Wooden handles are used in tools due to their ability to provide a good grip when holding the tool. Unlike many other types of handles; The wooden handles are easy to grip, do not transfer heat and are not electrically conductive. So making a good handle from a piece of wood that probably means nothing to society, but is safe for the environment and, when no longer useful, is easily thrown away.
In order to turn a wooden handle, one must ensure that they have all the necessary tools for turning wood. This helps them to make the mangoes very easily and efficiently. Key requirements in the handle manufacturing process include a wood lathe, roughing gouge, spindle gouge, and feeler gauge. The material requirements are; a 2″ square hardwood, about 12 to 20″ long, a 1″ long ferrule that can be made from 1 to 1 ΒΌ” diameter copper, brass, or stainless steel tubing.
To start your handle turning project, you need to locate the center of each end of the square of wood so it can be mounted between the spur drive and the live center. Use a center punch to mark the centers; this will help you mount the wood at right angles. Be sure to leave at least 1″ of extra length on each end. Tendons can be cut after the handle is finished. You are now ready to begin turning the handle, for your safety and health make sure you have your protective gear on. , most importantly, the face mask.
Turn on the wood lathe and start rounding the wood with the roughing gouge. The ferrule prevents the handle from breaking with use, so it is important that the ferrule fits snugly. Use the calipers to measure the diameter (inside) of the ferrule and make the end of the handle the same diameter. At some point you will need to drill a hole in the handle to insert the shank of the tool into. This should also be a tight fit. Use epoxy to glue the spigot into the handle and place the ferrule over the end of the handle securing the metal insert. If the handle is inserted into a tool such as a hammer or mallet, the fit should be tight, but not tight enough to split the wood.
With the round handle and attachment point finished, finish off the remaining section with whatever design you like. Shape the handle to fit your hand and use small raised shapes above and below where you would hold the handle; this will help you grip the handle. After shaping and sanding the handle, apply a coat of mineral oil. Mineral oil protects the wood and allows for a good grip, varnish can be slippery and will become sticky with heavy use.