Where can I go to find instructional videos at the absolute beginner level? I bought all of the programs, but should a beginner start with Woodturner Pro and then move to the other programs after becoming somewhat proficient in Woodturner Pro? I can see that the programs are quite sophisticated, but I need a series of videos that start at the beginner level and build from there.
Hi Dennis: Good question. First, a bit of background on the software.
-3DDesignPro (3DDP) is used to design wall profiles that can be imported into WTP.
- Lamination Pro (LP) is used to design creative designs for use in either WTP or SP.
- WoodTurnerPro (WTP) was Lloyd's first software for designing segmented vessels. It gives full control of each ring.
- Segment Pro (SP) is Lloyd's latest software. It is rules based. As such, it limits what you can do to each ring, but simplifies the design process.
Think of WTP or SP as replacing graph paper. We use to draw a vessel wall profile on paper. Mark thickness of the rings, make measurements of diameter, do calculations for each ring. The programs eliminate doing the math. If you want to make it change in the design it recalculates the rings for you and produces a new summary cut list.
3DDP works with WTP. You would create your wall profile or use one of the provided designs and import the design into WTP. You do that starting 3DDP and WTP on your pc. Both programs have to be up and running.
As far as where to start in segment turning. I would recommend a couple of books. Malcolm Tibbits "The Art of Segmented Wood Turning", Ray Allen "Wood Turning with Ray Allen", and James Rodgers "The Fundamentals of Segment Woodturning" are three I have used. They all cover the basic design process. There are others you can do a search on segmented books.
WTP has a help section that covers the basic of designs. Here is one site that explains a simple design process.
Turning a Segmented Bowl: This is my instructable for turning a segmented wooden bowl. I made this one with salvaged wood from old projects and furniture. It uses cherry and maple for the contrast, but you can use almost any hardwoods. I've found that it helps to pick one…
www.instructables.com
You can do a search of planning a segmented bowl. There are numerous videos showing how to plan a vessel.
Review Lloyds videos. Some of the videos on WTP have functions that are not supported in the newer versions. Grid overlay for one.
SP is great for those who want to produce a design with the least amount time spent. Pick a profile, determine height and it is done.
WTP is great for those who want to build a vessel design ring by ring. It gives you full control to modify and change designs.
Join a wood club. Finding someone who does segment bowls and is willing to mentor is a great way to learn.
Last but not least, ask your questions on this forum. There are turners here who can help you out.
