How to Cut Tree Cross Sections for Wood Turning

Place a fresh log on the ground and, with a piece of chalk, mark a horizontal line on each end along the bark, defining where the chainsaw will cut off excess wood. Try to find the longest, straightest piece of the log for your project.

Place scrap lumber or smaller log pieces under the log to raise it from the ground. Cut along the chalk marks with the chainsaw, creating as flat an end piece as possible.

Place the log on end and, with the chalk, mark a straight line across the diameter of the log intersecting the pith, or center. Then measure parallel lines about 1 inch on each side of the pith. You should now have three parallel chalk lines across the end of the log.

Raise the log from the ground by using scrap lumber or small pieces of waste log. This will ensure that your chainsaw does not bite into the ground as it finishes the cut.

Cut along the two outside lines down the length of the log with the chainsaw. Keep the cut as straight as possible, creating a flat surface, which will be critical for mounting on the lathe.

Adjust the log after removing the cut piece and repeat the previous step following the other outside chalk line.

Lay the cut halves of the log face up and, with a compass, mark a rough circle the diameter of the project you wish to turn.

Wedge the log half, face up, between scrap wood and, with the chainsaw, cut corners off of the log around the circle until you have a circular shape, creating a rough blank for your project.

Knock the bark off of the back of your rough blank with a mallet and chisel.

Mark the center of the face of your rough blank with a chalk mark, then mount your lathe's drive plate at the center mark. You are now ready to mount your rough blank and begin turning your project.