Guide to Grinding A Wood Gouge
How to grind wood gouges refers to the specific shape and angle of the cutting edge of a gouge, which is a critical factor in its performance and versatility in woodturning. Here’s an overview of wood gouge grinds:
Step-By-Step Guide To Names & Their Grinds
Standard Grind
Shape… The cutting edge is relatively straight across with a slight curve.
Angle… Typically ground to a bevel angle of 45 degrees.
To achieve a Standard Grind…Hold the gouge at a consistent angle against the grinding wheel, rotating it evenly to achieve a straight cutting edge.
Use… General-purpose use, suitable for roughing out and shaping.
Fingernail Grind
Shape… The cutting edge is swept back on both sides, resembling a fingernail.
Angle… The bevel angle ranges from 40 to 55 degrees.
Use…Versatile, ideal for detailed work, cutting curves, and finishing.
Fingernail Grinds… Use a jig to sweep the gouge side to side, creating the desired swept-back wings.
Ellsworth Grind (Irish Grind)
Shape… A more exaggerated version of the fingernail grind with longer swept-back wings.
Angle… The bevel angle is typically around 60 degrees.
Use… Excellent for roughing and finishing, allowing for smoother cuts on interior and exterior surfaces.
Ellsworth Grinds… Use a jig to sweep the gouge side to side, creating the desired swept-back wings.
Traditional Grind
Shape… Features a deeper flute and a more rounded nose.
Angle… The bevel angle is usually around 35 to 45 degrees.
Use… Perfect for creating fine details and finishing cuts.
Summarising How to Grind Wood Gouges
To achieve the perfect shape grind for your gouges, my advice would be to watch as many videos as possible. You will discover the best techniques to use. It’s not a quick fix, it’s a learning curve. It will soon be clear that more than one gouge is needed on your tool rack for each named grind, (mentioned above) much like interchanging chucks and their jaws.
What is the best bench grinder?
Investigation will be needed into what bench grinder or dedicated sharpening system, with appropriate jigs, will best suit you.
A jig which is attached to a bench grinder is a device or tool used to hold, support and guide the gouge in a precise and controlled manner while grinding.
Check out the link below, there are some very informative turners out there.
My Bowl & Spindle Gouges & Grinds
Below are photos of some of my gouges and their grinds. The first photo is of my Bowl Gouge and their grinds and the second photo is of my Roughing Gouge and grinds.
. 
I am forever updating their shapes to resharpen and also to achieve the correct grinds for my projects in hand.
Like most things, the more practice, the more accurate the grinds get. Gouge sharpening hasn’t been easy for me
Second-Hand Gouges & Tools
Second-hand gouges and tools are a great place to start. They are cost-effective and give you breathing space before you move on and buy new more expensive gouges.
If you need help getting started or information on where to look for something specific, do not hesitate to contact me, I’m here to help.
Guide to how to frind wood gouges is my guide to help you on the way to understanding gouges and grinds. I welcome your comments and any suggestions for future blogs. Share your gouge grinding tips in the comments below.
I’m at the end of an email:[email protected]
