Handling a SK Flexcut

[CarverFromNoWhere]

Here it is a step by step with pictures on how to turn a custom handle for a Flexcut SK series tool. The tool is a #9 9/16" that I have sharpened at 35 degrees and bent for spoon carving.

The materials, blank for handle I am using a 1 1/2" square x 4" long of Masur Birch, the dowel is 1/2" diameter Birch x 1/8" longer then the tools shank.

First cut the handle blank and dowel, mark the centers on the handle blank, drill a 1/2" hole as deep as the dowel is long, cut a slot in the dowel just short of the end, I did this by hand with a Japanese pull saw which has a kerf the same thickness as the Flexcut's shank.

Test fit the set up and mount the handle blank on the lathe, Rough turn the blank I shortened the handle on the lathe to 3 3/4".
Carl

[CarverFromNoWhere]

Sand the handle I went from 120-600 grit and then finished it with beeswax applied by hand. Cut the nub off the end near the headstock of the lathe and sand the end of the handle smooth.

I have added a flat to the handle with my edge sander this will also provide an area to mark the tool. Sand the flat smooth and finish area with the same finish used on the rest of it.

Add some glue or epoxy of choice to the shank of the tool and the dowel (A tip is to rough the tools shank up with some 80 grit sandpaper, helps the glue stick) then push it into the hole for a snug fit and our done.

Take some pictures and post them so everyone can enjoy your new custom handled Flexcut tool .
Carl

[Robby]

Very nice tutorial. Even for those without a lathe, this is a good way to make your own handle.

[gene-messer]

Way to go Carl ! .... Keep it up .. showing off your skills is a plus to all of us here .. keep it up

Gene

[TreeWizard]

It actually looks like something I might be able to do. Thank You.

[Aa Smokey]

Very good explanation, nice (and quick )work there. I also like the Kolrosing on the handle, or is that just marks. Oh and yes -so much in such a short time.

[Dennis Taylor]

Thanks for the great tutorial, when the snow settles, I will turn one and post pic...got 1 question, looks like you put a brass pin into the handle also, does that serve a purpose or just decorative?....if for support, does the pin need to go thru the hole in the sk tang?....tks again...great pics on the gallery also, the rolling pins are reallly great!!!!!...Dennis

[CarverFromNoWhere]

I wondered if anyone would notice the pin , I put it there for extra strength and it does go through the hole in the tools shank. I lined it up and drilled the 1/8" hole while the blank was still square.
Carl

[Iowa Carver]

That's a beautiful tool there Carl, nice job!

Corey

[Dennis Taylor]

Well now I got the plans, got the wood, got the lathe, got the sk tool, but can't make a path out to the shop to turn!....I am not IRISH that is for sure....ha ha ha....Winter in Northeastern Ohio!...Dennis