There are more Rose Turners working today than ever before.
People are using all the historical styles from 17th century onwards.
What will the 21st century bring?
I actually believe the old idea, that you can produce
any shape you can imagine with a Rose Engine
and Ornamental Turning accessories.
You don't have to do traditional work.
Your imagination is the only limit
(if you can work out how to produce the movements you need to generate the shape).
I hope this website will become a useful resource for beginners,
and Rose Turners who want to get beyond simple Rose patterns.
If you're not a Rose Turner, you may find the information you need in the Basics (some previews are displayed in preview articles, more to come!).
Most of the Technical Information assumes you understand the basic principles.
This website is an independent production, not connected to any turning organisation. It presents my views, and those of contributors, on the craft of rose turning and associated techniques. It is inevitable that a lot of ideas on the site come originally from SOT publications and from conversations with SOT members.
I advise anyone who's seriously interested in rose turning to join the Society of Ornamental Turners. Their primary aim is still to help preserve the old machines and the traditional skills needed to operate them, but members do a lot more. People are using a vast range of equipment and techniques. The Society is keen to encourage the development of the craft. You don't have to be a traditionalist. I've found the Society a wonderful source of information and inspiration, advice and encouragement.
If you're having a go at Rose Turning, remember:
HIGH-SPEED ROTARY CUTTERS ARE DANGEROUS.
READ THE Safety Advice
Do not attempt any of the techniques described, until you understand the dangers, and are satisfied that you are taking adequate safety precautions.
Let me know if you find any errors, or descriptions which aren't clear.
Your contributions are essential. Feedback and questions show me the priorities in developing the site. If you're an experienced turner, you probably agree with some of my ideas, and disagree with others. Let us know your experiences, particularly if you're using different methods. There are lots of ways of producing Rose Turning.
The policy of this site is to provide free, easy downloads of information and ideas, in text and pictures, to help other Rose Turners develop their work. Limited reproduction of material, for non-commercial purposes, is fine, but please credit the source, including the name of the author of material submitted to the site. I assert my moral rights, for any commercial use.
Steve Ellis