FAQ

Hollowing Tools and Tips

I want to buy hollowing tools, do you recommend the high speed steel tips or carbide tips?

I primarily use the HSS tools.  There are advantages and disadvantages to both. The reason I like the HSS is that they work better in a greater variety of materials, where the carbide tools can be a little too aggressive in some of the harder, drier woods.  The advantage to the carbide is you don’t have to sharpen them and they can get a cleaner cut in some materials. The carbide, however are very fragile and chip easily if mishandled. Watch this short video for a little more info on the pros and cons:

How deep can the 1/2”, 5/8”,  3/4” and 1″  hollowing tools hollow? 

The 1/2” Hollowing tools can hollow approximately 6” deep. The 5/8” Hollowing tools can hollow approximately 8” deep, the 3/4” Hollowing tools can hollow approximately 12” deep and the 1″ Hollowing tools can hollow approximately 14″ deep.

What size hollowing tools should I get? 

It is hard to say, if I were to suggest a set of tools to get started with it would be the  5/8” Hollowing Tools. With these tools I can make forms up to about 8″ deep, but can also easily work on smaller forms. However, it really depends on what type of forms you are planning on hollowing, how deep you want to be able to go, and what size opening you will have. See above FAQ for more detailed information on the hollowing tools.

I am just getting into hollowing, what should I get? 

This is a tough question to answer. A lot depends on your budget and the size pieces you are looking at creating. Without knowing any of that information my favorite tools are the 5/8” Hollowing tools. They allow you to hollow up to about 8” deep. The 3 piece 5/8” Super Set is a great budget way to get started in the process of hollowing. The Radius Scraper also makes the final finishing process on the inside of the vessel a little easier by smoothing out rough places that might have been created by the other tools. If you wanted to take it the next step up either the 5/8” or 3/4” Stabilizer will give you that extra support and control that speeds up the learning process and makes the process safer and more controllable. The next step would probably be some way to judge the wall thickness such as the Laser Bars or the Trent Bosch Visualizer. 

What is the difference between the Bent and Extreme Bent hollowing tools? 

The bent tool allows you to turn around the shoulder of a normal shaped vessel form. The extreme bent tool allows you to do a flatter type top or an extreme undercut shoulder. 

How are your tips held in?

The HSS tips are glued in using medium viscosity super glue. I have chosen this fool proof method as I dislike small set screws that can easily get filled with shavings and strip out. To learn how to replace these glue in tips refer to the “How do I replace my HSS tip?” question below.

The carbide tips are held in with a screw designed to hold the carbide cutter. They are not compatible with anything you would find at the hardware store, so should you loose one you would need to buy a replacement. They are T9 torx heads. 

How do I sharpen my HSS tip? 

Here is a short YouTube video explaining how to sharpen straight, bent/extreme bent and Radius Scraper tips.

How do I replace my HSS tip?

Here is  a short YouTube video explaining the process.

For those of you who prefer written directions:

To replace your tips when they are worn out, simply take a propane plumbers torch and heat the end of your tool up.  The super glue, holding the tip in, will heat up and expand and actually push the old tip out.  Once the old tip is out let the tool cool, and clean out any excess glue that is left in the tool.  To glue the new tip in, use medium viscosity super glue.  Fill the hole in the tool with the glue.  Gently press the new tip in.  Excess glue will squeeze out.  Make sure the cutter tip is up and facing the right direction.  Wipe any excess glue off and set aside fro the glue to cure for about ten minutes.  Continue turning. 

Is there a video that talks about the Trent Bosch Hollowing tools and process? 

This video provides a little bit of information about my HSS hollowing tools:

For more information check out my new video Revelations in Hollowing: 25 years of Refining the Process available here

What is the difference between the Standard Grind and Negative Rake Grind on Radius Scrapers? 

The negative rake grind can be used at a relatively flat angle, and will have less tenancy to catch and grab in awkward areas inside of your hollow form. It is especially useful in the bottom of end grain forms, as the direct end grain can be difficult especially if you are not paying attention to the tool when it enters that area. When I use the standard grind, I usually rotate the tool at a down angle, to mimic the negative rake angle for forms that the tool is wanting to grab & catch. Both of them work great to smooth out the inside of your form, it is just up to personal preference.


The Stabilizer

Will my other hollowing tools fit into the Stabilizer? 

