Wood Turning Christmas Ornament: Ball and Icicle (6)

Now another icicle and cap are waiting for the ball to make an ornament. I tend to make these in small batches and hold them for turning the balls.

To turn the ball I start with a 2 1/4" x 2 1/4" square about 1 1/2" to 2" thick. In this case it is pin cherry which should contrast well with the maple. With it is a holding jig for the chuck. In this case simply some scrap maple turned round and a tenon on it for the chuck.

The other face is flattened or given a very slight recess.

I use hot glue to fasten the waste block to the ball blank but thick CA could be used as well.

The block is mounted in the chuck and the tail stock is moved up for extra support.

The blank is rounded down to between 2 1/8" and 2 1/4". I use a 1/4" Oland but your tool choice is your own.