How do I Turn Wood Urns?

A lathe can be used to create objects out of many different types of materials.

Wooden urns can be used as decoration or as vessels to store the ashes of loved ones. Turning wooden urns involves a lathe and some creativity. The shape and size of the wooden urn will depend on the shape and size of the wood you choose to create the vessel.

Things You'll Need

• Wood
• Lathe
• Saw
• Hammer
• Chisel
• Sandpaper

Instructions

1. Place a piece of wood onto a lathe and start the turning process. The lathe is equipped with two prods or screws that you insert into the top and bottom of the piece of wood and secure tightly. Use the lathe's cutting tool to whittle away excess wood. As the lathe turns you will be able to create a rounded object by applying pressure to the cutting tool against the wood, moving the cutting tool from side to side.

2. Remove the shaped wood from the lathe. The shaped wood will have excess wood on the top and bottom due to the placement of the prods or screws. Cut excess wood away from the top and bottom of the round shape, using a saw.

3. Hollow out the urn. Chisel away the wood from the top of the urn, leaving a sturdy edge around the top. Use a hammer and chisel.

4. Sand the outside of the urn with sandpaper.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider painting the urn or applying wood finish to give the urn a more finished look.

References

• WoodPetUrns.com: Creating Pet Urns
• The Millers's Shop: Wood Turning