Turning blocks, the dimensions.

In the industry, blocks of wood for turning (also called blanks or billets) do not have a universal and strict manufacturing standard, but they do follow popular formats. The dimensions vary depending on the type of project (pens, bowls, or spindles).

Here are the most common formats, often sold by specialist shops:

For pens and small items

• Dimensions: 3/4" x 3/4", 1" x 1", 1 1/2" x 1 1/2" and 2" × 2" (approx. 19 × 19 mm to 50 × 50 mm).

• Length: 5" to 12" (approx. 12.5 cm to 30 cm).

For spindles, furniture legs and handles

• Dimensions: 2" × 2", 3" × 3", or 4" × 4".

• Length: 12", 18", or 24" (approx. 30 cm to 60 cm).

• Analogy: These long blocks are like perfectly squared pieces of wood, ready to be shaped lengthwise (like the rungs of a chair).

For bowls and plates (Bowl blanks)

• Shape: Often square or roughly round (the latter are called "circular cuts").

• Dimensions: From 6" × 6" up to 12" and more.

• Thickness: 2" to 4" (approx. 5 cm to 10 cm).

• Analogy: These wide, short blocks are like wooden "slabs" designed to carve hollow containers.

Important technical information:

• Cutting tolerance: The industry often uses rough blocks with a tolerance of 1/16" to 1/4"

  This allows the lathe operator to machine the part without running out of material.

• Protection: Quality woodturning blocks are often kiln-dried and their ends are coated with wax to prevent cracking (splits due to drying).