Music Box Lid: Chip carving

The music box project is progressing along as planned.

I got to the point where the lid was turned.

I was pleased with the lid but realized that some surface treatment would add a nice touch.

So I went back to SketchUp and modeled a pattern to carve on the lid.

IT WAS EASY TO DO:

• Draw out a circle the size of the lid, this also provides a drawing plane
• Add an internal circle that matches the center (not to be carved) of the lid.
• Divide the circle up with the protractor into four quadrants
• Use SketchUp drawing tools to make a pattern in one quadrant
• Then copy and flip it into the other quadrants.
• Print full size
• Lay over lid and trace the pattern with graphite paper
• Carve away!

Soon I will post the completed project on turnedoutright.

Donnie

Tip: 3D story sticks

Last night while I was finalizing the music box plans I discovered an easy way to make a story stick on the virtual lathe that is actually a full size 3D cross section.

The following instructions assumes that you have read the book "Woodturning with SketchUp" available on turnedoutright.

To review, one of the useful things to do after you competed your computer design is to print a full scale drawing of the turning. This story stick allows you can take measurements directly with your caliper. I don't like to have to do math when I'm standing in front of the lathe, no not even multiplying by 2x :)

Normally I print a cross section view (requires that I multiply measurements by 2x) or a 3D view (doesn't show internal dimensions) and go to the shop.

Better approach:

• After drawing the cross section make a copy to the right of your original and render it in 3D, all on the "grid background".





• Then click on the cross section tool [Menu: tools/section plane] and drag it to the "Grid Background" plane and click on an intersection of the grid lines. This will put the crossection on the same plane as the grid and therefore it will show up on your story stick.
  
• SketchUp will slice the rendered pieces at the centerline of the lathe showing internal and external dimensions in full scale.
• Print full scale and take to the shop.
• Now all your measurements can be taken directly by setting your caliper to match the drawing.
  

Donnie

New Sketchup Video Links

I have added a couple of really good SketchUp video links under Useful links in the sidebar .
This is a great place to learn, refresh and update your SketchUp Skills.

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• SketchUp Video Tutorials
• The Sketchup Show
  

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Here is the link to the new turnedoutright UTube Channel


Enjoy!