Page 1 of 1

Files

Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2017 1:31 pm
by BriarShrink
I'm looking to get some more files for shaping. I have some random ones, but looking for what would work best. Suggestions? Pics greatly appreciated too.

Best, Tom

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N910A using Tapatalk

Re: Files

Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2017 1:37 pm
by LatakiaLover

Re: Files

Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2017 2:07 pm
by sandahlpipe
You need a pillar file with a flat edge for stem work. I use a 00 cut for that. I also keep a 0 and 2 cut pillar file close at hand. I can go from 2 right to 320 or 400 grit most of the time. Also, a round file in a 0 and 2. Pippin and crossing files come in handy for a few odd cases like curves.

I also have a few other random files that I've modified in one way or another to suit specific purposes.

Otto Frei is a good source. Also, stewmac sells a nut seating file that works great for the button.

Re: Files

Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2017 4:11 pm
by BriarShrink
Thanks so much Jeremiah and LatakiaLover!

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N910A using Tapatalk

Re: Files

Posted: Sat Jun 24, 2017 10:50 am
by PremalChheda
Aluminum or vulcrylic file for shaping stems and stummel. Fine single cut to remove previous file marks.

Re: Files

Posted: Sat Jun 24, 2017 11:04 am
by BriarShrink
Thanks Premal. Anyone use microplanes?

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N910A using Tapatalk

Re: Files

Posted: Sat Jun 24, 2017 9:47 pm
by LatakiaLover
BriarShrink wrote:Thanks Premal. Anyone use microplanes?
Nifty for wood, but they don't work on vulcanite or acrylic.

If you can't afford good files use contact cement to glue 80/100/120 grit cloth-backed paper to assorted lengths and shapes of shim stock (a package of 50 is a couple bucks in any hardware store). The paper will last longer and work better with a 1mm or 2mm layer of mouse pad material sandwiched between the paper and the wood. In short, for about $20 you can have a coffee can stuffed with "home made" files.

Re: Files

Posted: Sat Jun 24, 2017 10:10 pm
by BriarShrink
Cool.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N910A using Tapatalk

Re: Files

Posted: Sun Jun 25, 2017 10:16 am
by DocAitch
Second on Otto Frei and the nut file from Stew Mac. The general file set from Stew Mac didn't last very long, can't recommend it.
A round file and coarse pippin are useful at the transition between bowl and stem
I like an 0 cut pippin (6-8") for stem sculpting, and my most used wood shaping file is a 10" half round 0 cut from Otto Frei ( which I use after the French wheel). I use this on large surfaces like those final tweaks on bowl thickness or shank lines.
I also use a fine cut flat bastard from Nicholson for thinning the bit area and pre shaping behind the button, before the nut file and the pillar work.
DocAitch