developed. A lot of accessories are still in a very improvised form.

Tuition or collaboration on projects are available to club members at our workshop.  This turning jig has been built by Steve Ellis one of our skilful members. Should any one wish to ask questions of Steve please forward them to us via our Email address visitors page.

                           UPDATED FRIDAY  20th  JUNE  2008