query: turning cork

[fishermen fred]

on my recent attempts i have found that after turning on a 4mm threaded bar that upon reaming out it had gone out of shape some what. if i use a larger mandrel will this alleviate the probelem or is there some thing else i should try reaming was done with a rat tooth file. cheers fred

[Mark Fisher]

Fred,

I ream my cork rings to fit either a 3/8" or 1/2 " mandrel. I glue them together using Selley's quick Grip and turn each ring to gethe the best coverage while the glue is still wet, I clamp the whole grip overnight and then put it in my lathe and turn it at high speed using different grade sandpapers to get the finish I want. If I'm turning exotic burl cork, I use a heavier grade sandpaper than I would if I was turning AAA cork. I coat mine with Tru-oil and rub between coats with steel wool. This gives a real gloss finish with a lot of depth but it doesn't affect the "gripiness" of the handle at all. Then ream out the handle to fit where you want it positioned. Go slow and be sure to get the optimum fit.


Regards
Mark

[grave41]

HI, I glue mine together on a threaded bar first using Z Poxy then take it off and put it on a piece of dowel or straight on the blank and lathe it there.Comes out sweet.
Graham

[RFARREN]

Easiest way i find to do cork grips is to use a old screwdriver and a long quick-grip
also i use "av515"adhesive,it is waterproof,dries in about 1/2 and hour and is clear