Once the backside of the wood has been flattened, you can begin to level the surface. Start with the bowl gouge, then you can switch to a square-ended scraper. You can use a straightedge to check if the surface is properly leveled. When you are ready to turn the plate to its open side, first make sure the center area is completely flat. This will make it easier to mount the faceplate
Now you can use the bowl gouge to shape the backside of the rim of the plate. Measure out and mark a center circle on the back of the plate. Install the faceplate on the central circle. Using a high strength double-faced tape, trim the tape to match the faceplate.
Fix these together to enable you to turn the plate securely, till you are happy with the shape. You can now complete the rim. Depending on the style of plate you wish to create. From the rim carve into the plate, working your way into the center. You may want to switch to a square-ended scraper tool to level off the surface. You can now sand that side of the plate.
Slowly remove the plate from the faceplate. Be sure to remove any tape residue that remains with a mineral spirit. You can now send the backside of the plate by hand for a thorough finish. If you would like your plate to be used in the kitchen, you will need to use a food-safe oil finish. Pure tung oil or walnut oil is a great choice. You will need at least 4 coats of this.
Regardless of whichever method you prefer to use to make your plate, it will require practice. The great thing is that it’s easy to get your hand on offcuts of woods to practice with.
There are many other ways to make a wooden plate using a wood lathe. Whichever method you choose will require a fair bit of practice before you can really get the best result. Another great thing is that your friends and family will have a good collection of wobbly, chipped and dented beautifully unique wooden plates!
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