I just finished my first project on the lathe. I had some walnut laying around so I cut a blank and started turning. I wanted to make a bigger box but I had several "tenon" problems. I think I had to cut at least 5 or maybe 6 (if you include creating a sort of jam chuck) by the end. I learned a lot and now my tools are super dull; I'm supposed to meet with a turner tomorrow and learn about sharpening. Just in time for my next project. So I used walnut which i think looks a little spalted. I sanded up through 400 using a beeswax/mineral oil finish and then buffed with 0000 steel wool.IMG_1167.jpgIMG_1168.jpgIMG_1169.jpgIMG_1170.jpgIMG_1175.jpg