Segmented Wood Turning (Schiffer Book for Woodworkers)

I started Woodturnig two years ago at the age of 82 and have been very successful at local shows with my segmented bowls. I have been attracted to views of open segmented turning so I purchased a book on the subject by William Smith. The contents are so easy to follow and in great detail, so I made all of his suggested jigs and my first attempt at construction was straight forward without hiccups. This book is a must for any aspiring turner.

At first blush, you might say that it's impossible to turn something on a lathe that has this many holes in it. But once you stop to consider, you realize that it not only can be done, but it will get a lot of ohs and awes from those that see your finished work. There are step by step full-color photos and instructions guiding you in cutting, assembling, and turning the projects along with a large photo selection of items that you can pattern. There are tables informing the segment length and cutting angle for numerous number of segment/ring. There are multiple templates with instruction so you can cut out (or better yet, preserve your book and make copies of them) and use them as gauges for proper placement of each piece of wood as you build up the rows. One weakness I observed is that the author is not very good at either teaching nor documenting how to build the fixtures needed. If you already are experienced at making your own slide tables for your table saw, you may or may not be interested in his adjustable angle slide. Just don't expect any help from the author's written description or photos. And the jig you need to construct to get the proper spacing between two consecutive pieces can be very frustrating to construct. Especially, until you realize that you are looking at pictures at least three separate, unrelated fixtures. But, if you muddle through, you will be pleased with what you can do. While, perhaps not for the faint hearted, it is a worthy addition to any wood turners library.

This is a well presented book. I think it is the best segment wood turning book I have read. The directions and the photos match perfectly and clearly. I recommend this book to anybody who wishes to venture out into open segmenting wood turning. Congratulations to the author who is available to answer any queries.

Here is an chance to step outside the box. When wood turning, I think of a solid piece of wood on a lathe. Here is a project and examples on how to take a bunch of small pieces, spaced equally apart (per row) and slowly build a rough, hollow form. It is amazing to watch this come together. Taking this trick and applying it to other types of designs will help anyone develope a style or a new way to turn a form. If you have the time, give this book a try. You will have some educational fun.

Good book. It does deal only with open segmented turning. Very informative for wood turners who are wanting to begin or get better.

I was intrigued by the possibility of turning a bowl with "holes" in it, so I purchased this book. Mostly out of curiosity... "How do they do that?" was my question. This book shows the process in very helpful steps with good pictures and jig ideas. It's not my "go-to" book for wood turning by any means, because the open segmented style is not my favorite. But I do intend to add some of these elements to my turning over time. I'm glad I bought the book.

Good directions and fabulous photos. You will not be disappointed if you purchase this book to get started in the art of segmented turned bowls.

Many pictures showing steps in the woodturning process . Would recommend to anyone with a background in woodturning who wants to expand their skills.

Great details, fantastic information.

well done easy to follow good direction and nice model

"Segmented Wood Turning" by William Smith. Had a lot of good information and good instruction and idea for further project

I would recommend this item, nice book , lots to do easy to understand, good value for money, thank you

Bought as a present for father in law. A quick flick through showed a well balanced book that, for wood turners of all skill levels, should prove invaluable. Product arrived well packaged and promptly.