Wood Turning DIY: Finish Turning a Round Cottonwood plate or Platter

After roughing out a bowl blank, the wood needs to be dried before it can be finish turned on a lathe. Drying the wood slowly and evenly is essential to prevent cracks and warping. The bowl blank is usually placed in a dry and well-ventilated area and allowed to air dry for several weeks or months, depending on the thickness of the wood and the humidity levels in the environment. Once the wood is dry, it can be finish turned on the lathe, which involves using various cutting tools to shape the bowl to its final form and size. The wood turner may use sandpaper or other finishing techniques to smooth out the surface of the bowl and bring out the natural beauty of the wood grain. Finally, a protective finish, such as oil or wax, can be applied to the bowl to protect it and enhance its appearance. The end result is a beautiful and functional piece of art that can be used for serving or decoration.