Bowl Templates

[Chris Jenkins]

I was wondering if anyone could help point me in the right direction.

I really need a set of bowl templates, at least that is what I am calling them. What I really mean by this is the circles that you use as a template to rough cut the bowl blanks from logs. I would like to get some made out of plastic. Does anyone know if someone makes these? I tried Woodcraft and Lee Valley and didn't see anything. Any suggestions?

I know I could make some out of luan or light ply, but I'm feeling lazy on this one.

Thanks,

Chris

[Jim Becker]

I've only every seen shop-made "circle guides" (my word...)

[Pete Jordan]

I just made mine out of cardboard. I don't have to worry if I nick one.

[Don Orr]

Mine are made from various materials-cardboard, thin plywood, hardboard-whatever I had around (bad pun I know). I made them in 1" increments from 6" up to 12". I need to make some bigger since I got a bigger lathe, which was about 4 years ago:o. I am a master procratinator.:eek:

[Alex Elias]

Here is it http://www.woodturnerscatalog.com/store/Measuring___Layout___Layout_Template___layout_temp late?Args=
I'm lazy too, so I already know where to get when I need it.
Alex

[Glenn Hodges]

Chris, I only use them on natural edge bowl blanks. I have different sizes cut from cardboard. I drew them with the help of a large compass, and they range in sizes from about 10 inches up to about 15 inches. I nail the center of one of these on a bowl blank and go around it with the bandsaw. This saves me from buying anything.

[Bernie Weishapl]

Chris go to your appliance dealer and get a dishwasher box or Refrig box. You can make dozens of them out of that and they are fairly heavy duty.

[Julie Tanner]

I made some out of hardboard. Didn't want to spend the money on something I could actually make.

[Dale Gregory]

I used carryout pizza platters, just ask for few when eating out. I too nail the center and use it as a template. Just stay a 1/4" or so from the edge so you don't ruin it.

[Chris Jenkins]

Thanks for everyone's quick reply's I never thought of using some heavy duty cardboard. I just knew I was going the lazy route by not making a circle jig for the bandsaw. I have access to some good cardboard. I guess I'm gonna have to get my compass and knife out.

Thanks again,

Chris

[Julie Tanner]

LOL

compass and bandsaw