This project was created by Drew Fisher, who demonstrates how to build a stunning skeleton bowl without using a lathe. For more woodworking inspiration, be sure to check out his YouTube channel, Fisher’s Shop, and subscribe.
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A Unique Approach to Bowl Making
Creating a bowl might seem like a straightforward process, but Drew takes an entirely different approach. Instead of turning a solid block on a lathe, he constructs the bowl from multiple individual pieces. The result is a visually striking skeleton bowl that serves as both a functional container and a conversation piece.
This design allows for a unique layering effect, showcasing both negative space and the natural beauty of the wood. It’s an excellent example of how traditional woodworking can blend with modern techniques to create something truly original.
Selecting and Preparing the Wood
The build begins with a walnut slab, chosen for its character and rich grain pattern. While the piece has natural imperfections such as knots and cracks, Drew sees potential beyond its flaws. By cutting it down strategically, he is able to extract high-quality sections for the bowl.
To prepare the material, he uses a track saw to make multiple shallow passes, gradually increasing the depth until the section is fully separated. Once the wood is cut down, it is placed on a sled and planed to create a flat reference surface. This ensures accuracy in later steps when squaring the edges and resawing it into smaller boards.
Carving the Bowl with CNC Precision
Once the wood is milled and cut into usable sections, Drew glues the pieces together to form stable panels. These panels will later be carved into precise shapes using a CNC machine. With the design created in Fusion 360, the G-Code is exported into Easel software, allowing for a seamless transfer to the CNC.
The first piece cut is the top ring of the bowl, which features pre-drilled holes for reinforcement dowels. The CNC allows for an incredibly precise and repeatable process, making it easy to replicate the same design multiple times. While the machine does the heavy lifting, Drew makes use of the downtime by organizing his shop and reflecting on upcoming projects.
Designing and Cutting the Ribs
One of the standout features of this bowl is its skeletal structure, which is created using individual rib-like pieces. To maximize efficiency, Drew carefully nests the rib sections within the walnut panels, minimizing waste while maintaining aesthetic balance.
Each rib is cut to precise dimensions using templates, ensuring consistency throughout the design. The contrast between the dark walnut and the light sapwood adds to the visual appeal, creating a dynamic interplay of tones.
Sanding and Assembly
With all the pieces cut, Drew rounds over the edges of the top ring and each rib to soften their appearance. Since these areas will be difficult to reach after assembly, he takes extra care in sanding every surface to a smooth finish.
Instead of using clamps, he relies on the tight-fitting design of the joints to hold everything in place. The ribs are carefully slotted into their designated positions, creating a uniform and symmetrical bowl structure. The combination of precision cutting and careful assembly ensures that the final piece is strong and well-balanced.
Making Custom Dowels for Added Strength
To reinforce the structure, Drew opts to create his own wooden dowels rather than using store-bought alternatives. This allows him to control the wood type and ensure a perfect fit for the project.
Starting with square stock, he shapes the dowels using a drill and a dowel-making jig. Once completed, the dowels are glued into place and trimmed flush with the top ring. This additional reinforcement enhances both the durability and aesthetic of the finished bowl.
The Final Touches and Finishing
With all components in place, Drew uses a random orbital sander to refine the top surface, blending the dowels seamlessly into the design. Any rough edges or protrusions from the ribs are carefully trimmed using a rotary tool, ensuring a polished and cohesive look.
The final sanding process highlights the contrast between the dark walnut and the lighter dowels, further enhancing the skeleton effect. This meticulous attention to detail gives the bowl a refined appearance, making it a true centerpiece.
Exploring Traditional Techniques
For those who may not have access to CNC technology, Drew takes on the challenge of building a second skeleton bowl using only traditional woodworking tools. While this approach is more labor-intensive, it showcases the versatility of the design and proves that complex forms can be achieved without advanced machinery.
Using precise cuts and shaping techniques, he demonstrates how patience and skill can produce results comparable to CNC work. This variation of the project is a great reminder that woodworking is not about the tools—it’s about creativity and problem-solving.
A One-of-a-Kind Build
Drew’s skeleton bowl is more than just a woodworking project; it’s a fusion of modern design and timeless craftsmanship. By utilizing both CNC and hand-cutting techniques, he proves that there are multiple ways to achieve a high-quality final product.
For those inspired to take on a similar project, Drew offers detailed plans and templates on his website. Whether using digital tools or traditional methods, this build provides a rewarding challenge for any woodworker.