It depends, but most often the answer is yes! If they are the standard 3/8”, 1/2”, 5/8” or 3/4” tools they should fit. If you would like more information, please contact us

What size hollowing tools can you use in the Stabilizers? 

The 5/8” Stabilizer can accommodate 3/8”, 1/2” and 5/8” tools. The 3/4” Stabilizer can accommodate 1/2”, 5/8” and 3/4” tools. 

Which Stabilizer should I buy?

Watch this short video for an explanation:

It depends on the size of hollow forms you are planning on working on. If the largest you ever plan to do is about 8” deep, then the 5/8” Stabilizer is right for you. However, if you are thinking about larger forms the 3/4” will allow you to go up to 12” deep, as well as smaller.

What is the difference between the Stabilizer and other hollowing rigs out there?

There are a mind numbing number of hollowing systems currently on the market. Each was designed by someone with intentions of making the process better. The things that were important to me when designing the Stabilizer include that I wanted to allow myself to hollow as if I was hollowing by hand, not having the cumbersome apparatus’ that traditionally were hollowing tool systems. This was accomplished by a simple mechanism that is quickly and easily added to any lathe, by just removing the tool rest and inserting the Stabilizer. It literally takes seconds to go from turning with your traditional tool rest to turning with the Stabilizer. One of the benefits that make the Trent Bosch Stabilizer unique is a sea of systems is that you still use the tool handle. We all know when turning with any other woodturning tool that the tool handle gives us the control that we need for the turning process. Without the tool handle, you have no control over that tool. The Stabilizer keeps the tool handle connected to the tool, allowing you that finesse and control that we always desire when working on the lathe. Essentially the Stabilizer does not get in the way of you creating whatever you intend, It just makes the process more friendly, controlled and safe.

Is there a video that explains the use of the Stabilizer? 

For an Overview and Set-up of the Stabilizer watch this YouTube Video:


The Visualizer

What is the Visualizer? 

The Trent Bosch Visualizer is a revolutionary way to hollow. It gives you the ability to see exactly where the tool is inside your vessels, which gives you absolute precision wall thickness. It is designed to quickly attach to either the 3/4” or 5/8” Stabilizer. It can also be adapted to other hollowing systems. Here is a short video explaining more about the Trent Bosch Visualizer. 

Is there a video that talks about the Visualizer and how to use it? 

Here is a short video about the Visualizer on YouTube.

For complete details and information on how to use it check out my new DVD Revelations in Hollowing: 25 years of Refining the Process available here.



Orders

How will my order be shipped? 

Usually we ship either via United States Postal Service Priority Mail or UPS Ground. It really depends on what you order and where we are shipping it to. 

How long will it take for my order be shipped? 

This depends on what you order, and when you order it. We are a small company, but we try to get every order out as soon as possible. Usually within a 1-3 business days your order will ship – if there is a delay we will contact you and let you know.

It should also be noted that if you order a Visualizer the approximate ship time is 4-5 days.

Do you have a store front? 

We do not have a storefront, however if you are in the area (Fort Collins, Colorado) you’re more than welcome to stop by. We do ask that you contact us in advance to make sure we are around.  

Do you ship internationally? 

Yes, we do ship internationally. However, it is difficult for our website to calculate international shipping charges due to the variability in weight, and location the order is being shipped, so after you place your order we will contact you about the additional shipping charges.

Update: As of January 1st, 2021 we are unable to ship to the United Kingdom (UK) due to tax (VAT) requirements imposed by the country. We are working on figuring out the best solution so we can continue to fulfill orders to our UK customers. We apologize for the inconvenience while we work through the details.

Please note: you will be responsible for any customs fees, taxes, etc. that your country charges. We have no way of knowing what these charges would be.

I live in Colorado, can I pick up my order?

Yes, you can note that you would like to pick them up on your order and we will email you when it is ready to pick up. If you already paid shipping online, we will refund it when you pick your order up. Like all Colorado orders tax is charged.  

What is the shipping cost?

We currently have table rate shipping costs for US orders, the layout is below:

$1-$49 = $8 shipping

$50-$99 = $12 shipping

$100-$199 = $16 shipping

$200-$299 = $20 shipping

$300 and over = $24 shipping

Please keep in mind that our tools weigh a lot and we take pride in packaging the well to get to you safely, however if you feel that you are being charged too much for shipping let us know.

