I am a newbie to rod building, I am in the middle of just my second build now. But being that I do enjoy it I want to do several more. And being the tool junky that I am, I just purchased a new wood lathe from Acid Rod on the left over there. Here's my question, I have never used a wood lathe before, is there a book or video or two you guys can recommend that would give me some good detail for turning grips and reel seats and such. I have seen some posts that Billy V. is thinking of doing one of these, I would love to add that to my collection and set it next to his decorative wraps book that I already own. Oh, and Billy,if you read this I loved the rose rod you did for your mom. I am thinking of trying to do one something like it on a lighter halibut rod for my mother, with a spiral wrap But I have to learn how to do the grip inlays. and get more practice with my decorative wraps. Pleeeease make that book or video.

Thanks All,
Jeff

Here's a link to a great video on using a wood lathe to create reel seats and grips.

[www.mudhole.com]

Bernie Cohen's article on grip inlays will appear in the Volume 12 #3 issue of RodMaker.

Andy Dear has a great DVD on wood turning for the custom rod builder. It is now owned (I believe by Scott's Custom Rods/RainDancer) and many of the sponsors stock it.

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JEff, thanks. My Mom apprecaites it as well, lol. As Tom stated, he's runnign an article on Bernie's method, which is what I used for several years worth of grips, and it realistically the easiest way for someone to ge involved in those types of inlays. MY methods require a bandsaw, and I'mlearning how to use a scroll saw now for more precise inlays. And'ys video willshow yiou what you need for turning grips & inserts. I'maiming mine more towrds the intricate inlay stuff, which it sounds like you are looking to learn as well. I'm not 100% that I'm going to do the DVD/book thing, but I really would like to and do have some things put together already. I'm better at doing this stuff, than writing about it.

You don't give yourself enough credit, Billy! You do a great job of explaining and teaching. In one day in Chicago, I saw quite a few builders shaking their heads and saying "DUH", so that's how it's done! You have a very down to earth, non technical style that makes learning easy!! I'd aurtomatically buy any book or DVD that you do just because I know that I would understand it!!!

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

I SECOND THE MOTION

jeff, as far as the lathe is concerned i recommend finding a local woodworking shop and/or woodturning club. become friends with a turner. you will learn more in person from an experienced turner in one day than you can learn in a month by yourself. the lathe is great fun and is a craft unto itself. get started and turn everthing you can. nothing beats time on the lathe. good luck