The Gouge, shown in Fig. 9, is the tool of greatest use to the wood-turner. Any piece to be turned is first rapidly dressed to a rough approximation to the desired form by means of the gouge; and most surfaces having compound curves are shaped by its use. In the hands of a skilful wood-turner it may be made to do most of the work done in the lathe. The edge should be a smooth curve of the elliptical form shown, and the bevel should be straight, as it is the guide by which the depth and outline of curves are regulated. The elliptical form is necessary in order that it may be turned in a small space. The handle ought to be long in large sizes, in order to give command of the tool during a heavy cut. The size is determined by the width across the concave side, and varies from a quarter of an inch to three inches by eighths of an inch.

Fig. 9.