International orders will be charged according to actual cost. See other FAQ above for more information.

What is the return policy? 

If you are not satisfied with our products you can return them un-used for a full refund minus shipping. However, we are always more than happy to address any of your questions or concerns so don’t hesitate to contact us.  

Do you offer coupons or discounts?

While our website does have a “coupon code/gift certificate” box when you check out, we do not offer coupons or discounts. We keep our prices as low as possible all the time, for everyone. The “coupon code” box is only for redeeming gift certificates. 


Workshops

What is the difference between a 3 day workshop and a 4 day workshop? 

The 3 day workshop covers all the processes that you go through in making bowls, platters, hollow forms, etc. The 4 day workshop gives you more time to focus on the processes learned and explore your own creative endeavors. That is not to say that you cannot do that in the 3 day workshop but it just gives you a little extra time to explore those with the extra day.

What topics does the workshop cover?

This information can be found here. Scroll down the page and click on “Bosch Class Syllabus”.

How many people are in each workshop? 

There is a limit of 6 people per workshop. 

What kind of lathes are in your shop? 

I currently have 7 fully equipped Robust American Beauty Lathes – one for each participant plus one as the demo lathe.

Should I bring my own tools?

What follows is a list of items you may want to bring along (all are optional): Notebook or sketchpad (filled with clippings or sketches of ideas you are interested in exploring), 5/8” or 1/2” bowl gouge, 3/8” spindle gouge, hollowing turning tools, any tool that may be giving you trouble, a few pieces that you have turned – some you like and some you don’t (actual pieces or slides are fine), anything else you deem appropriate.


Robust Lathes

Why Robust?

I have a lot of lathes in my shop and my Robust American Beauty is my favorite, not because I make anything different on it than I would on any of the other lathes, but because of how enjoyable it is to use.  The design is so well thought out it just makes it more fun to turn with and at this stage in my woodturning that is really important to me.  I am proud to be a Robust distributor because I really believe in the product.

If you are interested in learning more or purchasing a Robust Lathe feel free to contact me.  

Can I buy a Robust from you? 

Absolutely, I am a Robust Dealer and distribute all of their tools including their lathes. A step by step outline of the process is listed below.

1. First and foremost, I like to let people know that when I am helping them with a lathe purchase – it is not about selling them a lathe, it is about figuring out what is best for their situation. I discuss the pros and cons of all of the different machines on the market and let the customer decide which suits their needs.

2. If they decide on a Robust, we start looking at the specific models in the Robust line. Again, discuss the pros and cons and accessories that might be helpful with their process.

3. We then put together a quote, get estimates on shipping/freight and discuss any special needs that might need to be met in the shipping of the machine. When everyone is satisfied we submit the order to Robust and they take it from there.

4. Robust will call you (usually Deb) to make sure the order is correct and get a 50% deposit on the purchase price of your lathe. All financial transactions go directly through Robust.

5. The time to build your specific lathe varies depending on how busy they are. It is usually 6-12 weeks from the time we place the order to the time it ships. Once it is ready to ship you will get another call and the final payment can be taken care of.

6. When receiving your new lathe the freight company usually contacts you to schedule delivery – making sure someone is around. If you do not have a way to unload, the freight company uses a lift gate on their semi-truck to get it on the ground. Most of the time if you ask the driver can bring it, using their pallet jack, closer to its final location.

7. Once you get it set up and running both Trent and Robust are here to answer any questions and help you with the use of your brand new toy. Now it is up to you to create. 


About Us

Where are you located? 

We are located in Fort Collins, Colorado.  

Where are Trent Bosch tools made? 

All of our mechanical products are 100% designed, engineered and manufactured in house. The exception is some electronic components for the Visualizers are sourced from reputable suppliers.

 


Misc. Questions

Can I get a gift certificate?

Yes, we do offer gift certificates in any amount you wish. Find them here

My question is not listed here, how can I contact you? 

Trent Bosch Studios Inc.

10520 North County Road 17

Fort Collins, Colorado 80524

Phone: (970) 218-6453

Email: info@trentbosch.com

Website: www.trentboschtools.com and www.trentbosch.com 

Do you have a Facebook page? 

Yes, we do! And when we can we update it with pertinent and interesting information. Like us here.  

Ever wonder what Trent does in his spare time?