How to Make a Dovetail Bowl

Dovetail bowls feature two pieces of wood -- each a different type -- that fit together like a puzzle in the center. Dovetail bowls are made using a lathe and a dovetail jig. Once completed, the complementary pieces are glued together and sealed to make the solid bowl.

Dovetail jig
Wood block
Wood glue
Clamp
Lathe
220-grit sandpaper
Food-grade varnish or mineral oil

Instructions

- 1
  Set up your dovetail jig for the first piece of wood. Run the wood through the jig to form the dovetail notches.
- 2
  Reset the jig for the complementary side and run the other piece of wood through the jig.
- 3
  Apply wood glue to the two pieces and slide them together. Wipe away any excess glue and clamp the two pieces together. Let the pieces dry for 24 hours.
- 4
  Set the wood block onto your lathe and start the rotation.
- 5
  Gently press into the wood with your carver and shave off layers to form the inside of the bowl.
- 6
  Work around to the side of the block and gently press it again to form the outside.
- 7
  Slow down the rotation and sand the inside and outside of the bowl with 220-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges and cut marks.
- 8
  Coat the bowl with food-grade varnish and allow to dry for 24 hours or soak the wood with mineral oil and allow the bowl to absorb the oil for 24 hours.

How to Restore a Finish to a Darker Color

Do it Yourself Wooden Rocking Chair Seats

Woodworking