How to Turn Table Legs

Mark out the pommel, or the space that is to remain square on the leg, with your square measure and pencil. Create only one line at the shoulder of the pommel, as the spinning leg will clearly show this line. Cut 1 1/8 inches to the right side of the layout marked line with a parting tool. Make the edge clear and precise, with the handle low. Make very light cuts and deepen the cuts gradually as you progress. Cut the left side to reach the layout line.

Turn the leg in the area that is just right of the pommel into a cylinder shape. For rounded shoulders on the leg, turn each corner of the pommel with a half inch detail gouge. Look for the line at the left of the shoulder. This indicated the top of the rounded portion of the leg.

Apply cut pins in a layout board to accurately identify the placement of various elements that exist below the pommel. Place the board securely on the tool rest, then press it into the cylinder that is below the pommel. Use brads or finish nails as your pins, and drive them into the edge of a 3/4-inch-thick board at your main critical points, and clipped off about 1/4 inch from the top.

Measure your critical diameters with a caliper and parting tool. Your calipers should have a rounded edge and must make contact only at the side that is opposite of the cutting tool. Make sure there is NO gap from the wood and the tool rest. Keep your parting tool low, secure under your forearm.

Apply a rotary tool or fine mill file to the ends of the outer calipers, before using it on the spinning table leg. Use 220-grit sand paper to finish the process. Make you detail cuts with a gouge. Turn the pommel and begin your work from the headstock, down to the tailstock to finish the table leg. Keep your eyes on the upper horizon of the wood piece as opposed to the tool, for a controlled turning process.

Use a skew chisel with the long point facing down, to add more contrast and shadow lines. Check the leg every so often, by removing it from the lathe and examining it in a vertical position. Complete the leg with a complete and final sanding.