Skew Types: Rectangular vs. oval vs. round

Occasionally, I get asked about the difference between an oval skew and a rectangular (a.k.a. flat) skew. Each type of skew has its proponents, sometimes even to the point of disparaging the other, while other turners find little difference between the two. Then there is the lesser known round skew. Where does that fit in?

My goal in this video is to take an unbiased look at skews with different cross sections, and how they behave differently in use. That way you can decide for yourself what type of skew—or skews—are best for you.

[billtiffin]

As a new wood turner I appreciate Brian's instructional style and his comprehensive collection of videos on turning chisels I'm saddened to learn in the comments that there will be no new videos
Thank you for keeping these videos up

[alessandroavir]

The quality and clarity of your instruction is unparalleled

[scottstubberud]

I know this was done 8 years ago but what fantastic information presented clearly and succinctly! Love it. I’m going out to make a small round skew right now!! Just the term fulcrum cemented the concept of the susceptibility a tool has for catching for me. It’s like a teeter totter, too much weight to the wrong side of the fulcrum, boom, catch! I’m teaching wood turning in Durango Colorado very soon and this concept of fulcrums will make it easier for people to grasp vs my description, which was saying the same thing but this just nails the concept more effectively! Love it!

[deanmiller]

I learned more about using the skew after you thoroughly described fulcrum. Thanks.

[DanaOredson]

Eye opening! This certainly helps demystify some catch scenarios.

[DanielVilarino]

Hi Brian! Thank you for a very instructional video. One thing that you could also mention when comparing rectangular, oval and round skews is how easy or difficult may be to sharpen them. It seems to me that sharpening a rectangular one is a breeze, while sharpening the oval and round ones could be troublesome because of the point of contact on the platform for sharpening. Just a thought! Cheers! Daniel

[stephenmcfadyen]

Brian, thank you for this information I have been following your series of Videos for some time, I am a relatively new turner when it comes to using a skew and you have demystified the differences. Like a lot of new turners I hated my skew because I was not sure how to present it, after watching your tutorials I am now much more comfortable with it.
Keep them coming.

[krzysztofczaja]

You do fantastic demonstrations. I love to learn from you. Thank you!

[missteeturns]

Now I understand about the fulcrum. Nobody has explained it to me before. Thank you for this video.

[jairobertonidearaujo]

Hello .. I have been researching for some time about working in wood, mainly around wood, so I have seen a lot of videos about it. You are congratulated for the chosen path and the didactics .. you won one more subscriber and received a like with Brazilian Hugs sorry for the horrible english .

[mikecourteau]

You are a very good teacher Brian. Keep it up.

[xerxespamplemousse]

Very informative video. Now I want all three types of skews.

[dawatson]

Finally .... I’ve seen/ heard a great comparison of these profiles. Thanks, Brian.

[ГригорийГанжа]

Many thanks, I'm very glad that I got to your channel. The detail with which you all comment, helps me to master the turning of the tree. Good luck, to you, and success. I subscribed to the channel and I hope that these lessons will help me to master a good turning technique.

[Lee-qpgf]

Fantastic explanation on the principals of these different skews.
thanks for your time.
Cheers

[JimG]

Brian,
Great information in the video.
Thanks for sharing,
Jim

[keithkelley]

Thank's Brian, I keep practicing a little at a time with the skew and your demos are very helpful.

[WoodworkingDaddy]

As an occasional lathe user I've struggled with the skew's learning curve, This helps a lot. Thanks

[gordroberts]

Thanks Brian, this was exactly what I needed to understand my oval (and only at this point) skew. Cheers, Gord

[lonniedupont]

Wow. Just watched this playlist and learned alot.
Thanks